Bartender Salary in Durham, NC
Bartenders in Durham, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $19.05 per hour, which translates to about $762.00 per week, $3,302.00 per month, and $39,624.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Durham is growing positively at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy increase in opportunities for those skilled in beverage preparation and customer service in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Bartender in Durham varies depending on experience and the specific workplace. Below is a breakdown of earnings based on different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.18 | $407.20 | $1,756.53 | $21,286.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.05 | $762.00 | $3,302.00 | $39,624.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.67 | $1,426.80 | $6,174.80 | $74,073.60 |
Do Bartenders in Durham Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Durham typically earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. On average, a Bartender can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, adding a substantial amount on top of their base salary.
Bartender Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.63 per hour, which translates to approximately $36,670.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Bartenders in Durham earn a bit more, with an average hourly rate of $19.05 and an annual income of about $39,624.00.
This higher salary in Durham may reflect local demand, cost of living, and hospitality industry dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Bartenders
If you're considering areas near Durham, here are the highest-paying locations for Bartenders:
- Downtown Durham: $20.50 per hour
- Research Triangle Park: $21.00 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher hourly wages than the average for Durham, giving Bartenders better earning potential close by.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Durham?
Several key factors affect how much a Bartender can earn in Durham:
- Experience Level: More experienced Bartenders tend to earn higher wages as they develop better customer service and mixology skills.
- Skillset and Certifications: Bartenders with bartending certifications or advanced knowledge of cocktails and spirits can command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, cocktail lounges, and hotels generally offer higher salaries compared to casual or chain establishments.
- Tips and Customer Volume: Locations with higher customer traffic typically result in better tipping opportunities.
- Work Hours and Shift Types: Night shifts, weekends, or holidays may offer increased wages or tip potential.
How To Become a Bartender in Durham
Becoming a Bartender in Durham involves gaining the right education, certifications, and experience:
- Attend Bartending Training Schools: Programs like the Brooklyn Bartending School provide personalized lessons in mixology, bar tools, and customer service, along with job assistance.
- Complete Certification Courses: The ABC Bartending School offers comprehensive training with certification focusing on practical skills and responsible alcohol service.
- Fulfill State Alcohol Service Training: The North Carolina Responsible Alcohol Seller/Server Training Program (RASP) is mandatory and educates on responsible service and state regulations.
- Obtain TIPS Certification: This nationally recognized program teaches responsible alcohol service, helping to prevent intoxication and underage drinking.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting in entry-level bar positions or internships helps build skills and network within the hospitality industry.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Durham
Some prominent employers looking for Bartenders in Durham include:
- The Durham Hotel
- Mateo Bar de Tapas
- Punch Bowl Social
- The Federal
- Watts Grocery
Establishments That Bartenders in Durham Work At
Bartenders in Durham typically work at a variety of establishments, each impacting their salary potential:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Usually provide a steady flow of customers and moderate tips.
- Fast Casual Venues: Lower tipping opportunities, but possibly higher base wages.
- Upscale Cocktail Lounges and Restaurants: Often offer higher pay and better tipping potential due to premium pricing and clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually provide better benefits and sometimes higher wages, depending on the location.
The type and scale of the establishment directly influence the total compensation Bartenders receive.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Bartenders
If you're interested in career paths similar to Bartender, consider these related roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which share many skills and work environments with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Durham
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Bartenders in Durham to ensure compliance and proper financial management.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to learn about employee rights and workplace standards.
- The State website for North Carolina labor laws and workplace regulations offers guidance specific to local employment policies.
- Alcohol service and licensing regulations can be found at the North Carolina Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission.