Barback Salary in Hampton, VA
Barbacks in Hampton, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $11.07 per hour, which translates to about $442.80 per week, $1,918.80 per month, and $23,025.60 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Hampton is growing slowly at about 2% per year, reflecting modest but positive growth in this sector of the hospitality industry in the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Hampton, VA?
The salary of a Barback in Hampton can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across 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) | $11.07 | $442.80 | $1,918.80 | $23,025.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.75 | $510.00 | $2,205.00 | $26,520.00 |
Do Barbacks in Hampton Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips as part of their compensation due to their support role in busy bars and restaurants. On average, a Barback in Hampton might earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift.
Barback Salary in Hampton vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $13.37 per hour, which amounts to about $27,809.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Hampton earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $11.07 and an annual salary of approximately $23,025.60.
This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hampton for Barbacks
Looking at nearby areas, Barback salaries can vary somewhat:
- Downtown Hampton: $12.50 per hour
- Phoebus: $12.00 per hour
These neighboring areas might offer slightly higher wages compared to the overall Hampton average, making them attractive for Barbacks seeking better pay.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Hampton?
Several key factors influence how much a Barback can earn in Hampton:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks typically command higher hourly wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Those with strong multitasking and organizational skills can secure better-paying roles.
- Type of Establishment: Barbacks in upscale bars, lounges, or hotel bars tend to earn more than those in casual settings.
- Shift Hours: Late-night or weekend shifts may offer higher pay due to demand and tips.
- Location: Working in higher-paying neighborhoods like Downtown Hampton can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Barback in Hampton
Becoming a successful Barback involves a combination of practical experience and relevant knowledge:
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Many Barbacks start with basic roles in hospitality, learning the ropes on the job.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Programs such as the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills useful for Barbacks wishing to advance.
- Pursue Management Education: The Virginia Peninsula Community College Hospitality Management Program offers insights into restaurant operations which can be valuable for career growth.
- Obtain Required Certifications: A Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) License is necessary for handling alcohol, while the ServSafe Alcohol Certification enhances employability by demonstrating knowledge of responsible service.
- Develop Interpersonal Skills: Since Barbacks assist bartenders and interact with hospitality teams, strong communication is a plus.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Hampton
Some of the notable employers in Hampton hiring Barbacks include:
- Hilton
- Marriott International
- Legends
Establishments That Barbacks in Hampton Work At
Barbacks in Hampton commonly work in a variety of settings:
- Casual Bars: These offer steady work with moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Some bars within these establishments employ Barbacks, usually with entry-level wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher pay and more regular hours due to the upscale environment.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: High-volume venues where Barbacks tend to earn more tips.
The type of establishment influences not only base salary but also the availability and amount of tips, impacting overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hampton for Barbacks
If you're interested in careers related to Barbacks, you might consider these similar roles:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista—all roles centered around beverage service and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Hampton
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure their employment rights and compliance:
- Federal regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Virginia-specific employment laws and resources are available at the Virginia government website.
- The Hampton city official site provides local business and employment regulations.