How much does a Bar Back make?
A Bar Back is a crucial role in the hospitality industry. They help bartenders and ensure customers have a smooth experience. The average yearly salary for a Bar Back is around $31,486. This includes a mix of different experiences and locations.
The salary for a Bar Back can vary based on several factors. Experience and location often play a big role. In more busy areas, Bar Backs may earn higher wages. Those with more experience can also expect to see better pay. Here is a snapshot of how salaries can spread:
- 10% earn less than $20,227
- 20% earn between $20,227 and $23,205
- 30% earn between $23,205 and $26,182
- 40% earn between $26,182 and $29,159
- 50% earn between $29,159 and $32,136
- 60% earn between $32,136 and $35,114
- 70% earn between $35,114 and $38,091
- 80% earn between $38,091 and $41,068
- 90% earn between $41,068 and $44,045
- 97% earn less than $47,023
- 100% earn less than $50,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Bar Back?
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $45,642
Working in bars in Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment with diverse clientele. Popular spots like The Little Door and The Continental offer great experience. The city’s vibrant nightlife scene provides plenty of opportunities for growth.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $42,447
In Boston, a bar role means being part of a historic and energetic nightlife. Bars like The Back Bay Bar and The Wayfinder serve as excellent places to work. The city's rich history and large student population create a lively atmosphere.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,395
San Jose’s tech-savvy crowd creates a unique bar scene. Working at places like The Dandelion or The Old Town Bar offers interaction with a diverse crowd. The city's growing tech industry adds a modern twist to nightlife.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $37,934
In Washington, DC, bar work combines a busy social scene with a political vibe. Locations like The Red Hen and The Columbia Room provide a chance to meet a wide range of people. The city’s mix of residents and visitors keeps things always interesting.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $35,621
Colorado Springs offers a vibrant nightlife with a laid-back feel. Bars like The Old Pro Bar and Elk Meadow Tavern cater to a mix of locals and visitors. The city’s natural beauty and military presence add unique elements to the bar scene.
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New Haven, CT
Average Salary: $35,528
New Haven provides a cozy, university-town atmosphere with a variety of bars. Working at spots like The Blue Cat and College Pub lets you interact with students and locals alike. The city’s rich history and college culture create a special environment.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $35,050
In Stamford, bar work combines a corporate and a casual setting. Places like The Wright Stuff and The Horsefeathers offer a mix of business and leisure clientele. The city’s proximity to New York City adds a dynamic energy to the bar scene.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $34,868
Chicago’s bar scene is known for its energy and diversity. Working at spots like The Violet Hour and The Hideout provides a chance to experience the city’s unique culture. The city’s rich history and vibrant arts scene enhance the bar experience.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $34,268
Sacramento offers a laid-back atmosphere with a growing bar scene. Working at places like The Citizen Pub and The Capital Bar allows for a mix of casual and social interactions. The city’s blend of urban and suburban life creates a distinctive environment.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $51,806
San Francisco’s bar scene is eclectic and vibrant. Working at spots like The Board Room and The View Lounge offers a chance to interact with a diverse crowd. The city’s progressive culture and tech presence add unique flavors to nightlife.
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What are the best companies a Bar Back can work for?
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Busch Group
Average Salary: $47,450
Busch Group is known for its strong work culture and competitive pay. This company offers Bar Back jobs in various locations, including Virginia, Pennsylvania, and New York. Employees enjoy benefits like health insurance and retirement plans.
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Aramark
Average Salary: $42,101
Aramark provides numerous opportunities for Bar Back roles across the country, particularly in cities like Chicago and Los Angeles. They offer comprehensive benefits and career growth opportunities for their employees.
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FLIK Hospitality Group
Average Salary: $41,258
FLIK Hospitality Group runs several popular restaurants and bars in Texas and Florida. They offer attractive salaries and a supportive work environment. Employees benefit from health insurance and paid time off.
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Topgolf
Average Salary: $39,803
Topgolf has many locations across the US and offers good pay for Bar Back positions. They focus on a fun and dynamic work atmosphere, providing employees with health benefits and career advancement options.
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Eurest
Average Salary: $39,538
Eurest offers Bar Back jobs in various cities, including Boston and San Francisco. They provide competitive salaries and benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans. The company focuses on employee satisfaction and growth.
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Restaurant Associates
Average Salary: $35,802
Restaurant Associates has locations in several states, including California and Florida. They offer attractive salaries for Bar Back roles. The company provides benefits like health insurance and a supportive work environment.
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Marriott International
Average Salary: $32,339
Marriott International offers Bar Back positions in numerous cities, providing competitive salaries. They offer benefits such as health insurance and opportunities for professional development.
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Punch Bowl Social
Average Salary: $31,365
Punch Bowl Social has several locations in California and Washington. They offer good salaries for Bar Back roles, along with benefits like health insurance and paid time off. The company values employee well-being.
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Oak View Group
Average Salary: $29,570
Oak View Group operates in major cities like Los Angeles and New York. They offer Bar Back jobs with competitive salaries. The company provides benefits such as health insurance and career growth opportunities.
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Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel
Average Salary: $28,000
Coeur d'Alene Casino Resort Hotel offers Bar Back positions in Idaho. They provide attractive salaries and benefits like health insurance and retirement plans, making it a good choice for job seekers.
How to earn more as a Bar Back?
Working as a bar back offers many chances to increase earnings. By focusing on specific strategies, anyone can boost their pay and enhance job performance. This section outlines key factors to consider for those aiming to earn more in a bar back role.
Firstly, mastering speed and efficiency can lead to higher tips. Quick refills and prompt service keep bartenders happy and customers satisfied. Building rapport with bartenders also creates a better work environment. Next, developing strong communication skills ensures smooth interactions with both staff and patrons. Clear and polite communication reduces errors and improves service quality. Additionally, staying aware of drink trends and specials helps in suggesting popular options to customers. This knowledge can lead to increased sales and higher tips. Lastly, maintaining a professional attitude and appearance shows dedication. This can open doors to more shifts and possibly a permanent position.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a bar back:
- Master speed and efficiency
- Build rapport with bartenders
- Develop strong communication skills
- Stay aware of drink trends and specials
- Maintain a professional attitude and appearance
