Barback Salary in New Orleans, LA
Barbacks in New Orleans, LA, 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 New Orleans is growing at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the hospitality industry in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Barback Make in New Orleans, LA?
The salary for Barbacks in New Orleans varies with experience and employer type. Here’s a breakdown by experience level:
| 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in New Orleans Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. They can often make an extra $10 or more per hour in tips on busy shifts, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Barback Salary in New Orleans vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn about $14.50 per hour, or around $30,160 per year.
Barbacks in New Orleans earn slightly below the national hourly average at $13.90 per hour and approximately $28,912 annually, which reflects regional cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Orleans for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Barbacks:
- French Quarter: $15.50 per hour
- Central Business District: $17.60 per hour
Working in the Central Business District can offer significantly higher hourly wages compared to other neighborhoods, making it a lucrative option for Barbacks.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in New Orleans?
Several factors can affect how much a Barback earns in New Orleans:
- Experience and Skill Level: Barbacks with more experience or specialized skills in cocktail preparation assistance often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale bars, hotels, or nightclubs usually offers better compensation than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Tips and Customer Volume: High-traffic bars with generous tipping culture increase the potential earnings from tips.
- Work Hours and Shift Timing: Night and weekend shifts can come with premium wage rates or more tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: The bustling New Orleans nightlife and tourism influence wage levels and job availability.
How To Become a Barback in New Orleans
Starting a career as a Barback in New Orleans involves key steps:
- Get Bar and Bartending Training: Programs like those at the New Orleans School of Bartending provide comprehensive training in mixology, bar operations, and customer service.
- Study Hospitality Management: Courses offered by Delgado Community College's Hospitality Management Program can help develop a broad skillset desirable to employers.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Completing the Responsible Vendor Training mandatory in Louisiana and earning a ServSafe Alcohol Certification boosts employability.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or volunteering at events help develop practical skills needed as a Barback.
- Maintain Good Physical Stamina and a Friendly Demeanor: The role demands fast-paced, physical work and excellent teamwork skills.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in New Orleans
- Hyatt
- The Penthouse Club New Orleans
- New Orleans Daiquiri Bar And Grill
Establishments That Barbacks in New Orleans Work At
Barbacks in New Orleans typically work across a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Bars and Lounges: These venues offer steady work and modest wages but may provide good tip opportunities on busy nights.
- Nightclubs and High-End Bars: These establishments usually offer higher pay and greater tip potential due to increased customer volume and spending.
- Hotels and Resorts: Barbacks working in hotel bars may receive benefits alongside competitive salaries and tips.
- Fast Casual and Event Venues: Often require rapid service skills, but base pay might be lower with limited tipping.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence both salary and tipping potential for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Orleans for Barbacks
If you're considering careers related to the Barback role, you might look into these positions that share similar skill sets and work environments:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager, all of which involve working closely with customers and beverage service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in New Orleans
Understanding local and federal regulations is important for Barbacks in New Orleans to ensure fair labor conditions and compliance with tax obligations.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive federal labor standards.
- For state-specific rules, check out Louisiana’s employment and labor information.
- The City of New Orleans official website offers local regulations and resources important for hospitality workers.