How much does a Bartender make?
A bartender's job involves mixing drinks and serving customers. Bartenders work in bars, restaurants, and hotels. They earn a good salary. The average yearly salary for a bartender is $36,152. This means that most bartenders make between $12,130 and $78,000 each year.
Bartenders can earn more based on their experience and location. Bartenders in big cities often make more than those in small towns. Bartenders with more experience usually earn more than those just starting. Some bartenders also earn tips, which can add to their salary. Bartenders who work in busy bars or during peak hours often earn more tips.
What are the highest paying cities for a Bartender?

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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $56,757
In Dayton, working as a mixologist offers a vibrant nightlife with many local bars and restaurants. Popular spots like the Dayton Brewing Company provide a great environment for skilled bartenders. The city's growing food scene offers plenty of opportunities.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $54,421
Boston's bar scene is lively and dynamic. Bartenders here enjoy working in historic establishments like the Back Bay Bar. The city's diverse culture and large student population create a steady demand for skilled bartenders.
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Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $53,867
Stamford offers a professional bar environment with many upscale venues. Bartenders can work at places like The Brass Elephant. The city's business culture provides a mix of corporate and social events, ensuring a steady flow of customers.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $50,833
Charleston's charm attracts many tourists and locals alike. Bartenders can find work in trendy spots such as the Charleston Grill. The city's laid-back atmosphere and rich history make it a delightful place to work.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $50,500
Vallejo offers a relaxed bar scene with many waterfront venues. Bartenders can enjoy working at places like the Admiral's Landing. The city's growing tech industry adds to the diverse clientele.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $49,953
Washington, DC, has a bustling bar scene with many high-end establishments. Bartenders can work at popular spots like The Hamilton Live. The city's political and social events provide a steady stream of patrons.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $49,389
Worcester offers a friendly bar environment with many local favorites. Bartenders can find work at places like the Worcester Bar & Restaurant. The city's vibrant arts scene adds to the lively atmosphere.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $45,245
Seattle's bar scene is vibrant and diverse. Bartenders can work at trendy spots like the Pike Place Market. The city's love for coffee and craft beer creates a unique and exciting environment.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $44,870
San Francisco offers a dynamic bar scene with many innovative venues. Bartenders can find work at places like the Tonga Room. The city's tech culture and diverse population provide a diverse clientele.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $44,810
Providence has a vibrant bar scene with many historic establishments. Bartenders can work at places like the Federal Hill. The city's rich history and lively atmosphere make it a great place to work.
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What are the best companies a Bartender can work for?

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Sueno
Average Salary: $85,000
Sueno offers exciting opportunities for bartenders. They operate in several locations, including New York and Los Angeles. Their vibrant atmosphere and high-end clientele make it a top choice for bartenders.
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Burtons Grill & Bar
Average Salary: $78,000
Burtons Grill & Bar provides a dynamic environment for bartenders. They have locations in Chicago and Miami. The company values skilled bartenders who can create a lively bar experience.
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Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $75,308
Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group offers competitive salaries for bartenders. They operate in several cities, including Boston and San Francisco. The company emphasizes a professional and elegant bar service.
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Local Bartending School
Average Salary: $72,099
Local Bartending School provides a unique opportunity for bartenders. They have locations in Denver and Seattle. The company focuses on training and development, offering a supportive environment for growth.
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Seoul Kitchen
Average Salary: $71,818
Seoul Kitchen offers a vibrant setting for bartenders. They operate in Los Angeles and New York. The company values creativity and skill, making it a great place for bartenders to shine.
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Clyde's Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $71,733
Clyde's Restaurant Group provides a dynamic environment for bartenders. They have locations in Chicago and Las Vegas. The company emphasizes a fun and energetic bar atmosphere.
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Scratch Restaurants Group
Average Salary: $70,652
Scratch Restaurants Group offers a welcoming environment for bartenders. They operate in several cities, including Philadelphia and Atlanta. The company values teamwork and customer service.
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Legal Sea Foods
Average Salary: $69,333
Legal Sea Foods provides a family-friendly atmosphere for bartenders. They have locations in Boston and Miami. The company emphasizes a friendly and professional bar service.
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Lettuce Entertain You
Average Salary: $68,738
Lettuce Entertain You offers a vibrant setting for bartenders. They operate in Chicago and New York. The company values creativity and skill, making it a great place for bartenders to grow.
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Sterling Culinary Management
Average Salary: $65,000
Sterling Culinary Management provides a professional environment for bartenders. They have locations in several cities, including San Francisco and Denver. The company emphasizes a high-quality bar service.
How to earn more as a Bartender?
A bartender can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. First, mastering a wide range of drinks helps attract more customers. Knowing how to make cocktails, beers, and wines well can make a bartender more valuable. Second, providing excellent customer service makes guests happy and likely to return. Friendly and attentive service can lead to bigger tips. Third, working during peak hours, like weekends and holidays, can increase earnings. Bartenders who are available when more people are out can serve more customers. Fourth, learning to manage bar inventory well can save money. This means ordering drinks efficiently and reducing waste. Finally, gaining experience and certifications can lead to higher-paying jobs. Special skills and qualifications can open up opportunities for better-paying positions.
To boost earnings, bartenders should also consider these factors. First, staying updated on the latest drink trends can make a bartender more attractive to customers. Second, networking with other bartenders and industry professionals can lead to job opportunities. Third, taking on extra responsibilities, like managing events or training new staff, can lead to higher pay. Fourth, promoting the bar on social media can bring in more customers. Lastly, being willing to work in different locations, like restaurants, hotels, or event venues, can increase earning potential. Each of these factors can help a bartender earn more and advance their career.
Here are some ways to increase earnings as a bartender:
- Master a wide range of drinks.
- Provide excellent customer service.
- Work during peak hours.
- Manage bar inventory well.
- Gain experience and certifications.



