Bartenders

Earnings for this occupation cover a broad range and are influenced by such factors as the bartender's experience, his or her ability to deal with the public, and even where he or she works. Full-time bartenders had median hourly wages of $15.15 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. A person working 40 hours a week at this pay rate would earn approximately $31,510 annually. The lowest paid 10 percent of full-time bartenders earned less than $9.55 per hour (less than $19,870 annually), and the highest paid 10 percent made more than $29.43 per hour (more than $61,210 annually). Bartenders who were employed in restaurants had mean annual earnings of $39,790, while those employed in drinking places earned $34,620. These earning figures do not include tips. With tips, bartenders' yearly incomes may increase by thousands of dollars, depending on factors such as the bartender's personality and service he or she gives, the establishment's location, and the size of the bar.

Besides wages and tips, bartenders may get free meals at work and may be furnished bar jackets or complete uniforms. Those who work full time usually receive typical benefits, such as health insurance and vacation days.