Bartender Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Bartender make?

The average salary for a Bartender is $33,513 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Bartender positions, showing an average salary of $33,513 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Bartender positions, showing an average salary of $33,513 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Bartender positions, showing an average salary of $33,513 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Bartender positions, showing an average salary of $33,513 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Bartenders have a rewarding job in the hospitality industry. Many people find working as a bartender to be a great choice. They meet new people every day and often work in lively environments. If you become a bartender, you can expect to earn a decent salary.

The average yearly salary for bartenders is $33,513. This means that the majority of bartenders make somewhere around this amount. Here is a breakdown of how salaries are spread:

10% of bartenders earn less than $19,576.
25% earn between $19,576 and $25,735.
50% earn between $25,735 and $38,051.
75% earn between $38,051 and $50,367.
90% earn less than $56,525.
10% of bartenders earn more than $56,525.

What are the highest paying cities for a Bartender?

Bartenders who seek higher pay can find good opportunities in several U.S. cities. Stamford, Connecticut, leads the pack with an average salary of $50,662. Bartenders in Charleston, South Carolina, earn nearly as much, with an average salary of $49,835. These cities offer not only better pay but also lively nightlife scenes that boost job prospects. Other cities also present solid options for bartenders. Dayton, Ohio, and Seattle, Washington, follow closely with average salaries above $45,000. San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and Providence, Rhode Island, also offer competitive pay. Job seekers will find these cities provide good salaries and numerous opportunities.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bartender jobs, highlighting Stamford, CT with the highest at $50,662 and Boulder, CO with the lowest at $40,770.

Stamford, CT
Average Salary: $50,662
Stamford offers a vibrant nightlife with upscale dining and trendy bars. Work alongside well-known establishments like The Grey Box. Enjoy a mix of local and corporate clientele.
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Charleston, SC
Average Salary: $49,835
Charleston's charm lies in its historic bars and lively social scene. Mix drinks at renowned spots like The Ordinary. Experience a blend of Southern hospitality and modern bar culture.
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Dayton, OH
Average Salary: $48,620
Dayton's bar scene is growing with many unique spots. Work at places like The Alley. Experience a mix of local flavors and a welcoming community.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $46,062
Seattle's diverse nightlife offers something for everyone. Serve drinks at popular venues like Dick's Drive-In. Enjoy a lively atmosphere with a mix of locals and tourists.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $45,249
San Francisco's bar scene is eclectic and dynamic. Work at places like The View Lounge. Experience a vibrant mix of cultures and a unique social setting.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $43,654
Washington, DC has a bustling bar scene with both local and international clientele. Work at spots like The Atlantic Bar. Enjoy a diverse and dynamic social environment.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $43,327
Providence's bar scene is friendly and inviting. Serve drinks at places like The Strand. Experience a mix of local charm and a welcoming community.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $42,714
Los Angeles offers a vibrant and diverse bar scene. Work at trendy spots like The Viper Room. Enjoy a mix of celebrities and a lively social atmosphere.
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Las Cruces, NM
Average Salary: $41,250
Las Cruces has a welcoming bar scene with a mix of locals and students. Work at places like the University Cellars. Experience a relaxed and friendly environment.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $40,770
Boulder's bar scene is laid-back and friendly. Serve drinks at spots like Sly Fox. Enjoy a mix of outdoor enthusiasts and a welcoming community.
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What are the best companies a Bartender can work for?

Bartender jobs offer a chance to earn a good income. The American Legion provides one of the highest salaries at $420,673 annually. Other top-paying companies include With A Twist Event Services and RTS HOLDINGS, L.L.C., offering competitive salaries for skilled bartenders.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bartender jobs, highlighting The American Legion with the highest at $420,673 and Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub with the lowest at $65,000.

The American Legion
Average Salary: $420,673
The American Legion offers competitive salaries for Bartenders. This organization operates nationwide with over 2,300 posts in the United States. Bartenders here enjoy a welcoming environment and opportunities to grow professionally.
With A Twist Event Services
Average Salary: $95,124
With A Twist Event Services values their Bartenders, offering above-average salaries. This company specializes in event management and operates in various locations across the country, providing diverse and engaging work experiences.
RTS HOLDINGS, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $79,257
RTS HOLDINGS, L.L.C. provides good compensation for Bartenders. They focus on event planning and hospitality and are based in several cities. Employees benefit from a dynamic work atmosphere and opportunities to interact with clients.
Let Us Entertain You
Average Salary: $76,141
Let Us Entertain You offers solid salaries for Bartenders. This company provides entertainment services and operates in multiple states. Bartenders here enjoy a lively work environment and the chance to be part of exciting events.
Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group, Inc.
Average Salary: $73,250
Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group, Inc. offers competitive pay for Bartenders. They manage several upscale dining establishments. Bartenders here benefit from a prestigious work setting and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals.
Clyde's Restaurant Group
Average Salary: $68,786
Clyde's Restaurant Group offers good salaries for Bartenders. This group operates multiple restaurants across the country. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment and the chance to be part of a well-established company.
Scratch|Restaurants
Average Salary: $68,205
Scratch|Restaurants provides competitive pay for Bartenders. They run several dining establishments and focus on high-quality service. Bartenders here benefit from a vibrant work atmosphere and opportunities for career advancement.
Legal Sea Foods
Average Salary: $68,074
Legal Sea Foods offers solid compensation for Bartenders. They manage a chain of seafood restaurants across various locations. Bartenders here enjoy a lively work environment and the chance to be part of a well-known brand.
Tom's Watch Bar
Average Salary: $66,195
Tom's Watch Bar offers good salaries for Bartenders. This company operates several bars and restaurants. Employees benefit from a welcoming work environment and the chance to develop their skills.
Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub
Average Salary: $65,000
Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub provides competitive pay for Bartenders. They have multiple locations across several states. Bartenders here enjoy a friendly work atmosphere and the opportunity to interact with a diverse clientele.

How to earn more as a Bartender?

Becoming a skilled bartender offers numerous opportunities to boost earnings. Bartenders can increase their income by developing specific skills and strategies. Mastering a variety of drinks and understanding customer preferences can lead to higher tips and better job opportunities. A friendly and professional demeanor also enhances the dining experience, making patrons more likely to return and recommend the establishment to others.

A bartender can earn more by taking on additional responsibilities and working during peak hours. Many bars offer higher wages for evening and weekend shifts. Offering to help with setup, cleanup, or managing events can lead to higher pay and better job prospects. A willingness to go above and beyond can set a bartender apart from others and lead to more lucrative opportunities.

Here are some key factors to help bartenders earn more:

Learn advanced cocktail techniques
Build rapport with regular customers
Work during peak hours and special events
Take on extra responsibilities
Network within the industry

How much does a Bartender make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Bartender?

What are the best companies a Bartender can work for?

How to earn more as a Bartender?

Currently 6,190 Bartender job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Bartender in the US?

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