Bartender Salary 2025: $34,340 Median, Up to $73,770 at Top
The median salary for bartenders in the U.S. is $34,340, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $17 per hour, though the top 10% of earners pull in $73,770 or more.
The biggest money is on the coasts: Hawaii bartenders average $76,490, followed by New York at $61,210, Washington at $55,830, D.C. at $53,920, and Maine at $48,920. At the low end, South Carolina bartenders earn $19,370 median, Louisiana $20,850, and Iowa $21,720.
How much Bartenders earn
The national median wage for bartenders is $34,340 per year, with half of workers earning between the 25th percentile ($25,480) and 75th percentile ($49,370). The bottom 10% earn $20,110 or less, while the top 10% earn $73,770 or more.
- Mean annual wage: $40,790 (about $19.60/hour)
- 10th percentile: $20,110
- 25th percentile: $25,480
- 75th percentile: $49,370
- 90th percentile: $73,770
Pay by state
Hawaii pays bartenders the most, with a mean annual wage of $76,490 — more than double the national mean. New York follows at $61,210, then Washington ($55,830), District of Columbia ($53,920), and Maine ($48,920).
The lowest-paying states are South Carolina ($19,370), Louisiana ($20,850), and Iowa ($21,720). Keep in mind cost of living: $76,490 in Honolulu might not go as far as $48,920 in Portland, Maine.
How to become Bartender
No formal education is required, but most bartenders learn on the job. The typical path starts as a barback, server, or hospitality worker where you pick up skills like mixing drinks, handling cash, and knowing state alcohol laws.
- Minimum age 18–21 depending on state (often 21 for serving alcohol)
- No degree needed; high school diploma or equivalent is typical
- Many complete a bartending school or certification course (cost: $200–$500, often 2–8 weeks)
- Some states require a responsible beverage service certification (e.g., TIPS, ServSafe Alcohol)
Job outlook
Employment of bartenders is projected to grow 5.9% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. About 129,600 openings are expected each year over the decade, mostly from workers leaving the occupation or retiring.
Demand is driven by dining and entertainment spending. Top of the market (fine dining, high-end hotels) will have the strongest opportunities.
Frequently asked questions
Do bartenders make good money?
It depends on location and type of establishment. The national median is $34,340, but top earners in high-paying states like Hawaii or New York can make $60,000–$76,000. Tips are a big part of pay.
How much do bartenders make an hour including tips?
The BLS mean hourly wage is $19.61, but that includes tips. Actual take-home varies widely; at busy, upscale venues, experienced bartenders often earn $25–$40 per hour with tips.
How to become a bartender with no experience?
Start as a barback or server, take a bartending course, or apply as a trainee. Many employers will train if you have good customer service skills and a willingness to learn state alcohol laws.
What's the job growth for bartenders?
The BLS projects 5.9% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 129,600 openings per year.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Bartenders data.