Bartender Salary in Boulder, CO
Bartenders in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $23.00 per hour, which translates to about $920.00 per week, $3,986.67 per month, and $47,840.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Boulder is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Bartender in Boulder varies mainly based on experience level, establishment, and other factors. Below is an overview of pay scales across typical experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.57 | $622.80 | $2,700.20 | $32,361.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.00 | $920.00 | $3,966.67 | $47,840.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.87 | $1,594.80 | $6,914.80 | $83,030.40 |
Do Bartenders in Boulder Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn a significant portion of their income through tips. On average, a Bartender in Boulder can expect to earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, which can substantially boost their overall earnings.
Bartender Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.83 per hour, which translates to about $37,086.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Boulder earn higher wages, at about $23.00 per hour and $47,840.00 annually, reflecting the local cost of living and hospitality market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Bartenders
Nearby areas that offer competitive salaries for Bartenders include:
- Downtown Boulder: $25.00 per hour
- Pearl Street Mall: $24.50 per hour
Working in these central locations might offer slight pay advantages due to the volume of customers and upscale clientele.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Boulder?
Several key factors affect how much a Bartender can earn in Boulder:
- Experience and mixology skills: More experienced Bartenders with advanced knowledge of drink preparation often command higher wages.
- Type of establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, and restaurants tend to pay more than casual pubs or fast-casual restaurants.
- Tips and customer volume: Bartenders working in busy venues with generous patrons typically earn more through tips.
- Certifications: Having certifications such as TIPS or the Colorado Responsible Vendor Program can improve job prospects and pay.
- Shift timing: Late-night or weekend shifts might come with increased pay or bonus tips.
How To Become a Bartender in Boulder
Starting a career as a Bartender in Boulder generally involves the following steps:
- Complete training courses: Take professional bartending classes such as those at Brooklyn Bartending School, which offers hands-on training and job placement assistance.
- Consider culinary arts programs: Institutions like the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts offer courses that can enhance your bartending skills.
- Obtain required certifications: Certifications like the Colorado Responsible Vendor Program and TIPS Certification are important for legal and responsible alcohol service.
- Gain experience: Work in entry-level positions at bars or restaurants to develop skills and industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Boulder
Some notable establishments frequently hiring Bartenders in Boulder include:
- The Bitter Bar
- Jax Fish House & Oyster Bar
- The Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
- Oak at Fourteenth
- The Post Brewing Co.
Establishments That Bartenders in Boulder Work At
Bartenders in Boulder find work across a variety of settings, including:
- Casual bars and pubs: Typically offer stable hours and moderate wages, with usual tip income.
- Upscale restaurants: Often provide higher base wages and better tips due to a refined clientele.
- Nightclubs and event venues: Potentially higher tips, especially during busy events and weekend nights.
- Fast-casual establishments: May have fewer opportunities for tips, resulting in lower overall income.
The type and prestige of the establishment can greatly influence earned wages and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Bartenders
If you are interested in roles similar to Bartender, consider these related careers in hospitality:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which share overlapping skills and workplace environments with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Boulder
Bartenders should be aware of both state and local laws to understand their rights and responsibilities:
- Visit the official state website of Colorado for regulations on employment standards and alcohol licensing.
- Check out the city of Boulder website for local ordinances and business regulations.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor laws and wage standards.