Barback Salary in Nashville, TN
Barbacks in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, translating to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job demand for Barbacks in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Barback in Nashville varies depending on experience level and employer. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings:
| 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 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Barbacks in Nashville Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Nashville typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can often make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, boosting their overall income considerably depending on the venue.
Barback Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Barbacks in Nashville earn a slightly lower hourly wage of $13.90, which totals about $28,912 annually. This difference may relate to local economy and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Barbacks, including:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- The Gulch: $17.60 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can maximize earning potential due to higher wages and busy nightlife.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Nashville?
Several factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Nashville:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks tend to command higher wages and more tips.
- Skills: Strong multitasking, knowledge of drink preparation, and good customer service enhance value.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and busy nightclubs typically pay better than casual or smaller venues.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts might offer higher pay due to demand and tips.
- Location: Working in high-traffic, popular areas increases earning opportunities.
How To Become a Barback in Nashville
To start a career as a Barback in Nashville, consider these steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in programs such as the Nashville State Community College Culinary Arts Program, which includes beverage management courses beneficial for Barbacks.
- Specialized Training: Attend the Bartending School of Nashville to gain skills in bartending, mixology, and bar management, which can help transition into bartender roles.
- Licensing and Certification: Obtain required certifications like the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Server Permit and ServSafe Alcohol Certification to ensure compliance with state alcohol-serving laws and safety.
- Gain Experience: Start working in entry-level hospitality roles to build practical skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Nashville
Some of the leading employers currently looking for Barbacks in Nashville include:
- Pinewood Social
- Noelle Hotel
- Bungalow 10
- Hilton BNA Nashville
- Odie's
Establishments That Barbacks in Nashville Work At
Barbacks in Nashville are employed across a variety of hospitality venues, such as:
- Casual Bars: These venues often provide steady but moderate pay, with consistent tips during busy hours.
- Nightclubs: Clubs typically offer higher earning potential through tips and wages due to high patron volume and late hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide stable employment with structured pay scales and additional benefits.
- Restaurants with Bars: While primarily food-focused, these establishments employ Barbacks for high-volume drink service, which can influence pay levels based on clientele and service scale.
The type and prestige of the venue greatly affect overall salary and tip income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Barbacks
If you're considering careers related to Barback positions, here are some relevant jobs in Nashville:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista roles—positions that require similar skills but vary in responsibilities and earning potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Nashville
Barbacks in Nashville should be aware of key labor laws and tax information to ensure their rights and responsibilities are understood.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Tennessee for information on state labor laws and regulations.
- For federal labor laws, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's official site covering workplace standards and rights.