Bartender Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Feb 09, 2025
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How much does a Bartender make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Bartender is $36,111 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, bartenders can look forward to a promising salary range. The average yearly salary for a bartender stands at around $36,111. Many bartenders earn between $30,000 and $75,000, depending on their experience and skills.


A large portion of bartenders, about 69.1%, makes around $30,000 annually. As they gain experience, many see their earnings grow. For instance, bartenders with more experience may earn about $34,091 or $38,182. The potential to make even more exists, with the highest earners bringing home up to $75,000 a year.


Working as a bartender in San Diego not only offers competitive pay but also opens doors to networking and socializing within the vibrant local scene. This role can be a great way to earn a living while connecting with a diverse array of people.

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What are the highest paying cities for Bartender near San Diego, CA?

Bartenders can earn impressive salaries in several cities near San Diego. Rancho Santa Fe offers the highest average salary at $38,273, followed closely by La Jolla at $36,177. Other notable cities include Del Mar and Solana Beach, where bartenders can earn approximately $34,769 and $33,864, respectively.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bartender jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting Rancho Santa Fe, CA with the highest at $38,273 and La Mesa, CA with the lowest at $30,774.
  1. Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    Average Salary: $38,273
    Working in Rancho Santa Fe offers bartenders a chance to serve a wealthy clientele in upscale venues. Local bars and restaurants often seek talented mixologists to create unique drinks that complement the luxurious lifestyle of their patrons.
    Find Bartender jobs in Rancho Santa Fe, CA


  2. La Jolla, CA
    Average Salary: $36,177
    La Jolla boasts beautiful ocean views and a vibrant dining scene. Bartenders here enjoy mixing drinks in high-end restaurants and beachfront bars, catering to both locals and tourists looking for exceptional service.
    Find Bartender jobs in La Jolla, CA


  3. Del Mar, CA
    Average Salary: $34,769
    Del Mar is known for its lively beach atmosphere and famous race track. Bartenders can thrive in seasonal hot spots, serving refreshing cocktails to beachgoers and race enthusiasts in a fun, energetic environment.
    Find Bartender jobs in Del Mar, CA


  4. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $33,864
    In Solana Beach, bartenders work in relaxed beachside venues, offering drinks to a laid-back crowd. The local music scene also brings plenty of opportunities to serve patrons at concerts and outdoor events.
    Find Bartender jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  5. Coronado, CA
    Average Salary: $32,658
    Coronado offers a picturesque beach town vibe, perfect for bartenders who enjoy a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. Working in local hotels and bars, they serve guests with a focus on quality and hospitality.
    Find Bartender jobs in Coronado, CA


  6. National City, CA
    Average Salary: $32,250
    National City has a diverse community, providing bartenders a chance to work with a wide range of clientele. Local bars and restaurants often highlight flavors from different cultures, making the work dynamic and exciting.
    Find Bartender jobs in National City, CA


  7. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $31,690
    Chula Vista is bustling with activity, providing a rich environment for bartenders. Working in busy restaurants and lively bars, they cater to families and friends enjoying a night out in the city.
    Find Bartender jobs in Chula Vista, CA


  8. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $30,774
    La Mesa is known for its friendly community and local breweries. Bartenders here get to showcase craft beers and cocktails, creating a welcoming atmosphere for patrons looking to relax.
    Find Bartender jobs in La Mesa, CA

What are the best paying companies for Bartender in San Diego, CA?

In San Diego, bartenders can find excellent pay at several top companies. Postino WineCafe offers the highest average salary at around $60,950, making it a great option for skilled bartenders. Other companies like Sodexo and the U.S. Marine Corps also provide competitive salaries, with averages of $40,309 and $39,353 respectively.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bartender jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Postino WineCafe with the highest at $60,950 and Herb and Wood with the lowest at $34,467.
  1. Postino WineCafe
    Average Salary: $60,950
    Postino WineCafe offers a vibrant atmosphere for its bartenders. With locations in San Diego, bartenders can enjoy a creative environment and a menu featuring a wide selection of wines and small bites.


  2. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $40,309
    As a major player in food services, Sodexo operates in various venues throughout San Diego. Bartenders at Sodexo work in diverse settings, providing excellent service at numerous events and locations.


  3. U.S. Marine Corps
    Average Salary: $39,353
    Working as a bartender for the U.S. Marine Corps means serving those who serve. Bartenders can find positions at various Marine Corps bases in San Diego, offering unique experiences in a military setting.


  4. City Experiences
    Average Salary: $36,060
    City Experiences operates restaurants and bars near the San Diego waterfront. Bartenders here can expect a lively work environment and the chance to serve guests enjoying stunning views.


  5. Omni Hotels
    Average Salary: $35,100
    Omni Hotels provides a classy atmosphere for bartenders in San Diego. Employees at Omni can work in upscale settings that focus on providing exceptional guest experiences.


  6. Island Hospitality Management
    Average Salary: $35,014
    Island Hospitality Management oversees several hotels in San Diego. Bartenders play a key role in enhancing the guest experience at these properties, known for their warm hospitality.


  7. Dimension Hospitality, LLC
    Average Salary: $34,960
    Dimension Hospitality operates multiple hotels around San Diego. Bartenders here can showcase their skills in various settings and provide service to guests from all walks of life.


  8. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $34,722
    Marriott International is a well-known hotel brand with several locations in San Diego. Bartenders enjoy working in a respected environment and can connect with visitors from around the world.


  9. Boochcraft
    Average Salary: $34,563
    Boochcraft specializes in craft kombucha and offers a unique bartending experience. Working here means engaging with customers interested in innovative drinks at their San Diego location.


  10. Herb and Wood
    Average Salary: $34,467
    Herb and Wood is a high-end restaurant in San Diego that features a chic bar. Bartenders at this establishment craft creative cocktails and contribute to a stylish dining experience.

There are 5,401 Bartender job openings nationwide!

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