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Barback Salary in Upper-Darby, PA

Barbacks in Upper-Darby, PA, in 2025, typically earn around $12.45 per hour, which amounts to approximately $498.00 per week, $2,158.00 per month, and $25,896.00 per year.

The job outlook for Barbacks is positive, with employment expected to grow by about 27% per year. This indicates an expanding demand for support roles in the hospitality and bar industries throughout the area.

What could I earn?
Find out how your salary compares to the average Barback salary.
Job Title
Location
Your Salary
Average Barback Salary in Upper Darby, PA:
Your salary is the same as the Upper Darby, PA salary average.
$12.45
Your Salary
$12.45
$0.00
$12.45
$24.90
Market Average
$12.45

How Much Does a Barback Make in Upper-Darby, PA?

The earnings of a Barback in Upper-Darby can vary depending on experience, establishment, and other factors. The table below outlines typical pay ranges based on different experience levels.

Experience levelHourly payWeekly payMonthly payYearly pay
Entry-level (~25th percentile)$10.50$420.00$1,820.00$21,840.00
Mid-level (average)$12.45$498.00$2,158.00$25,896.00
Top earners (90th percentile)$15.00$600.00$2,600.00$31,200.00

Do Barbacks in Upper-Darby Earn Tips?

Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base salary. It is common for Barbacks to make an extra $5-$10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift. These tips can significantly boost overall earnings.

Barback Salary in Upper-Darby vs. National Average

Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.82 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,825.60 annually.

Compared to this, Barbacks in Upper-Darby earn slightly less at an average of $12.45 per hour, or $25,896.00 per year. The difference may reflect local economic factors and cost of living differences.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Upper-Darby for Barbacks

Nearby areas with higher pay for Barbacks include:

  • Drexel Hill: $13.50 per hour
  • Clifton Heights: $13.00 per hour

Barbacks willing to commute to these locations might find better pay opportunities than in Upper-Darby.

High-Paying Cities for Barbacks

The table below showcases four of the best cities to work in as a Barback. You can see the average annual wage for a Barback in each of these cities.

City

Avg Salary

Avg Hourly Wage

Chicago, IL

$27,276

$13.11

Los Angeles, CA

$29,954

$14.40

Miami, FL

$28,506

$13.70

NYC, NY

$31,976

$15.37

What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Upper-Darby?

Several factors can impact the salary of a Barback in Upper-Darby:

  • Experience and Skill Level: Barbacks with more experience or specific skills such as inventory management or mixology assistance may command higher wages.
  • Type of Establishment: Working at higher-end bars, nightclubs, or busy restaurants can lead to better pay and more tipping opportunities.
  • Certifications: States like Pennsylvania require certain alcohol service certifications that can enhance employability and wage potential.
  • Shift Timing: Night shifts or weekends often come with higher demand, sometimes resulting in increased pay or tips.
  • Local Cost of Living: Living costs in the Pennsylvania suburbs influence wage rates when compared nationally.

How To Become a Barback in Upper-Darby

To start a career as a Barback in Upper-Darby, consider these steps:

  • Obtain basic training or courses related to hospitality. Programs like Delaware County Community College Hospitality Management Program offer foundational knowledge of the hospitality sector.
  • Gain bartending-related skills by attending schools such as the Philadelphia Bartending School, which can also aid career progression.
  • Acquire relevant certifications including the RAMP (Responsible Alcohol Management Program) Certification required by Pennsylvania for alcohol service.
  • Consider the ServSafe Alcohol Certification which is nationally recognized and can improve job prospects.
  • Start in entry-level roles within bars or restaurants to obtain experience and develop a professional network in the field.

Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Upper-Darby

Some of the prominent employers recruiting Barbacks in the area include:

  • TGI Fridays
  • Applebee's
  • Ruby Tuesday
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Establishments That Barbacks in Upper-Darby Work At

Barbacks typically find employment across various types of establishments such as:

  • Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often have steady hours and offer foundational experiences but may have moderate pay.
  • Bars and Nightclubs: These tend to offer higher tips and sometimes better hourly rates but may have late or variable hours.
  • Fast Casual Venues: These workplaces focus on quick service and may present lower wage scales.
  • Hotels and Resorts: Larger or upscale venues may offer higher salary and benefit opportunities along with more structured work hours.

The type and prestige of the establishment can notably affect a Barback’s earning potential.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Upper-Darby for Barbacks

If you are exploring careers related to Barback, here are some similar roles:

Job Title

Avg Salary

Backwaiter

$32,636

Barista

$34,825

Bartender

$37,090

These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter roles, all sharing aspects of customer service and bar support duties.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Upper-Darby

Barbacks should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements applicable to their work: