Bartender Salary in Concord, CA
Bartenders in Concord, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Concord is growing positively at about 13% per year, reflecting an expanding market for hospitality and nightlife services in the area.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Concord, CA?
The salary of a Bartender in Concord can vary widely depending on experience, skills, and type of establishment. Here is a breakdown by experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.42 | $536.80 | $2,322.13 | $27,865.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $32.70 | $1,308.00 | $5,656.00 | $67,776.00 |
Do Bartenders in Concord Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their regular wages. They can expect to make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the shift, the establishment, and customer generosity. Tips can significantly enhance their total earnings.
Bartender Salary in Concord vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn around $16.12 per hour, which adds up to approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Concord earn slightly more at an average wage of $16.50 per hour and about $34,320 annually. This reflects Concord’s moderately higher cost of living and demand for hospitality service staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Concord for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer a bit more competitive pay for Bartenders:
- Downtown Concord: $17.50 per hour
- Todos Santos Plaza: $18.00 per hour
Both locations have vibrant nightlife and social scenes, which contribute to higher wages and tipping opportunities for Bartenders.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Concord?
Several factors can affect how much a Bartender earns in Concord:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders who have honed their mixology skills and customer service tend to receive higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders working in upscale bars, nightclubs, and hotels generally earn more than those in casual or fast-casual restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often bring higher pay or better tips due to increased customer flow.
- Certifications and Training: Having formal training or certifications in beverage management or mixology can increase salary potential.
- Location Within the City: Downtown and popular entertainment districts usually offer higher pay.
How To Become a Bartender in Concord
Starting a career as a Bartender in Concord involves several important steps:
- Complete Bartending Training: Enroll in programs such as the Diablo Valley College Culinary Arts Program, which offers courses in mixology and beverage management, providing foundational skills.
- Attend Specialized Schools: The Bartending School of America - Concord provides intensive training in bartending techniques, cocktail recipes, and customer service.
- Get Required Certifications: Acquire the Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification, mandatory in California for alcohol servers, which focuses on responsible alcohol service practices.
- Obtain a Food Handler's Card: This is required for all food and beverage workers in California to ensure knowledge of food safety regulations.
- Gain Experience: Working or interning in bars, restaurants, or clubs to develop practical skills and professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Concord
Here are some of the notable employers currently looking for Bartenders in Concord:
- Eureka! Restaurant Group
- Yard House
- Dave & Buster's
- Chili's
- BJ's Restaurants
Establishments That Bartenders in Concord Work At
Bartenders in Concord find employment across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Restaurants: These venues typically offer steady work but may have lower base pay and tips.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Often the most lucrative, Bartenders enjoy higher tips due to late-night crowds.
- Hotels and Resorts: These generally offer stable hours with moderate to high wages.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: May offer consistent hours but usually lower pay and tip income.
The nature of the establishment greatly impacts the Bartender’s earning potential, with higher-end venues paying more and presenting more opportunities for tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Concord for Bartenders
If you are interested in careers related to Bartending, consider the following similar positions:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which share skills and work environments with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Concord
Bartenders should familiarize themselves with labor laws and taxation regulations relevant to their work:
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and employment regulations.
- The California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control provides licensing and compliance information for alcohol service.
- For federal labor laws and resources, the U.S. Department of Labor website is essential.