Barback Salary in Ann Arbor, MI
Barbacks in Ann Arbor, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $12.00 per hour, which translates to about $480.00 per week, $2,080.00 per month, and $24,960.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Ann Arbor is growing positively at a rate of 9% per year, indicating an increasing need for support staff in the vibrant local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Ann Arbor, MI?
The salary for a Barback in Ann Arbor varies depending on experience and the establishment, but the following table outlines typical earnings across different experience 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) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Barbacks in Ann Arbor Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips on top of their base salary. It's common for Barbacks to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift. This additional income can significantly increase overall earnings, especially in busy establishments.
Barback Salary in Ann Arbor vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $16.12 per hour, which equates to roughly $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Ann Arbor earn less hourly ($12.00 vs. $16.12 per hour) and in annual salary ($24,960.00 vs. $33,529.60), reflective of regional cost of living and market demand differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ann Arbor for Barbacks
Within the Ann Arbor area, Barbacks can find higher wages in certain neighborhoods:
- Downtown Ann Arbor: $13.00 per hour
- Kerrytown: $12.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Ann Arbor offers the highest pay, likely due to higher foot traffic and upscale venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Ann Arbor?
Several key factors dictate the pay scale for Barbacks in Ann Arbor:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks generally earn higher wages and may receive more tips.
- Skills: Proficiency in bartending support tasks such as restocking, glasswashing, and customer service can increase value.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, clubs, and high-volume venues tend to offer better compensation.
- Shift Hours: Night and weekend shifts often come with premium pay or larger tips.
- Local Demand: Busy hospitality hubs like Downtown Ann Arbor may have more competitive pay.
How To Become a Barback in Ann Arbor
Getting started as a Barback in Ann Arbor involves some focused steps to build skills and meet regulations.
- Complete relevant hospitality training: Consider programs like the Washtenaw Community College Hospitality Program, which offers essential courses providing foundational knowledge for Barbacks.
- Attend bartending and Barback skill schools: The Ann Arbor Bartending School focuses on bartending skills and Barback responsibilities.
- Obtain required certifications: In Michigan, obtaining the Michigan Alcohol Server Certification and the ServSafe Alcohol Certification is necessary to responsibly serve alcohol.
- Gain on-the-job experience: Many Barbacks start in entry-level positions to learn the ropes and grow professionally.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Ann Arbor
Some notable employers in Ann Arbor looking for Barbacks include:
- Good Time Charley's
- Union Joints
- Arbor Brewing Company
Establishments That Barbacks in Ann Arbor Work At
Barbacks in Ann Arbor typically find employment at a variety of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, bars, nightclubs, breweries, and fast casual venues.
The type of establishment significantly affects salary; for example, upscale bars and breweries generally offer higher wages and better tips than casual or fast-casual venues.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ann Arbor for Barbacks
If you're interested in similar careers related to Barback roles, you might consider the following positions.
These include Bartender, Barista, and Barback positions, which share aspects of hospitality service and support.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Ann Arbor
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Barbacks to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Michigan for the latest state labor laws and employment regulations.
- Check the U.S. Department of Labor's official site for comprehensive federal labor standards, wage guidelines, and workers’ rights.