Bartender Salary in Atlanta, GA
Bartenders in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.80 per hour, which translates to about $752.00 per week, $3,258.67 per month, and $39,104.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Atlanta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and need for skilled Bartenders in the area.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Bartender in Atlanta can vary depending on experience and place of work. To give a clearer picture, here are typical earnings based on experience levels, accounting for a standard 40-hour workweek.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Bartenders in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn substantial tips, which can significantly increase their overall income. On average, Bartenders in Atlanta might make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Bartender Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average hourly wage of about $17.90 and an annual salary near $37,232.
Comparing this with Atlanta, Bartenders earn slightly more at $18.80 per hour and approximately $39,104 annually, suggesting Atlanta offers a competitive compensation for Bartenders above the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Bartenders
Nearby areas around Atlanta offer noteworthy differences in salary for Bartenders, including:
- Marietta: $28.00 per hour
- Covington: $21.50 per hour
Bartenders willing to commute or relocate to Marietta can expect significantly higher hourly pay, while Covington also pays well above Atlanta's average.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Atlanta?
Several factors play a significant role in determining how much a Bartender can earn in Atlanta:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders who are proficient in mixology and customer service tend to have higher earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders working in upscale bars, luxury hotels, or high-volume venues generally enjoy better pay and more tips than those in casual or fast-casual settings.
- Licensing and Certifications: Possessing relevant certifications, such as alcohol awareness or bartending courses, can influence salary positively.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Location: Establishments in busy or affluent parts of Atlanta typically pay more and generate higher tips.
How To Become a Bartender in Atlanta
To start a career as a Bartender in Atlanta, aspiring individuals should consider the following steps:
- Complete Bartending Training: Programs like the Atlanta Bartending School offer comprehensive courses covering drink mixing, bartending duties, alcohol awareness, and customer service, with flexible schedules and job placement assistance.
- Obtain Certification: In Georgia, the Georgia Bartending Certification is required for Bartenders, valid for three years and needing renewal before expiration.
- Meet Legal Requirements: Although the minimum age to serve alcohol in Georgia is 18, Bartenders must be at least 21 to serve in establishments where 75% or more of revenue is from on-premises alcohol sales.
- Practice and Gain Experience: Entry-level jobs in bars or events can help develop hands-on skills.
- Consider Online or Alternative Courses: Schools like the Brooklyn Bartending School provide online and in-person courses to enhance skills and credentials.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Atlanta
The following employers in Atlanta are known to hire skilled Bartenders:
- Four Seasons
- Red Lobster
- Chili's Grill & Bar
Establishments That Bartenders in Atlanta Work At
Bartenders in Atlanta are employed in various types of establishments, each influencing income possibilities:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Often provide steady work with modest pay and tipping potential.
- Upscale Bars and Nightclubs: Typically offer higher wages and substantial tips due to a potentially wealthier clientele and busy environment.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide better pay rates and benefits, including opportunities for tips from events and room service.
- Special Events and Catering Companies: Can be lucrative but may offer variable hours and inconsistent work.
The establishment type affects both base pay and tip income, making choice of workplace important for overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Bartenders
Those interested in similar hospitality roles related to Bartending might consider:
The roles listed here include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, which share aspects of customer interaction, drink preparation, and hospitality service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Atlanta
Bartenders should be aware of federal, state, and local labor rules and tax requirements affecting their work:
- Learn about employment standards and wage laws on the Federal Department of Labor website.
- Georgia-specific labor resources and regulations are available at the Georgia Department of Labor site.
- Local employment rules and resources can be found on the City of Atlanta's official page.