Bartender Salary in Athens, GA
Bartenders in Athens, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.70 per hour, which translates to about $588.00 per week, $2,548.00 per month, and $30,576.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Athens is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job seekers in this profession in the region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Athens, GA?
The salary of a Bartender in Athens varies with experience, skills, and establishment type. Below is an overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings based on different experience 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) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,548.00 | $30,576.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.90 | $796.00 | $3,433.33 | $41,392.00 |
Do Bartenders in Athens, GA Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Athens often earn significant tips that can amount to an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, boosting their overall income substantially beyond their regular wages.
Bartender Salary in Athens vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.93 per hour, translating to approximately $37,294.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Athens earn a bit less, at about $14.70 per hour and $30,576 annually. This difference might be influenced by local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Bartenders
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Bartenders include:
- Downtown Athens: $15.50 per hour
- Five Points: $17.60 per hour
Bartenders working in these areas can expect better compensation reflective of the busier nightlife and hospitality scenes.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Athens?
Experience and skill level greatly affect how much a Bartender can earn. Those with advanced mixology skills or knowledge of craft cocktails often command higher wages.
Type of establishment is another critical factor; bartenders at upscale bars, lounges, and nightclubs generally earn more than those at casual or fast-food establishments.
Shift timings can also impact salary, with night shifts or weekend shifts sometimes offering higher pay or more tipping opportunities.
Location within Athens influences pay, as busier districts with higher clientele volumes tend to reward bartenders better.
How To Become a Bartender in Athens
Starting a career as a Bartender in Athens can be facilitated by certain educational and certification steps.
Programs like the Brooklyn Bartending School and ABC Bartending School offer comprehensive training that equips candidates with practical bartending skills and job placement support.
Certification requirements include obtaining a Georgia Alcohol Server Permit, which mandates completing a state-approved training course on responsible alcohol service.
Additionally, pursuing the ServSafe Alcohol Certification, a nationally recognized credential, can significantly enhance credibility and employment prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Athens
Some of the prominent employers currently seeking Bartenders in Athens include:
- Graduate Athens
- Chili's
- Benson's Hospitality Group
- Tend
- Dairy Queen
Establishments That Bartenders in Athens Work At
Bartenders in Athens typically work at a variety of establishments including:
- Casual dining restaurants: These provide consistent shifts and moderate tipping opportunities.
- Bars and pubs: Usually offer opportunities for higher tips and more dynamic work environments.
- Nightclubs and lounges: Tend to pay higher wages and provide significant tipping potential.
- Hotels and resorts: These employers may offer benefits and steadier schedules but variable tipping.
The type of establishment influences not just salary but also the intensity and style of work, with upscale venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens for Bartenders
If you are exploring similar careers related to bartending, consider these roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista roles, which share related skills and may provide alternative career paths within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Athens
Bartenders in Athens should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- The Georgia Department of Labor offers comprehensive resources on state labor laws and employment services.
- The official website of Athens-Clarke County provides local government information and services relevant to workers.