Bartender Salary in Bellevue, WA
Bartenders in Bellevue, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.65 per hour, which translates to about $866.00 per week, $3,752.67 per month, and $45,032.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Bellevue is growing at a healthy rate of 9% per year, reflecting an increasing need for skilled professionals in the hospitality and entertainment sectors within the city.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Bellevue, WA?
The salary of a Bartender in Bellevue varies depending on experience and skill level. Here is an overview of the potential earnings across different stages of a Bartender’s career in Bellevue, WA.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.66 | $666.40 | $2,886.53 | $34,636.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.65 | $866.00 | $3,752.67 | $45,032.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.22 | $1,808.80 | $7,818.93 | $93,417.60 |
Do Bartenders in Bellevue Earn Tips?
Bartenders often earn tips as a significant part of their income. In Bellevue, a Bartender can routinely earn an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which substantially increases overall earnings beyond their base salary.
Bartender Salary in Bellevue vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of about $16.12 per hour, equating to around $33,529.60 per year.
In comparison, Bartenders in Bellevue enjoy a higher average wage of $21.65 per hour and $45,032 annually, indicating that Bellevue offers a more lucrative market for Bartenders than the national average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bellevue for Bartenders
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Bartenders, including:
- Downtown Bellevue: $22.28 per hour
- Lake Hills: $19.46 per hour
Among these, Bartenders in Downtown Bellevue tend to earn the highest wages, benefiting from the area's bustling nightlife and numerous hospitality venues.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Bellevue?
The salary of a Bartender in Bellevue can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with advanced mixology skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders working in upscale lounges or high-end hotels tend to earn more than those in casual bars or fast casual restaurants.
- Location Within the City: Bartenders located in popular areas like Downtown Bellevue usually have higher earning potential due to more clientele and tip opportunities.
- Certification and Training: Holding professional certifications in mixology or beverage management can boost earnings.
- Work Hours: Evening and weekend shifts in busy venues often come with higher pay or better tip potential.
How To Become a Bartender in Bellevue
Starting a career as a Bartender in Bellevue involves several important steps and training opportunities.
- Enroll in Bartending School of Seattle: Offers comprehensive training in mixology and bar management and is conveniently located near Bellevue.
- Take courses at Seattle Central College Culinary Program: Provides specialized courses in beverage management and mixology accessible to Bellevue residents.
- Obtain the Washington State MAST Permit: A mandatory permit for alcohol servers in Washington State that ensures responsible beverage service.
- Complete the ServSafe Alcohol Certification: A nationally recognized program focusing on responsible alcohol service and accepted throughout Washington.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Bellevue
Several well-known companies in Bellevue actively hire Bartenders, including:
- JOEY Restaurants
- Watermark Retirement Communities
- Red Robin
- Nordstrom
- Cinemark
Establishments That Bartenders in Bellevue Work At
Bartenders in Bellevue typically work at a wide variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Bars and Lounges: These offer steady shifts and typically moderate wages with good tipping potential.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Bartenders here may earn less in tips but benefit from consistent busy hours.
- High-End Hotels and Resorts: These establishments usually offer higher base pay and excellent tip opportunities due to affluent clientele.
- Nightclubs and Event Venues: Often provide the highest tip income during peak hours and special events.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Bartender’s salary, with upscale venues generally providing the best overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bellevue for Bartenders
If you are interested in hospitality careers similar to Bartending, consider these related positions:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, roles that share common hospitality skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Bellevue
Bartenders should be aware of important local and state labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and manage their employment effectively.
- For comprehensive labor statistics and occupational outlooks, visit the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics website.
- The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries provides detailed information on state labor laws, including wage and hour rules.
- Consult the City of Bellevue's official website for local business regulations and resources.