Barback Salary in Athens, GA
Barbacks in Athens, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $11.35 per hour, which translates to about $454.00 per week, $1,967.33 per month, and $23,608.00 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in Athens is showing positive growth at around 2% per year, indicating increasing demand for support staff in hospitality venues throughout the city.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Athens, GA?
Barbacks in Athens earn salaries that vary by experience and venue, but here is a breakdown of typical earnings at different career stages.
| 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) | $11.35 | $454.00 | $1,967.33 | $23,608.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
Do Barbacks in Athens Earn Tips?
Barbacks usually do earn tips which can supplement their hourly wage. In Athens, Barbacks can expect to make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift timing. This can significantly boost overall earnings, especially in busy nightlife venues.
Barback Salary in Athens vs. National Average
The national average salary for Barbacks is about $11.82 per hour or roughly $24,585.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Athens make slightly less per hour with $11.35, and earn about $23,608 yearly. This reflects the regional cost of living and local hospitality market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Barbacks
Nearby neighborhoods provide slightly different pay rates for Barbacks, such as:
- Downtown Athens: $12.00 per hour
- Five Points: $11.80 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown Athens generally earn the highest hourly rates due to more upscale bars and higher volume venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Athens?
Several factors influence how much a Barback earns in Athens:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with more industry experience or bartending skills may negotiate higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars or busy nightclubs often pay more than casual or neighborhood pubs.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts often come with tip potential and higher base pay.
- Local Economy: Athens’ growing hospitality scene drives demand and wages in the sector.
- Tip Income: Since tips form a significant part of compensation, venues with high customer volume reward Barbacks better.
How To Become a Barback in Athens
Starting as a Barback in Athens requires a few key steps to gain employment and progress:
- Gain Basic Experience: Many Barbacks begin in entry-level hospitality roles or as bussers to learn bar operations.
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Athens Technical College Culinary Arts Program offers training that includes knowledge applicable for bar roles.
- Consider Higher Education: The University of Georgia offers Hospitality and Food Industry Management programs useful for career advancement.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Alcohol Certification and TIPS are often required to work legally and responsibly in bars.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Communication Skills: Barbacks must be quick, reliable, and able to interact professionally with customers and staff.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Athens
Some of the prominent venues looking to hire Barbacks in Athens include:
- The Georgia Theatre
- The Foundry
- Creature Comforts Brewing Co.
Establishments That Barbacks in Athens Work At
Barbacks typically find employment in various hospitality venues such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Usually offer moderate pay with steady foot traffic and tips.
- Fast Casual and Nightclubs: Can provide higher earnings due to busy environments and tip potential.
- Breweries and Music Venues: Often pay competitive wages and demand efficient bar support staff.
- Restaurants with Bars: Depending on the establishment’s size and clientele, pay can vary significantly.
Each type of establishment affects salary and tip opportunities, with busy, high-volume venues tending to offer better overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens for Barbacks
If you are exploring careers similar to being a Barback, here are a few related roles worth considering.
These include Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager — roles with increasing responsibility and salary potential in the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Athens
Barbacks should be familiar with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to navigate their employment rights and obligations:
- Visit the State of Georgia Department of Labor website for information on local labor laws, wages, and workplace rights.
- For federal tax and employment rules, IRS.gov offers comprehensive resources for employees and employers.