Barback Salary in Allentown, PA
Barbacks in Allentown, PA, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which equates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Allentown is growing at a rate of 9% per year, indicating a positive trajectory and increasing job opportunities in the hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Allentown, PA?
The salary of a Barback in Allentown varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,944.00 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Allentown Earn Tips?
Barbacks often do earn tips as part of their compensation. While the amounts vary, a typical Barback can expect to earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift, which significantly supplements their base salary and overall income.
Barback Salary in Allentown vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, or approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Allentown earn slightly less at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This variation can be influenced by factors such as local cost of living, establishment types, and demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Allentown for Barbacks
Looking at nearby areas, Barbacks can expect different pay scales:
- Downtown Allentown: $15.50 per hour
- West End Theatre District: $17.60 per hour
The West End Theatre District offers the highest pay in the vicinity, reflecting its busier nightlife scene and more upscale establishments.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Allentown?
Several key factors determine a Barback's salary in Allentown:
- Experience and Skill Level: Barbacks with more experience and strong multitasking abilities tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, clubs, or large venues generally offers better pay than casual pubs or smaller restaurants.
- Location and Area: Positions in bustling districts like the West End Theatre District often provide higher wages due to increased clientele volume and demand.
- Shift Hours: Night shifts and weekend work often come with better pay or additional tips.
- Tip Earnings: Establishments with high customer traffic usually provide more generous tipping opportunities that raise total earnings.
How To Become a Barback in Allentown
If you are looking to start a career as a Barback in Allentown, here are a few steps to consider:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Training: Enroll in the Hospitality Management Program at Lehigh Carbon Community College, which offers foundational knowledge beneficial for Barbacks.
- Acquire Culinary Skills: The Culinary Arts Program at Northampton Community College can provide valuable training on food and beverage services.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Certifications like the Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are essential for legal and responsible alcohol service in Pennsylvania.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Communication Skills: The Barback role is physically demanding and customer-facing, requiring strong stamina and teamwork.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Allentown
Barbacks in Allentown commonly find positions with popular hospitality venues such as:
- Dave & Buster's
- Windows on 6th
- Rosa Blanca Cuban Rum Bar by Jose Garces
Establishments That Barbacks in Allentown Work At
Barbacks typically find work in a variety of hospitality establishments, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often entry points for new Barbacks offering basic pay and tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual and Nightclubs: Higher energy environments that might offer better tips and shift differentials.
- High-End Hotels and Cocktail Lounges: These establishments tend to pay higher salaries and offer more lucrative tips due to a wealthier clientele.
The establishment type influences both the base salary and the tipping potential, making the choice of workplace a key factor in overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Allentown for Barbacks
Those interested in related roles may consider the following positions, which share some skills and responsibilities with Barbacks:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista roles, offering varying levels of responsibility and pay within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Allentown
Barbacks must be aware of local and federal labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper income management.
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry website for details on state labor regulations.
- For federal tax information, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website provides comprehensive resources.
- The City of Allentown official website offers local government information and services relevant to workers.