Bartender Salary in Bismarck, ND
Bartenders in Bismarck, ND, in 2025, earn approximately $15.83 per hour, which translates to about $633.20 per week, $2,743.87 per month, and $32,926.40 per year.
The employment outlook for Bartenders in Bismarck is positive, with job demand growing at about 9% per year, indicating a strengthening market for hospitality and beverage service in this region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Bismarck, ND?
The salary of a Bartender in Bismarck varies depending on experience and establishment. Here’s a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Bismarck Earn Tips?
Absolutely. Bartenders in Bismarck typically earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly supplement their base pay, making the role financially more rewarding.
Bartender Salary in Bismarck vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, or about $33,529.60 per year.
Comparing this to Bismarck, ND, Bartenders earn slightly less on average, with an hourly wage of $15.83 and an annual salary of $32,926.40. This small difference reflects local cost of living and market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bismarck for Bartenders
Looking at nearby areas around Bismarck, here are the average hourly wages for Bartenders:
- Downtown Bismarck: $16.50 per hour
- North Bismarck: $15.80 per hour
Bartenders working in Downtown Bismarck tend to enjoy the highest wages, likely due to the concentration of bars and nightlife in that area.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Bismarck?
Experience and Skill Level: Bartenders with extensive experience and strong mixology skills often command higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Higher-end cocktail lounges and upscale restaurants usually offer better pay compared to casual bars or smaller venues.
Shift Timing and Location: Working in busy nightlife districts or during peak hours can lead to higher earnings through tips and sometimes higher base wages.
Certifications and Training: Holding certifications in responsible alcohol service or hospitality management may boost pay.
Customer Service Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills can increase tips significantly, impacting overall salary.
How To Become a Bartender in Bismarck
Becoming a Bartender in Bismarck involves several important steps:
- Education and Training: Enroll in programs like the Bismarck State College Hospitality Management Program, which offers courses in beverage service and bartending skills.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Complete mandatory trainings such as the ND Safety Council Alcohol Server Training and North Dakota Alcohol Server Training, essential for responsible service in the state.
- Earn National Certifications: The ServSafe Alcohol Certification is nationally recognized and often valued by employers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting with an entry-level position or apprenticeship in a bar or restaurant helps develop hands-on expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Bismarck
Some of the prominent employers looking for Bartenders in Bismarck include:
- The Toasted Frog
- Blarney Stone
- Lucky's 13 Pub & Grill
- Staircase Brewing
- Backstage Bar & Grill
Establishments That Bartenders in Bismarck Work At
Bartenders typically find work in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues often provide steady hours and regular tips, though pay rates may be moderate.
- Upscale Lounges and Restaurants: Higher-end venues often pay better salaries and have bigger tipping potential due to a wealthier clientele.
- Nightclubs and Entertainment Venues: These can offer high tips but may involve late-night hours and more demanding work environments.
- Hotels and Resorts: Bartenders here may receive benefits and steady schedules with competitive pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence both base pay and earning through tips for Bartenders.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bismarck for Bartenders
If you’re interested in careers similar to Bartenders, consider these related roles that also thrive in the hospitality industry:
These include Bar Manager, Bartender, and Barback positions, which share overlapping skills and can offer alternative career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Bismarck
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Bartenders working in Bismarck.
- Visit the Official website of the state of North Dakota to access state-specific labor and employment regulations.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides comprehensive data on employment and wages for hospitality roles.
- For federal labor laws and standards, the U.S. Department of Labor is the authoritative source.