Barback Salary in Louisville, KY
Barbacks in Louisville, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Louisville is growing positively at around 9% per year, indicating an increasing need for support staff in the hospitality industry across the city.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Louisville, KY?
The salary of a Barback in Louisville can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different 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 | $2,438.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Louisville Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Louisville vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn on average around $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Louisville earn slightly less per hour at $13.90, and their yearly earnings are also somewhat below the national average.
This difference may reflect Louisville's local cost of living and hospitality market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Louisville for Barbacks
When exploring areas close to Louisville, pay for Barbacks varies:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Highlands: $17.60 per hour
Areas like Highlands tend to offer higher wages for Barbacks possibly due to more upscale venues and higher customer volumes.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Louisville?
Several factors influence how much a Barback can earn in Louisville:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks who efficiently assist Bartenders and maintain the bar area tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars or busy nightclubs typically pay more than casual or smaller venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may include shift differentials or increased tip potential.
- Additional Skills: Knowledge in basic mixology or customer service can enhance a Barback's attractiveness to employers.
- Hours Worked: Full-time workers often have higher overall earnings compared to part-time staff.
How To Become a Barback in Louisville
Starting a career as a Barback in Louisville can be straightforward but enhanced by some targeted training and certifications.
Here are key steps to consider:
- Enroll in Bartending Schools: Programs like the Bartending School of Louisville provide comprehensive training including Barback duties, mixology, and customer service skills.
- Consider Culinary Education: Sullivan University's Culinary Arts Program offers courses covering beverage management and bar operations that can be valuable.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: The Kentucky Alcohol Server Training is mandatory for serving alcohol in the state, teaching responsible service and legal compliance.
- National Certifications: The ServSafe Alcohol Certification is a widely recognized credential supporting responsible alcohol service.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many Barbacks start by working in entry-level roles assisting bartenders and learning the ropes at local bars.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Louisville
In Louisville, several employers actively seek skilled Barbacks:
- Topgolf
- Sedona Taphouse
- The Mint Gaming Hall
Establishments That Barbacks in Louisville Work At
Barbacks in Louisville find work in a variety of hospitality establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These often provide steady employment with moderate wages and tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Dining Venues: Barbacks here assist with stocking and bar setup, which can affect their pay scale and tips.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: Typically offer the highest tip potential and often pay more due to busy and high-volume service demands.
- Event Venues and Casinos: Can offer varied shifts and sometimes better pay to meet fluctuating demand.
The type of establishment strongly influences both base salary and tip earnings for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Louisville for Barbacks
If you’re considering roles related to Barback, here are several similar opportunities:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions, all of which share hospitality job functions connected to serving and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Louisville
Barbacks should be knowledgeable about employment regulations and tax rules that apply in Louisville and Kentucky:
- Consult the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal guidance.
- Explore the Kentucky Career Center for state-specific employment and labor information.
- Visit the Official site for the city of Louisville for local employment resources and regulations.