Barback Salary in Minneapolis, MN
Barbacks in Minneapolis, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.80 per hour, which translates to about $592.00 per week, $2,565.33 per month, and $30,784.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Minneapolis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities and expansion within the local hospitality and nightlife industries.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Minneapolis, MN?
The salary of a Barback in Minneapolis can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.80 | $592.00 | $2,565.33 | $30,784.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.30 | $652.00 | $2,810.67 | $33,904.00 |
Do Barbacks in Minneapolis Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Minneapolis often earn additional income through tips. This can amount to approximately an extra $5 to $10 per hour in busy venues, depending on the generosity of customers and the establishment's tipping policies.
Barback Salary in Minneapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.80 per hour, or about $30,784 per year.
Barbacks in Minneapolis earn wages that align closely with the national average, reflecting a competitive market consistent with similar-sized cities.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Minneapolis for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Barbacks, including:
- Shakopee: $18.10 per hour
- Crystal: $16.80 per hour
These locations may provide better hourly rates for Barbacks willing to commute from Minneapolis.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Minneapolis?
Several factors impact the salary of a Barback in Minneapolis:
- Experience Level: More experienced Barbacks who work efficiently tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and busy nightclubs often pay higher wages and offer better tip potential.
- Time of Shifts: Late night or weekend shifts often come with increased pay or more tip opportunities.
- Skills and Reliability: Barbacks adept at multitasking and supporting Bartenders attract higher pay.
- Local Demand: Minneapolis' vibrant nightlife increases demand, positively affecting salaries.
How To Become a Barback in Minneapolis
Looking to start a career as a Barback in Minneapolis? Here are steps that can help you enter the field:
- Complete Bartending or Barback Training: Programs like the Bartending School of Minnesota and the Minnesota School of Bartending offer comprehensive training including barback duties.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquire the Alcohol Server Certification, mandatory in Minnesota for those serving alcohol.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Earning a Food Handler Certification ensures you understand proper food safety and sanitation practices.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Start working in casual settings and build a reputation for reliability and speed.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Minneapolis
Barbacks seeking employment in Minneapolis can consider the following top employers:
- Financial Times
- Chatterbox Pub
- Cowboy Jack's
- Punch Bowl Social
- Puttery
Establishments That Barbacks in Minneapolis Work At
Barbacks typically work in diverse settings such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often offering steady hours with tip opportunities.
- Nightclubs and Entertainment Venues: Usually higher-paced environments with greater tip potential.
- Fast Casual and Casual Dining Restaurants: Combining food service with bar duties, these may offer consistent wages but varying tip income.
The type of establishment can significantly influence the compensation, with high-end bars providing better salaries and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Minneapolis for Barbacks
If you're interested in career options related to Barback jobs, consider the following roles which share similar skill sets:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista positions, which complement the experience and career growth potential for those in the bar service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Minneapolis
Barbacks in Minneapolis should be aware of key labor laws and tax information relevant to their employment:
- Visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry website for details on workplace standards and employee rights.
- Learn about state taxes and regulations on the Minnesota Department of Revenue website.
- The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) website provides information on safety standards applicable to hospitality workers.