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Salary

How much does a Bartender make?

The average salary for a Bartender is $36,361 per year in the US.

Bartenders play a key role in the hospitality industry, serving drinks and creating a lively atmosphere. The average yearly salary for bartenders is around $36,361. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of establishment. Bartenders often earn tips, which can add to their income.

The salary range for bartenders can vary from $14,500 to $78,000. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:

  • 11.23% earn $14,500 to $20,273
  • 12.42% earn $20,273 to $26,045
  • 12.34% earn $26,045 to $31,818
  • 22.49% earn $31,818 to $37,591
  • 11.57% earn $37,591 to $43,364
  • 8.06% earn $43,364 to $49,136
  • 5.35% earn $49,136 to $54,909
  • 5.35% earn $54,909 to $60,682
  • 3.18% earn $60,682 to $66,455
  • 1.80% earn $66,455 to $72,227
  • 1.20% earn $72,227 to $78,000

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What are the highest paying cities for a Bartender?

Bartenders in Dayton, OH, enjoy one of the highest average salaries, making it a prime location for those in the industry. Boston, MA, and Stamford, CT, also offer competitive pay, with average salaries close to Dayton's. Charleston, SC, and Washington, DC, provide attractive opportunities for bartenders seeking higher earnings.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bartender jobs, highlighting Dayton, OH with the highest at $56,975 and Manchester, NH with the lowest at $45,242.
  1. Dayton, OH
    Average Salary: $56,975
    In Dayton, working as a mixologist offers a vibrant nightlife with many popular bars. Companies like the Dayton Bar Company provide excellent opportunities. The city's diverse crowd ensures a dynamic work environment.
    Find Bartender jobs in Dayton, OH


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $54,956
    Boston's bar scene is lively with many historic establishments. Working at places like The Back Bay Bar offers a unique experience. The city's rich culture and large student population create a steady flow of patrons.
    Find Bartender jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $53,915
    Stamford boasts a professional atmosphere with many upscale bars. Working at establishments like The Keg & Cork can be rewarding. The city's business environment provides a steady clientele.
    Find Bartender jobs in Stamford, CT


  4. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $51,467
    Vallejo offers a laid-back vibe with a mix of local and tourist patrons. Bars like The Press Club provide a relaxed setting. The city's waterfront location adds a unique charm to the nightlife.
    Find Bartender jobs in Vallejo, CA


  5. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $50,638
    Worcester has a growing bar scene with many local favorites. Working at spots like The Fenwick can be fulfilling. The city's diverse community ensures a varied and interesting clientele.
    Find Bartender jobs in Worcester, MA


  6. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $50,620
    Charleston's bar scene is vibrant with many historic bars. Working at places like The Ordinary offers a unique experience. The city's tourism and local culture create a lively atmosphere.
    Find Bartender jobs in Charleston, SC


  7. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $50,390
    Washington, DC offers a dynamic bar scene with many high-profile establishments. Working at bars like The Old Ebbitt Grill provides a prestigious experience. The city's political and social scene ensures a steady flow of patrons.
    Find Bartender jobs in Washington, DC


  8. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $46,258
    Providence has a bustling bar scene with many local favorites. Working at spots like The Strand offers a vibrant environment. The city's college presence adds to the lively nightlife.
    Find Bartender jobs in Providence, RI


  9. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $45,322
    Seattle's bar scene is eclectic with many unique establishments. Working at places like The Crocodile can be exciting. The city's diverse culture and coffee-loving population create a dynamic work environment.
    Find Bartender jobs in Seattle, WA


  10. Manchester, NH
    Average Salary: $45,242
    Manchester offers a friendly bar scene with many local spots. Working at places like The Social can be enjoyable. The city's community-focused atmosphere ensures a welcoming work environment.
    Find Bartender jobs in Manchester, NH

What are the best companies a Bartender can work for?

