Bartender Salary in Austin, TX
Bartenders in Austin, TX, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The job demand for Bartenders in Austin is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and career growth in this vibrant hospitality market.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Austin, TX?
The salary of a Bartender in Austin can vary based on experience and place of employment. Here is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $22,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.00 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Austin Earn Tips?
Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Austin, Bartenders can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, significantly boosting their overall earnings and making it a rewarding position in terms of income potential.
Bartender Salary in Austin vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equals about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Austin earn slightly more at about $15.00 per hour and $31,200 annually. This reflects Austin’s active nightlife scene and vibrant hospitality industry driving demand and pay.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Austin for Bartenders
Bartenders in some neighborhoods near Austin earn higher hourly wages. For example:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- South Congress: $15.80 per hour
Bartenders in Downtown Austin enjoy the highest wages nearby, benefiting from busy venues and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Austin?
Several factors affect a Bartender’s salary in Austin:
- Experience: More experienced bartenders command higher wages and have access to better positions.
- Skill Level: Expertise in mixology and customer service skills can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders working in upscale bars, nightclubs, and hotels often earn more than those in casual venues.
- Tips: In busy or high-end locations, tips can significantly raise total income.
- Certification: Holding certifications may improve job prospects and wage negotiations.
How To Become a Bartender in Austin
To become a Bartender in Austin, consider these steps:
- Attend Bartending Schools: Programs like Austin Bartending School offer comprehensive training in bartending, mixology, and customer service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start working in entry-level hospitality roles or as a barback to build experience.
- Complete Certifications: Obtain the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification, which is mandatory for bartenders in Texas.
- Food Safety Training: Acquire a Food Handler's Permit to ensure you understand safety regulations when handling beverages and food.
- Consider Mixology Courses: Specialized courses such as those at the Mixology Academy of Austin can boost your skills and employability.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Austin
Austin's hospitality scene includes renowned spots hiring Bartenders like:
- The Roosevelt Room
- Midnight Cowboy
- The Driskill Bar
Establishments That Bartenders in Austin Work At
Bartenders in Austin typically work in diverse venues, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These provide steady work but often lower wages and tips.
- High-End Cocktail Bars: Higher wages and tips are common here due to clientele and drink prices.
- Nightclubs and Live Music Venues: Busy environments where tips can be particularly lucrative.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Some bartenders work in full-service restaurants or hotel bars, offering stable schedules and benefits.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with busier and upscale venues offering better compensation and tip opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Austin for Bartenders
Those interested in similar hospitality careers to Bartenders in Austin may consider the following related roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barista, and Barback positions, which share aspects of hospitality and beverage service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Austin
Bartenders in Austin should be aware of the regulations and tax requirements that govern their work environment and earnings.
- Visit the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation for state licensing and certification info.
- The Texas Workforce Commission provides important labor-related resources and employment standards.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, see the U.S. Department of Labor.