Barback Salary in Santa Monica, CA
Barbacks in Santa Monica, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.72 per hour, which translates to about $708.80 per week, $3,071.47 per month, and $36,857.60 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Santa Monica is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasingly vibrant hospitality industry in the region and a rising need for support roles in beverage service.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Santa Monica, CA?
Barback salaries in Santa Monica depend on experience and establishment, but the following table provides estimated earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.34 | $653.60 | $2,829.47 | $33,003.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.72 | $708.80 | $3,071.47 | $36,857.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.19 | $767.60 | $3,324.13 | $39,875.20 |
Do Barbacks in Santa Monica Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically do earn tips, as they often assist bartenders by keeping the bar stocked and clean, which can indirectly earn them a share of customer gratuities. On average, barbacks in busy venues may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income.
Barback Salary in Santa Monica vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn approximately $14.82 per hour and make about $30,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Santa Monica make noticeably more, with an hourly wage of about $17.72 and an annual salary nearing $36,857.60. This reflects higher living costs and increased demand within the Santa Monica hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Monica for Barbacks
Near Santa Monica, some local areas offer higher pay rates for Barbacks, including:
- Downtown Santa Monica: $18.50 per hour
- Ocean Avenue: $19.00 per hour
Working in these bustling districts often means access to higher wages due to the volume and prestige of establishments found there.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Santa Monica?
Various factors can impact a Barback’s earning potential in Santa Monica:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with efficient bartending support skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and high-end restaurants tend to offer better pay than casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might come with premium pay due to higher demand and busier service periods.
- Certifications: Responsible beverage service credentials or other hospitality certs can boost pay and job prospects.
- Local Demand: The vibrant nightlife and tourism in Santa Monica increase demand for bartender support roles, positively affecting wages.
How To Become a Barback in Santa Monica
Pursuing a career as a Barback in Santa Monica can be streamlined by a focus on relevant education and training:
- Enroll in Hospitality Programs: Santa Monica College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program offers foundational courses beneficial for Barbacks aiming to advance.
- Complete Bartending Training: The Bartending School of Santa Monica provides hands-on training in bartending skills, including Barback responsibilities.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is mandatory in California to ensure responsible alcohol service.
- Get Food Safety Certification: A Food Handler Card is also essential for working where food and beverages are served.
- Gain On-The-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level bar or hospitality positions helps develop practical skills necessary for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Santa Monica
The hospitality industry in Santa Monica is dynamic, with several notable employers frequently seeking qualified Barbacks:
- Proper Hospitality
- Jonathan Club
- SVIH Management LLC
Establishments That Barbacks in Santa Monica Work At
Barbacks in Santa Monica are typically employed in diverse establishments, each influencing salary in distinct ways:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Usually provide steady but moderate pay with potential for tips.
- High-End Nightclubs and Lounges: Tend to pay higher wages and offer greater tip opportunities due to upscale clientele.
- Restaurants with Full-Service Bars: Offer consistent hours and competitive pay, often with a mix of salary and tips.
- Event Venues and Hotels: May provide benefits and higher pay to accommodate large-scale operations and events.
The prestige, location, and clientele of an establishment directly affect Barbacks' wage levels and tip earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Monica for Barbacks
If you are considering roles related to Barbacking, these similar careers may interest you:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista, which offer related responsibilities and differing income potential levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Santa Monica
Barbacks in Santa Monica should familiarize themselves with essential labor laws and regulations:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations website for information on state labor laws and worker protections.
- Check the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for regulations regarding alcohol service and certification requirements.
- Consult the City of Santa Monica Official Website for local ordinances affecting hospitality workers.