Sueno offers the highest average salary for bartenders at $85,000. Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group follows closely with an average salary of $76,167. Burtons Grill & Bar provides a competitive average salary of $75,143. These companies provide excellent opportunities for bartenders seeking a rewarding career. Bartenders can expect to earn a good income while working in a dynamic environment. Each of these companies values skilled bartenders and offers attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bartender jobs, highlighting Sueno with the highest at $85,000 and Lettuce Entertain You with the lowest at $67,375.
  1. Sueno
    Average Salary: $85,000
    Sueno offers exciting opportunities for bartenders in its vibrant locations. With a focus on creating memorable experiences, Sueno operates in several prime locations. Bartenders here enjoy a dynamic work environment and the chance to interact with a diverse clientele.


  2. Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $76,167
    Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group provides a prestigious setting for bartenders. Known for its high-quality service, the company offers a range of locations where bartenders can hone their skills. Employees benefit from a supportive team and a focus on customer satisfaction.


  3. Burtons Grill & Bar
    Average Salary: $75,143
    Bartenders at Burtons Grill & Bar enjoy a lively atmosphere in its various locations. The company prides itself on creating a fun and engaging environment for both staff and customers. Bartenders here have the opportunity to work in a fast-paced setting with a friendly team.


  4. Local Bartending School
    Average Salary: $74,279
    Local Bartending School offers unique opportunities for bartenders who are also educators. The company operates in several locations, providing a chance to teach and practice bartending skills. Bartenders here benefit from a supportive community and a chance to develop professionally.


  5. Seoul Kitchen
    Average Salary: $71,818
    Seoul Kitchen provides a vibrant setting for bartenders in its multiple locations. The company is known for its innovative menu and lively atmosphere. Bartenders here enjoy a dynamic work environment and the opportunity to interact with a diverse clientele.


  6. Clyde's Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $70,006
    Clyde's Restaurant Group offers a range of opportunities for bartenders in its various locations. The company focuses on providing a high-quality dining experience. Bartenders here benefit from a supportive team and a chance to work in a prestigious setting.


  7. Legal Sea Foods
    Average Salary: $69,613
    Legal Sea Foods provides a welcoming environment for bartenders in its multiple locations. The company is known for its fresh seafood and family-friendly atmosphere. Bartenders here enjoy a supportive team and the chance to work in a well-established company.


  8. Scratch Restaurants Group
    Average Salary: $69,304
    Scratch Restaurants Group offers a dynamic setting for bartenders in its various locations. The company focuses on providing a fresh and innovative dining experience. Bartenders here benefit from a supportive team and the chance to work in a fast-paced environment.


  9. Mina Group
    Average Salary: $68,911
    Mina Group provides a vibrant atmosphere for bartenders in its multiple locations. The company is known for its diverse menu and lively setting. Bartenders here enjoy a supportive team and the opportunity to interact with a diverse clientele.


  10. Lettuce Entertain You
    Average Salary: $67,375
    Lettuce Entertain You offers a range of opportunities for bartenders in its various locations. The company is known for its creative menu and welcoming atmosphere. Bartenders here benefit from a supportive team and the chance to work in a dynamic environment.

How to earn more as a Bartender?

A bartender can increase earnings through several key strategies. First, mastering a wide range of drinks helps attract more customers. Knowing classic cocktails and unique recipes can make a bartender stand out. Second, excellent customer service skills can lead to higher tips. Friendly interactions and remembering regular customers create a loyal following. Third, working during peak hours, such as weekends and holidays, can boost income. Bartenders who are available during busy times often see more tips and sales. Fourth, taking on additional responsibilities, such as managing events or training new staff, can lead to higher pay. These roles often come with bonuses or raises. Finally, networking within the industry can open up higher-paying opportunities. Connections with other bartenders and managers can lead to job offers at upscale venues.

To maximize earnings, consider these factors. Bartenders should focus on improving their drink-making skills and customer service. Working during busy hours and taking on extra duties can also increase income. Networking within the industry can lead to better job opportunities. By implementing these strategies, bartenders can earn more and advance their careers.

Currently 7,204 Bartender job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Bartender does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Bartender today.
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Bartender
7,204 Job Openings