Barback Salary in San Diego, CA
Barbacks in San Diego, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.00 per hour, which translates to about $560.00 per week, $2,426.67 per month, and $29,120.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in San Diego is growing steadily at about 5%, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality and bar industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in San Diego?
The salary of a Barback in San Diego varies by experience level. Below is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay across entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,943.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in San Diego Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in San Diego typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. Depending on the venue and shift, they can earn an extra around $5 to $15 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Barback Salary in San Diego vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.00 per hour, which amounts to approximately $29,120 per year.
San Diego's average Barback salary matches the national average, offering competitive wages reflective of the region's cost of living and hospitality demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Diego for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Barbacks, enhancing earning potential for those willing to commute:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- La Jolla: $16.00 per hour
Working in La Jolla offers the highest hourly pay among these nearby locations, likely due to its upscale establishments and tourist presence.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in San Diego?
A variety of factors contribute to a Barback's earning potential in San Diego. Notably:
- Experience and skills: Barbacks with more experience and strong multitasking abilities tend to earn higher wages and receive better tips.
- Type of establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, and busy restaurants often pay more than casual or fast casual venues.
- Shift timing and workload: Evening or weekend shifts might offer higher compensation or extra tips due to busier periods.
- Local demand and cost of living: San Diego's bustling bar scene and living expenses can drive salary expectations upward.
How To Become a Barback in San Diego
Becoming a Barback in San Diego involves a combination of training, certifications, and on-the-job experience.
Key steps to enter this field include:
- Complete Bartending or Barback Training: Programs such as San Diego Bartending School and Bartending College San Diego provide comprehensive training on bar operations, mixology basics, and customer service, which are crucial for Barbacks.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: In California, the Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is required for alcohol servers and bar staff to prevent underage or unsafe alcohol sales.
- Acquire a Food Handler's Card: This certification ensures knowledge of safe food handling and hygiene practices, often required for bar work.
- Gain Experience: Starting as a barback or support staff helps build practical skills and can lead to advancement opportunities in bartending or bar management.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in San Diego
San Diego boasts a vibrant hospitality scene with several notable employers actively hiring Barbacks:
- Herb & Wood
- The Smoking Gun
- House of Blues San Diego
- Tao Group Hospitality
- Puesto
Establishments That Barbacks in San Diego Work At
Barbacks in San Diego typically find employment in a diverse range of establishments, such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues offer steady work but potentially lower tips and wages than upscale places.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Higher pay and better tipping opportunities often come with more prestigious or busy restaurants.
- Nightclubs and Entertainment Venues: These spots usually require fast-paced service and can provide additional income through tips and shift differentials.
- Hotels and Event Spaces: Barbacks here might enjoy more stable schedules and benefits, though pay can vary.
The type of establishment significantly impacts both base wage and tip income, with premium venues tending to offer the best overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Diego for Barbacks
If you are interested in roles similar to Barback, consider exploring related hospitality positions that share some duties or career paths.
These positions include Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager, offering potential career progression and varied responsibilities within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in San Diego
Barbacks in San Diego should be informed about state and local labor laws, taxation, and employment regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Consult the California Department of Industrial Relations for comprehensive details on labor laws and workplace regulations.
- Visit the California Employment Development Department for information on employment services and tax guidance.
- For local rules and resources, the City of San Diego Official Website provides useful information.