Bartender Salary in Bend, OR
Bartenders in Bend, OR, in 2026, earn approximately $21.34 per hour, which translates to about $853.60 per week, $3,698.93 per month, and $44,387.20 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Bend is growing steadily at about 9% per year, reflecting an increasing need for skilled hospitality professionals in the local beverage and entertainment industry.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Bend, OR?
The salary for Bartenders in Bend varies depending on experience, skills, and venue type. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,429.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.34 | $853.60 | $3,698.93 | $44,387.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.88 | $1,755.20 | $7,614.13 | $91,270.40 |
Do Bartenders in Bend Earn Tips?
Bartenders in Bend typically earn significant tips on top of their base salary, often averaging an extra $10 per hour in tips. This can considerably boost overall earnings each day, making the position more lucrative than the base wage alone might suggest.
Bartender Salary in Bend vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, which translates to about $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Bend earn noticeably more, at about $21.34 per hour and $44,387.20 annually. This reflects the local market's favorable pay scales and the higher cost of living in Bend, OR.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bend for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Bartenders:
- Downtown Bend: $22.50 per hour
- Old Mill District: $21.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Bend offers the highest pay among local areas, making it an attractive location for Bartenders seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Bend?
Several factors affect how much a Bartender can earn in Bend:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Bartenders with strong mixology skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders working in upscale restaurants, popular bars, or resorts generally make more than those in casual or fast-food venues.
- Certifications: Training in responsible alcohol service, such as OLCC permits or TIPS certification, might open doors to higher-paying jobs.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts often come with increased tips, supplementing base pay.
- Communication and Customer Service: Bartenders with exceptional people skills can attract more customers and thus increase tip earnings.
How To Become a Bartender in Bend
To pursue a career as a Bartender in Bend, consider these steps:
- Complete Bartending Training: Programs like those at Bartending School of Bend provide hands-on mixology and customer service skills.
- Enroll in Hospitality Management Courses: Central Oregon Community College offers courses in hospitality management including beverage operations.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Secure your Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) Service Permit for legal alcohol service.
- Gain Experience on the Job: Start as a barback or server to learn the environment before becoming a full Bartender.
- Consider TIPS Certification: This is a nationally recognized program focusing on responsible alcohol service and intervention.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Bend
Some of the top employers seeking skilled Bartenders in Bend include:
- McMenamins Old St. Francis School
- 10 Barrel Brewing Co.
- Deschutes Brewery
- The Blacksmith Restaurant
- Zydeco Kitchen & Cocktails
Establishments That Bartenders in Bend Work At
Bartenders in Bend typically work in a variety of hospitality settings such as:
- Bars and Nightclubs: Often offer higher tips and dynamic environments, leading to potentially higher overall earnings.
- Restaurants (Casual to Fine Dining): Salary can vary widely; fine dining usually pays more but may have fewer tipping opportunities depending on the service style.
- Breweries and Tasting Rooms: These establishments may provide steady income and a unique work setting, with wages factoring in the brand and popularity.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues often offer better wages, benefits, and growth opportunities.
The type of establishment directly impacts the Bartender's salary and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bend for Bartenders
If you are exploring hospitality roles similar to Bartender, consider these career options that also involve customer service and beverage expertise.
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, all sharing overlapping skills and work environments with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Bend
Bartenders should be familiar with federal and state labor laws to protect their rights and understand their tax responsibilities.
- Visit the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) website for regulations on liquor laws, licensing, and service guidelines.
- Consult the Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) for Oregon employment laws, wage standards, and worker rights.
- Check the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor standards, including minimum wage and overtime regulations.