Bartender Salaries

Bartenders enjoy a range of salaries, influenced by experience, location, and the type of establishment where they work. The average yearly salary for a bartender is approximately $38,617.

Entry-level positions start around $16,000, allowing individuals to gain experience and improve their skills. As bartenders advance, they can see their salaries rise significantly. For example, with a few years of experience, salaries can increase to about $27,636.

Many bartenders report earning between $39,273 and $56,727, as they develop their craft and become more efficient. Those working in high-end venues or busy bars often earn over $74,182, especially if tips are included in their income.

This career offers opportunities for growth and rewards those who are dedicated and strive to improve their abilities. With passion and hard work, bartenders can find not just a job, but a fulfilling career.

1. Stamford, CT
   Average Salary: $57,555
   Working in Stamford offers a vibrant atmosphere with a mix of corporate and casual venues. You can find opportunities at top spots like Bar Sugo and The Capital Grille, where creativity and customer service shine.
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2. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $57,144
   In Boston, bartending is an exciting experience filled with rich history and a diverse social scene. Popular establishments such as Island Creek Oyster Bar and Eastern Standard provide a great environment to enhance your skills and connect with locals.
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3. Worcester, MA
   Average Salary: $55,286
   Worcester's growing food and nightlife scene creates a welcoming space for bartenders. You will enjoy working at places like The Boynton and Brew City, where friendly patrons often return for their favorite drinks.
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4. Dayton, OH
   Average Salary: $52,530
   Dayton offers a unique bartending landscape with its mix of craft breweries and trendy cocktail bars. Venues such as The Oregon District and Mega-Bytes Café allow you to express your mixology talents in a friendly community.
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5. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $52,027
   Bartenders in Washington, DC experience a dynamic mix of politics and culture. Upscale locations like The Dubliner and The Hamilton attract an array of clientele, making every shift interesting and full of potential networking.
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6. Springfield, MA
   Average Salary: $49,792
   Springfield's vibrant nightlife provides ample opportunities for bartenders to thrive. Working at places like Max's Tavern and The Student Prince Café, you will serve both locals and visitors in a friendly and diverse atmosphere.
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7. Charleston, SC
   Average Salary: $49,724
   In Charleston, bartending combines charm, hospitality, and creativity. With establishments like The Cocktail Club and Husk, you get to craft unique drinks while welcoming guests to this beautiful coastal city.
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8. Providence, RI
   Average Salary: $47,549
   Providence boasts a rich culinary scene that enhances the bartending experience. Bars like The Dorrance and The Avery provide a lively environment where mixology and great service create memorable nights.
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9. Manchester, NH
   Average Salary: $47,536
   Bartending in Manchester offers a mix of excitement and community spirit. Popular spots like Murphys Taproom and The Foundry allow for personal connections and a fun atmosphere to showcase your skills.
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10. Ann Arbor, MI
    Average Salary: $46,156
    Ann Arbor's vibrant college town vibe creates a lively bartending scene. Working in establishments like The Last Word and Conor O'Neill's, you can connect with students and locals while sharing your passion for great drinks.
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1. Wicked Butcher
   Average Salary: $126,364
   Wicked Butcher offers a dynamic environment for bartenders. Located in Fort Worth, Texas, this restaurant focuses on high-quality service and creative cocktails. Bartenders here enjoy competitive wages and opportunities for growth.
   




2. Sueno
   Average Salary: $85,000
   Sueno operates in Chicago, Illinois, focusing on innovative Mexican cuisine and drinks. Bartenders at Sueno benefit from a vibrant atmosphere and a strong customer base, leading to excellent earnings potential.
   




3. Truluck's
   Average Salary: $79,167
   Truluck's is known for its seafood and stone crab. With locations across the United States, bartenders work in a fast-paced and upscale setting. They enjoy a solid salary while delivering exceptional service.
   




4. Barley Hospitality
   Average Salary: $77,841
   Barley Hospitality operates several venues with a focus on craft beers and creative cocktails. Located in New York, their bartenders play a key role in enhancing the guest experience while earning competitive salaries.
   




5. Nine Mile Station
   Average Salary: $75,000
   Based in Denver, Colorado, Nine Mile Station is a unique beer garden and restaurant. Bartenders here provide a relaxed atmosphere while earning great pay in a popular area.
   




6. E3 Co. Restaurant Group
   Average Salary: $74,833
   E3 Co. Restaurant Group operates multiple locations, offering a variety of dining experiences. Bartenders are crucial to the success of each venue, especially in lively cities like Nashville, Tennessee.
   




7. Prezzo
   Average Salary: $74,245
   Prezzo features a blend of Italian cuisine and an extensive drink menu. With locations across the UK, bartenders provide an engaging dining experience while earning a solid salary.
   




8. Solstice Restaurant
   Average Salary: $72,000
   Solstice Restaurant, located in Chicago, emphasizes farm-to-table freshness. Bartenders take pride in crafting unique cocktails, benefitting from both creative expression and competitive pay.
   




9. Scratch Restaurants Group
   Average Salary: $71,663
   Scratch Restaurants Group operates various restaurants focused on locally sourced ingredients. Bartenders in this group, especially in Marietta, Georgia, earn good wages and enjoy a collaborative environment.
   




10. Neighborhood Dining Group
    Average Salary: $69,857
    With a commitment to community and quality, Neighborhood Dining Group has several locations. Bartenders here work in friendly settings, providing excellent service and enjoying decent salaries.
    

As a bartender, increasing your earnings is achievable with the right strategies. Focus on these key factors to boost your income:

• Tips: Provide excellent service to encourage customers to leave generous tips. A friendly demeanor and attentiveness can make a big difference.
• Drink Knowledge: Understand the drinks you serve. Being able to recommend cocktails or explain ingredients impresses customers and can lead to more sales.
• Upselling: Suggest higher-priced drinks or add-ons to customers. A simple suggestion like a premium liquor can increase your earnings significantly.
• Networking: Build relationships with regular customers and staff. Strong connections can lead to repeat business and referrals.
• Special Events: Take advantage of events or busy nights. Being available during holidays or special occasions often results in increased tips and overall sales.