Barback Salary in San Antonio, TX
Barbacks in San Antonio, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $11.38 per hour, which translates to about $455.20 per week, $1,972.53 per month, and $23,670.40 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in San Antonio is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities within the hospitality industry in the region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in San Antonio, TX?
The salary of a Barback in San Antonio varies based on experience and employer, but here is an overview of 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 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in San Antonio Earn Tips?
Barbacks often receive tips as part of their earnings, depending on the establishment. On average, Barbacks in San Antonio can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income. Tips typically come from bartenders as a reward for support and efficient service behind the bar.
Barback Salary in San Antonio vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Barbacks in San Antonio earn slightly less hourly at $11.38 per hour, and $23,670.40 annually. This difference can be due to the lower cost of living in San Antonio and varying demand in local hospitality markets.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Antonio for Barbacks
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Barbacks include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Alamo Heights: $17.60 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods may offer Barbacks better wages, possibly because of the upscale venues and higher customer volume present in such areas.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in San Antonio?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations for Barbacks in San Antonio:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with strong knowledge of bar operations and excellent customer service skills typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and high-volume venues tend to pay better than casual or small bars.
- Location: Working in popular or wealthy neighborhoods, such as Alamo Heights, can increase earning potential.
- Shift Timings: Evening and weekend shifts may have increased pay due to demand and tips.
How To Become a Barback in San Antonio
To pursue a career as a Barback in San Antonio, consider the following steps:
- Complete Training Programs: Attending the San Antonio Bartending School offers comprehensive training covering bar operations, mixology basics, and customer service skills essential for Barbacks.
- Enroll in Hospitality Courses: St. Philip's College Culinary Arts Program includes beverage management and hospitality courses beneficial for Barbacks advancing in this field.
- Acquire Required Certifications: Mandatory certifications such as the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification ensure knowledge of state alcohol laws and responsible serving.
- Obtain a Food Handler's Permit: This permit is necessary for handling food and beverages and reinforces knowledge of food safety practices.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in San Antonio
Several well-known establishments in San Antonio frequently hire Barbacks, including:
- Yard House
- Alamo Biscuit Company and Panaderia
- Blu Prime Steakhouse
Establishments That Barbacks in San Antonio Work At
Barbacks typically find employment in various types of venues including:
- Casual Bars and Restaurants: Often provide entry-level opportunities with moderate pay and potential tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: May offer consistent hours but generally lower wages compared to higher-end venues.
- Nightclubs and Upscale Bars: These venues typically pay more and provide increased tipping opportunities, significantly boosting overall income.
The type of establishment affects not only the base salary but also tipping potential and career growth possibilities within the hospitality industry.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Antonio for Barbacks
If you are interested in similar roles within hospitality, consider:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista positions, all offering varied responsibilities and salary ranges within the bar and hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in San Antonio
Barbacks in San Antonio should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax requirements. Useful resources include:
- Texas Workforce Commission - State agency providing workforce development services, including job search resources and labor market information.
- Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation - Oversees licensing for various professions, including those in the hospitality industry.
- U.S. Department of Labor - Federal agency providing information on labor laws, wages, and employment statistics.