Barback Salary in Boston, MA
Barbacks in Boston, MA, in 2026, earn approximately $16.43 per hour, which translates to about $657.20 per week, $2,847.87 per month, and $34,174.40 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Boston is growing steadily at about 5%, indicating a positive outlook with increasing job opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Boston?
The salary of a Barback in Boston varies based on experience, skills, and the establishment, but the following table provides a breakdown 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Boston Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips as part of their compensation. In Boston, Barbacks can make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and customer flow, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Boston vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equals roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Boston earn more, with a typical hourly pay of $16.43 and an annual salary of $34,174.40.
This difference reflects Boston's larger hospitality market and higher living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boston for Barbacks
Nearby cities offering higher pay for Barbacks include:
- Cambridge: $24.32 per hour
- Salisbury: $21.01 per hour
These areas may provide better compensation opportunities, especially in upscale or busy venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Boston?
Several factors can influence a Barback's salary in Boston:
- Experience and Skills: Those with strong knowledge of bar operations, quick multitasking abilities, and good physical stamina can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, and luxury hotels typically offer greater compensation.
- Hours and Shifts: Late-night or weekend shifts may pay more due to demand and tips.
- Location: Working in central Boston or nearby affluent areas often results in higher earnings.
- Reputation and Networking: Barbacks known for reliability and fast service may be preferred and better paid.
How To Become a Barback in Boston
Becoming a Barback in Boston involves a combination of training, certification, and practical experience:
- Complete training programs: Institutions such as Boston Bartenders School offer comprehensive programs that cover mixology, bar operations, and customer service skills applicable for Barbacks.
- Advance your knowledge: The New England Culinary Institute provides courses in beverage management and bar operations, helpful for career growth.
- Obtain certifications: Certifications like TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are commonly required by Massachusetts employers to ensure responsible alcohol service.
- Gain experience: Working as a Busser, Server, or in other hospitality roles can provide relevant skills.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Boston
Some notable employers actively seeking Barbacks in Boston include:
- Legal Sea Foods
- Omni Hotels
- The Mode Lounge
Establishments That Barbacks in Boston Work At
Barbacks typically find employment in a range of hospitality venues, such as:
- Casual bars and pubs: Often entry-level positions with moderate pay but valuable experience.
- Fast casual restaurants: May provide steady work but lower salaries.
- Nightclubs and high-end lounges: Tend to offer higher pay and better tips due to a more financially affluent clientele.
- Hotels and resorts: These establishments generally provide stable employment with benefits and potential for advancement.
Salary varies with the prestige and customer volume of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boston for Barbacks
If you are interested in exploring similar careers to Barback, consider the following roles which often share skills and work environments:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista, all roles that complement the skills developed as a Barback.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Boston
Barbacks should be familiar with applicable labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the official Massachusetts government website for detailed information on state labor laws, minimum wage, and workplace regulations.
- For federal labor standards, resources are available at the U.S. Department of Labor website, which covers fair labor practices and wage laws.