Bartender Salary in Cary, NC
Bartenders in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Cary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities within the hospitality and service industries in this area.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Bartender in Cary varies based on experience level and establishment type. Here's a breakdown of wages across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Bartenders in Cary Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. It is common for Bartenders to earn an extra $10 per hour in tips or even more during busy shifts, significantly increasing their overall income.
Bartender Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of about $18.05 per hour, which translates to roughly $37,544.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Cary earn less with an average of $11.00 per hour and $22,880.00 annually. This difference can be due to the local cost of living, demand, and the scale of hospitality services available in Cary, NC.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Bartenders:
- Downtown Cary: $12.50 per hour
- Preston: $13.00 per hour
Bartenders working in Preston tend to earn the most among the listed nearby areas, possibly due to a higher concentration of upscale venues or greater demand.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Cary?
Several factors can influence how much a Bartender earns in Cary:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with knowledge of mixology and customer service tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, hotels, and nightclubs often pay better than casual or chain restaurants.
- Location: Venues in higher-traffic or affluent areas usually offer higher pay rates and more tips.
- Certifications: Certifications such as the North Carolina Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Training Program (RASP) or ServSafe Alcohol Certification may enhance employability and salary prospects.
- Shift and Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays can sometimes yield higher compensations or tips.
How To Become a Bartender in Cary
To build a successful career as a Bartender in Cary, consider the following steps:
- Training Courses: Enroll in bartending schools such as the Brooklyn Bartending School, which offers both online and in-person classes in Cary, or the ABC Bartending School that provides mixology and alcohol service training.
- Certification: Obtain state-recognized credentials like the North Carolina Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Training Program (RASP) or the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification to comply with local regulations and improve your resume.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions in local restaurants or bars can help build practical skills.
- Networking and Job Search: Regularly check hospitality job boards and connect with local venues.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Cary
Some of the key employers looking for Bartenders in Cary include:
- Red Lobster
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
- Hickory Tavern
Establishments That Bartenders in Cary Work At
Bartenders find employment across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: These offer steady employment but may have lower pay scales and tips.
- Fast Casual Dining: Some may have bar areas with bartenders, often with moderate wages.
- Bars and Nightclubs: These venues generally provide higher tipping potential and occasionally better wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger operations may offer more regular hours and potential benefits, often with competitive pay.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Bartender’s overall income due to variations in hourly wages and tipping cultures.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Bartenders
If you're interested in related roles within hospitality, consider these similar positions:
These careers include Barback, Bar Manager, and Barista—roles which share similar skill sets and industry environments with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Cary
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is crucial for Bartenders working in Cary.
- The U.S. Department of Labor offers comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations relevant to all workers in the U.S.
- The North Carolina Department of Labor provides state-specific workplace standards, safety guidelines, and employment laws.
- For regulations specific to alcohol service, the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission website provides essential information on licensing and compliance.