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Salary

How much does a Bartender make?

The average salary for a Bartender is $36,023 per year in the US.

A bartender's job involves mixing drinks and serving them to customers. Bartenders work in bars, restaurants, and hotels. They earn a yearly salary that can vary based on experience and location. The average yearly salary for a bartender is around $36,023. This means that many bartenders earn between $11,000 and $78,000 each year.

Bartenders can earn more with tips and bonuses. Bartenders often receive tips from customers. Some bars also offer bonuses for meeting sales goals. Bartenders who work in busy areas or popular bars can make more money. Bartenders can also earn extra money by working extra hours or during busy times.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Bartender?

Bartenders in Dayton, OH, enjoy one of the highest average salaries, with an annual pay of $55,765. Stamford, CT, and Boston, MA, follow closely, offering bartenders around $53,500 and $53,500 respectively. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those seeking lucrative positions in the bartending industry.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bartender jobs, highlighting Dayton, OH with the highest at $55,765 and San Francisco, CA with the lowest at $44,781.
  1. Dayton, OH
    Average Salary: $55,765
    In Dayton, working as a mixologist offers a vibrant nightlife with many local bars and restaurants. Popular spots like The Dayton Brewery and The 9 Bar attract a diverse crowd. The city's growing food scene provides ample opportunities for skilled bartenders.
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  2. Stamford, CT
    Average Salary: $53,503
    Stamford boasts a lively bar scene with many upscale establishments. Bartenders here often work in chic lounges and high-end restaurants. Companies like The Mark Twain Room and The Bar at the Stamford Marriott offer dynamic environments for professionals.
    Find Bartender jobs in Stamford, CT


  3. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $53,498
    Boston's bar scene is rich with history and energy. Bartenders can find work in iconic spots like The Back Bay Bar and The Wayfarer. The city's diverse clientele and vibrant culture make it a great place for mixologists.
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  4. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $51,733
    Vallejo offers a laid-back yet exciting bar scene. Bartenders can enjoy working in waterfront establishments and local pubs. The city's growing arts scene adds a unique flair to the nightlife, making it a fun place for professionals.
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  5. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $50,992
    Charleston's charm extends to its bar scene. Bartenders can work in historic bars and modern lounges. Popular spots like The Charleston Grill and The Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon offer a mix of tradition and innovation.
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  6. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $49,060
    Washington, DC, is a hub for political and social events, creating a dynamic bar scene. Bartenders can find work in trendy bars and high-profile restaurants. The city's diverse population ensures a lively and varied clientele.
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  7. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $47,902
    Worcester offers a welcoming bar scene with many local favorites. Bartenders can work in cozy pubs and vibrant lounges. The city's strong community spirit makes it a great place for professionals to thrive.
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  8. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $45,238
    Seattle's bar scene is known for its creativity and innovation. Bartenders can find work in unique establishments and craft cocktail bars. The city's vibrant culture and love for coffee and craft beer create a dynamic environment.
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  9. Providence, RI
    Average Salary: $45,053
    Providence offers a mix of traditional and modern bar experiences. Bartenders can work in historic taverns and contemporary lounges. The city's rich history and diverse population add depth to the nightlife.
    Find Bartender jobs in Providence, RI


  10. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $44,781
    San Francisco's bar scene is eclectic and vibrant. Bartenders can find work in trendy bars and historic establishments. The city's diverse culture and love for craft cocktails make it an exciting place for professionals.
    Find Bartender jobs in San Francisco, CA

What are the best companies a Bartender can work for?

Sueno leads the pack with an average salary of $85,000 for bartenders. Burtons Grill & Bar and Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group follow closely, offering salaries around $78,000 and $75,000 respectively. These companies provide competitive pay and opportunities for career growth in the bartending industry.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bartender jobs, highlighting Sueno with the highest at $85,000 and The Connor Group with the lowest at $65,000.
  1. Sueno
    Average Salary: $85,000
    Sueno offers exciting opportunities for Bartenders in its vibrant locations. With locations in major cities, Sueno provides a dynamic environment for bartenders to showcase their skills and creativity. Bartenders here enjoy a supportive atmosphere and the chance to work with top-notch clientele.


  2. Burtons Grill & Bar
    Average Salary: $78,000
    Burtons Grill & Bar is known for its warm and inviting ambiance. Bartenders here have the chance to work in various locations, each offering a unique experience. The company values skilled bartenders who can create memorable drinks and provide excellent service to guests.


  3. Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $75,083
    Smith & Wollensky Restaurant Group provides a prestigious setting for bartenders to thrive. With locations across the country, bartenders here enjoy the opportunity to work in upscale environments. The company emphasizes professionalism and a high standard of service.


  4. Local Bartending School
    Average Salary: $71,618
    Local Bartending School offers a unique opportunity for bartenders to work in a training environment. Bartenders here have the chance to teach and mentor aspiring bartenders. Locations are spread across various cities, providing diverse experiences.


  5. Clyde's Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $71,326
    Clyde's Restaurant Group is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse clientele. Bartenders here work in multiple locations, each offering a different vibe. The company values creativity and skill, providing a platform for bartenders to shine.


  6. Scratch Restaurants Group
    Average Salary: $70,507
    Scratch Restaurants Group offers a welcoming environment for bartenders. With locations in various cities, bartenders here enjoy a supportive team and the opportunity to create unique drink menus. The company emphasizes a fun and engaging work atmosphere.


  7. Legal Sea Foods
    Average Salary: $69,333
    Legal Sea Foods provides a family-friendly setting for bartenders. Locations are spread across several cities, offering a variety of experiences. Bartenders here enjoy a friendly environment and the chance to work with a diverse range of customers.


  8. Lettuce Entertain You
    Average Salary: $69,240
    Lettuce Entertain You offers a vibrant and energetic environment for bartenders. With multiple locations, bartenders here enjoy a dynamic work setting. The company values creativity and teamwork, providing a platform for bartenders to excel.


  9. Sterling Culinary Management
    Average Salary: $65,000
    Sterling Culinary Management provides a professional environment for bartenders. Locations are spread across various cities, offering diverse experiences. The company emphasizes skill and service, providing a supportive environment for bartenders to grow.


  10. The Connor Group
    Average Salary: $65,000
    The Connor Group offers a prestigious setting for bartenders. With locations in major cities, bartenders here enjoy a high-end environment. The company values professionalism and skill, providing a platform for bartenders to thrive.

How to earn more as a Bartender?

A bartender's role involves more than just mixing drinks. It requires a blend of skills, dedication, and strategies to earn more. Bartenders can increase their earnings through various means. One key factor is mastering the art of upselling. By recommending premium drinks and pairing them with food items, bartenders can boost their tips and overall income.

Another important factor is gaining experience and building a reputation. Bartenders who work in high-traffic areas or popular establishments often see higher tips. Regular customers who enjoy a bartender's service are more likely to leave generous tips. Bartenders can also increase their earnings by learning to manage a busy bar efficiently. This includes quickly preparing drinks, keeping track of orders, and maintaining a friendly atmosphere. Networking with other bartenders and staying updated on trends can also lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.

Here are some factors to consider for earning more as a bartender:

  1. Master the art of upselling.
  2. Gain experience and build a reputation.
  3. Learn to manage a busy bar efficiently.
  4. Network with other bartenders.
  5. Stay updated on trends and new drink recipes.

Currently 4,639 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.
Position
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Bartender
4,639 Job Openings