Bartender Salary in 2026

Official government data · Updated April 2026

The median annual salary for a Bartender is $33,530 per year based on the most recent national wage survey data. Employment is projected to grow 5.9% over the 2024–2034 decade.

How Much Do Bartenders Make?

MetricValue
Median Annual Salary$33,530
10-Year Job Growth5.9%
Total Employment745,610
Typical EducationNo formal educational credential

Quick Salary Gap Check

Free — uses BLS market data

$

Enter your role and current salary above to see where you stand.

Bartender Jobs Hiring Now

One click builds a resume tailored to the job. Apply with confidence.

Get the Bartender salary report

Median pay, top company rates, and the skills that increase Bartender compensation — delivered to your inbox.

No spam. Unsubscribe any time.

Which Skills Increase Bartender Pay?

Bartenders with these high-demand tools and technologies typically command higher salaries.

Full skills breakdown →

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average salary for a Bartender?
The median annual salary for a Bartender is $33,530 per year, based on the most recent national wage survey data.
Is Bartender a growing career?
Employment for Bartender roles is projected to grow 5.9% over the 2024–2034 decade. Total employment is currently 745,610 workers nationally.
What skills increase Bartender pay?
Bartenders who demonstrate skills like typically command higher salaries. Certifications and advanced tools expertise can further boost compensation.

Salary and employment figures from official U.S. government records. Actual compensation varies by location, experience, and employer.