Barback Salary in Anchorage, AK
Barbacks in Anchorage, AK, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Anchorage is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for this hospitality support role in the local job market.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Anchorage, AK?
The salary of a Barback in Anchorage varies depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| 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 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Anchorage Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base pay, typically receiving an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the bar's policy and busy hours. This can significantly boost overall earnings for Barbacks working in high-volume or upscale venues.
Barback Salary in Anchorage vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Barbacks in Anchorage earn slightly below this national hourly average at $13.90 per hour, or $28,912 annually, which may reflect regional cost of living and hospitality market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Anchorage for Barbacks
Nearby Anchorage neighborhoods offer varying pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Anchorage: $15.50 per hour
- Midtown Anchorage: $17.60 per hour
Working in Midtown Anchorage can potentially offer higher pay compared to other areas, reflecting differences in venue size and clientele.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Anchorage?
Several key factors influence how much a Barback can earn in Anchorage:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks who efficiently manage bar stock and support Bartenders tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars or large nightclubs usually offer better compensation than casual pubs or small neighborhood bars.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often pay more, especially where there is heavy business.
- Location: Barbacks working in high-traffic parts of Anchorage, such as Midtown, often benefit from increased pay.
- Tip Availability: Bars with generous tipping culture increase total take-home pay for Barbacks.
How To Become a Barback in Anchorage
Becoming a Barback in Anchorage can be facilitated through several practical steps and relevant certifications.
Starting with a strong foundation in hospitality helps, and programs like the University of Alaska Anchorage Culinary Arts Program provide relevant training, including beverage management skills valuable for advancing beyond Barback roles.
Obtaining certifications such as the Alaska Alcohol Server Certification is mandatory, ensuring you understand state alcohol laws and responsible service. The Alaska CHARR Training offers important alcohol server training and certification recognized locally.
Additionally, having a Food Handler's Card is essential for any food and beverage role in Alaska, certifying your knowledge of safe food handling and hygiene practices.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Anchorage
Several well-known chains and venues actively hire Barbacks in Anchorage:
- Benihana
- Dave & Buster's
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Barbacks in Anchorage Work At
Barbacks typically find employment in a range of hospitality venues:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Common for entry-level Barbacks, pay is moderate and varies by shift.
- Nightclubs and High-Volume Bars: Often provide higher wages and more tipping opportunities due to busy environments.
- Restaurants with Full-Service Bars: Pay can be competitive, especially in upscale or chain restaurants with dedicated beverage programs.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually offer stable schedules and benefits, sometimes paying more than standalone bars.
The type and prestige of the establishment considerably impact a Barback’s salary and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Anchorage for Barbacks
If you are exploring similar or career progression roles related to Barback, consider the following paths:
These include Bartender, Barista, and fellow Barback roles, representing common career tracks within the bar and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Anchorage
Barbacks in Anchorage should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper working conditions and compliance.
- You can review federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development provides specific employment laws and workforce resources.
- Local employment requirements, ordinances, and resources are available through the Municipality of Anchorage official website.