Barback Salary in Cleveland, OH
Barbacks in Cleveland, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $16.82 per hour, which translates to about $672.80 per week, $2,915.47 per month, and $34,985.60 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Cleveland is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities in the hospitality and nightlife sectors.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Barback in Cleveland varies depending on experience, skills, and employer. Here is an overview of 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Cleveland often earn tips as part of their compensation. While the amount can vary by establishment, Barbacks can potentially make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks make an average of about $14.50 per hour, or roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Cleveland earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $16.82 and an annual income of approximately $34,985.60. This reflects Cleveland’s competitive hospitality scene and the demand for skilled Barbacks.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer higher wages for Barbacks, including:
- Lakewood: $19.96 per hour
- North Olmsted: $20.68 per hour
Barbacks willing to commute to Lakewood or North Olmsted can earn a notable premium compared to Cleveland proper.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Cleveland?
Several factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Cleveland:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks command better wages and may take on additional responsibilities.
- Skills: Familiarity with inventory management, speed, and efficiency can improve earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, or busy sports venues often pay higher wages and offer better tips.
- Work Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials or higher tip volumes.
- Certifications: Having alcohol service certifications can make candidates more desirable.
How To Become a Barback in Cleveland
To start a career as a Barback in Cleveland, consider these steps:
- Training Programs: Enroll in hospitality programs such as the Cuyahoga Community College Hospitality Management Program for foundational knowledge including beverage service.
- Bartending Education: Attending the Cleveland Bartending School can sharpen your skills and increase your chances of advancement.
- Alcohol Service Certifications: Obtain certifications like the Ohio Alcohol Server Knowledge (ASK) Program or the ServSafe Alcohol Certification to demonstrate responsible service expertise.
- Gain Experience: Start working in bars or clubs, learning the flow and operations firsthand.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Cleveland
Some of the notable places employing Barbacks in Cleveland include:
- Delaware North at Progressive Field
- Twist Social Club & Landmark Smokehouse
- TownHall Ohio City
Establishments That Barbacks in Cleveland Work At
Barbacks typically work in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Generally offer base wages with moderate tips; entry point for many Barbacks.
- Fast Casual and Sports Venues: Busier environments with higher volumes, resulting in better tip potential.
- Nightclubs and High-End Bars: These establishments offer the highest earning potential through wages and substantial tips.
The type of establishment greatly influences the overall compensation, especially tips, so choosing the right venue can impact earnings significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Barbacks
If you are interested in exploring roles related to Barback positions, consider the following careers:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista—all roles closely related in hospitality and beverage service, offering paths for career growth.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Cleveland
Barbacks should be familiar with various labor laws and tax responsibilities relevant to working in Cleveland and Ohio.
- Check the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for federal employment laws and guidelines.
- Visit the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services site for state-specific resources on workforce development and labor.
- The City of Cleveland official website offers information on local labor regulations and employment services.