Bartender Salary in Des Moines, IA
Bartenders in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $17.67 per hour, which translates to about $706.80 per week, $3,062.80 per month, and $36,753.60 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Des Moines is looking up with a solid growth rate of about 9% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled professionals in the hospitality and entertainment industries.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Bartender in Des Moines can vary widely depending on experience, establishment type, and location within the city. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.93 | $397.20 | $1,718.40 | $20,678.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.67 | $706.80 | $3,062.80 | $36,753.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.45 | $1,258.00 | $5,446.33 | $65,416.00 |
Do Bartenders in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Des Moines typically earn a significant portion of their income from tips. On average, a Bartender can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, sometimes more depending on the establishment and customer traffic. Tips substantially boost overall earnings for this role.
Bartender Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, which translates to about $33,529.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Des Moines earn a bit more, with an average hourly wage of $17.67 and annual earnings of approximately $36,753.60. This suggests that Des Moines offers competitive pay for Bartenders relative to other U.S. cities.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Bartenders
Looking at nearby areas, the pay scale for Bartenders varies:
- Ankeny: $18.99 per hour
- West Des Moines: $14.41 per hour
Ankeny offers higher hourly wages compared to West Des Moines, which may influence where Bartenders seek employment based on compensation.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors impact how much a Bartender earns in Des Moines, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with strong mixology skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, clubs, and restaurants often pay better than casual or fast-food venues.
- Location: Bartenders working in busy downtown areas or popular nightlife districts can earn more due to higher customer volume and tipping potential.
- Certifications: Holding certifications related to alcohol service or hospitality can improve opportunities and wages.
- Shift Hours: Night or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or increased tip income.
How To Become a Bartender in Des Moines
Getting started as a Bartender in Des Moines typically involves several key steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete training programs such as the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Hospitality Management Program which includes beverage management and mixology courses.
- Attend bartender training through the Iowa Restaurant Association offering essential instruction on responsible alcohol service and customer skills.
- Obtain the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division (ABD) Alcohol Server Certification required for anyone serving alcohol in the state.
- Consider the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification as an added credential valued by employers.
- Gain on-the-job experience through entry-level bartender or barback roles to develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Des Moines
Des Moines hosts a variety of establishments frequently hiring Bartenders, including:
- Eatery A
- Flix Brewhouse
- Renaissance Hotels
- Applebee's
- Flagship Restaurant Group
Establishments That Bartenders in Des Moines Work At
Bartenders in Des Moines can be found in different types of venues, each with varying impacts on salary:
- Casual Restaurants and Bars: Often provide steady hours but may offer moderate pay and tip income.
- Fast Casual Venues: Less common for bartending roles but still provide employment opportunities, typically at lower wages.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Bars: Tend to offer the highest salaries and tip potential due to affluent clientele.
- Nightclubs and Event Spaces: Can offer significant tip earnings and sometimes higher base pay during peak hours.
The type of establishment significantly influences Bartender compensation, with upscale and busy venues generally providing the greatest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Bartenders
If you're considering roles similar to Bartender, here are some related hospitality positions worth exploring:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, each offering distinct career paths within the hospitality and beverage service sectors.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Des Moines
Bartenders must comply with various labor laws and tax regulations at the state and federal levels.
- For information on alcohol laws, licensing requirements, and server training, visit the State of Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division website.
- Details about employment laws, job training, and labor market data are available from Iowa Workforce Development.
- The U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive resources on federal labor laws and wage standards.