Bartender Salary in Cambridge, MA
Bartenders in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $28.09 per hour, which translates to about $1,123.60 per week, $4,868.93 per month, and $58,427.20 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Cambridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding hospitality industry and increased nightlife activity in the region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Cambridge, MA?
Bartender salaries in Cambridge vary depending on experience and skill level. Here’s an overview based on different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.77 | $710.80 | $3,074.13 | $36,889.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $28.09 | $1,123.60 | $4,868.93 | $58,427.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $44.42 | $1,776.80 | $7,680.53 | $92,273.60 |
Do Bartenders in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Cambridge typically earn tips on top of their base salary. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their total income.
Bartender Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.77 per hour, translating to about $36,961.60 per year.
Compared to this, Bartenders in Cambridge earn substantially more, with an average hourly wage of $28.09 and annual earnings around $58,427.20.
This difference can be attributed to Cambridge’s vibrant hospitality industry and higher living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Bartenders
Nearby areas also offer competitive wages for Bartenders:
- Harvard Square: $34.65 per hour
- Central Square: $28.09 per hour
Harvard Square tends to pay higher wages for Bartenders compared to Central Square, likely due to its bustling nightlife and tourist appeal.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several factors affect how much a Bartender can earn in Cambridge:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with flair and mixology skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and high-end restaurants may pay more than casual neighborhood pubs.
- Certifications: Holding credentials like TIPS Certification or ServSafe Alcohol can increase employability and salary potential.
- Tips and Location: Bartenders in busy nightlife districts or tourist areas usually earn higher tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often offer higher pay or better tips than daytime hours.
How To Become a Bartender in Cambridge
Entering the Bartending profession in Cambridge involves several key steps:
- Gain Necessary Certifications: Programs like TIPS Certification and ServSafe Alcohol are widely recognized and often required by employers to ensure responsible alcohol service.
- Develop Bartending Skills: Learning mixology, customer service, and multitasking through courses or on-the-job training is essential.
- Build Experience: Starting as a barback or in entry-level roles can help gain practical experience.
- Network Locally: Engaging with local bars and restaurants may open job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Cambridge
Cambridge hosts numerous popular establishments actively hiring Bartenders:
- Brick & Mortar
- Russell House Tavern
- Marriott International
Establishments That Bartenders in Cambridge Work At
Bartenders in Cambridge are employed across various establishments, including:
- Upscale Bars and Cocktail Lounges: Often pay the highest wages and offer generous tips.
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Provide stable work but usually with more moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer benefits and higher hourly wages.
- Restaurants: Bartending in fine dining venues can be lucrative due to higher spending clientele.
The type of establishment greatly impacts earning potential, with more prestigious venues typically offering better compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Bartenders
If you are considering career paths similar to Bartending, these roles may interest you:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which share skills and work environments with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Cambridge
Bartenders should stay informed about local labor laws and tax regulations in Massachusetts to ensure lawful and fair employment practices.
- For rules on alcohol service and licensing, visit the Massachusetts Alcoholic Beverages Control Commission.
- The Executive Office of Labor and Workforce Development provides information on wages, labor standards, and employee rights.
- For federal labor regulations and workplace standards, check the U.S. Department of Labor.