Bartender Salary in Birmingham, AL
Bartenders in Birmingham, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $14.30 per hour, which translates to about $572.00 per week, $2,478.67 per month, and $29,744.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Birmingham is growing at a promising rate of 9% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and an expanding market for hospitality services in the region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Bartender in Birmingham varies depending on their experience and the type of establishment they work in. Here’s a breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.25 | $410.00 | $1,773.33 | $21,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.30 | $572.00 | $2,478.67 | $29,744.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.27 | $690.80 | $2,954.67 | $35,900.00 |
Do Bartenders in Birmingham Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, a Bartender can expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts overall earnings depending on the establishment, shift, and clientele.
Bartender Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, translating to about $33,529.60 per year.
When compared to the national average, Bartenders in Birmingham earn slightly less, at about $14.30 per hour and $29,744 annually. This difference can be influenced by local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Bartenders
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Bartenders include:
- Hoover: $17.09 per hour
- Alabaster: $15.58 per hour
Consideration of commuting to these areas might be beneficial for Bartenders seeking higher pay close to Birmingham.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Birmingham?
Several factors influence how much a Bartender can earn in Birmingham:
- Experience and Skills: Bartenders skilled in mixology, customer service, and speed often earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, nightclubs, or high-end restaurants usually offers better pay compared to casual bars or fast-casual establishments.
- Location: Bartenders in busy nightlife districts or tourist areas tend to have access to greater tipping opportunities.
- Certifications and Education: Holding certifications in responsible alcohol service or bartending training can enhance job prospects and salary.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts might come with higher tips or shift differentials.
How To Become a Bartender in Birmingham
To begin a career as a Bartender in Birmingham, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Bartending Courses: Programs like ABC Bartending School and Birmingham Bartending School offer comprehensive training in mixology, customer service, and bar management.
- Obtain Responsible Beverage Certifications: The Alabama Responsible Vendor Program and ServSafe Alcohol Certification provide essential knowledge in safe alcohol service and liability reduction.
- Gain Hands-on Experience: Many Bartenders start in entry-level service roles such as Barback or Server to build foundational skills.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills improve tips and career advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Birmingham
Birmingham’s hospitality industry is vibrant, with several key employers actively hiring Bartenders:
- Billy's
- SSA Group, LLC
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Bartenders in Birmingham Work At
Bartenders in Birmingham typically find work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often the largest employers of Bartenders, these provide steady work but with generally moderate tips.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: Usually offer higher tips due to a more vibrant social scene and later hours.
- Restaurants and Steakhouses: Bartenders here might see a balance of salary and tipping opportunities, especially in upscale environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide competitive pay and benefits with opportunities to serve diverse clientele.
The type of establishment can greatly impact the Bartender’s income and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Bartenders
If you're interested in roles similar to Bartender, consider these closely related positions:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which involve similar hospitality and service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Birmingham
Bartenders should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements:
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For information specific to Alabama employment laws, check the Alabama Department of Labor website.