Bartender Salary in Evansville, IN
Bartenders in Evansville, IN, in 2026, earn approximately $13.33 per hour, which translates to about $533.20 per week, $2,310.53 per month, and $27,726.40 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Evansville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding hospitality and nightlife industry in the region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Evansville, IN?
The salary of a Bartender in Evansville can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but the following breakdown demonstrates typical earnings by level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,253.33 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.33 | $533.20 | $2,310.53 | $27,726.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.05 | $1,402.00 | $6,076.13 | $72,904.00 |
Do Bartenders in Evansville Earn Tips?
Bartenders generally earn tips as a significant part of their income. In Evansville, Bartenders can expect to earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the venue, customer volume, and shift times, which substantially increases overall earnings.
Bartender Salary in Evansville vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $18 per hour, translating to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Evansville make slightly less hourly at $13.33 per hour, which equates to around $27,726 annually. This difference is influenced by the local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Evansville for Bartenders
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Bartenders include:
- Downtown Evansville: $15 per hour
- East Side: $14.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Evansville or on the East Side tends to offer better pay due to busier nightlife and higher-end venues.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Evansville?
Several key factors influence the Bartender’s salary in Evansville, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bartenders with more experience, knowledge of a wide range of drink recipes, and mixology skills can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and restaurants typically offer better wages and higher tips compared to casual or fast food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Night shifts and weekends usually offer more opportunities for tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Local Demand: Bartender salaries can also be influenced by the local hospitality market and tourism trends in Evansville.
- Certifications and Training: Specialized training or certification can improve employment opportunities and salary potential.
How To Become a Bartender in Evansville
Becoming a successful Bartender in Evansville typically involves the following steps:
- Complete Bartending Training: Consider programs like the Midwest Bartenders School, which offers a comprehensive online curriculum covering responsible alcohol service and customer service, or the Brooklyn Bartending School for in-person, hands-on instruction.
- Obtain Required Certifications: In Indiana, the Indiana Bartending Certification is mandatory and covers state laws and responsible alcohol service. Also required is the Employee Permit through the Indiana Liquor License program.
- Gain Experience: Working as a Barback or in entry-level hospitality roles helps build foundational skills.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Friendly and efficient service greatly affects tip earnings and career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Evansville
Some of the leading employers seeking Bartenders in Evansville include:
- Olive Garden
- Bally's Evansville
- Gerst Bavarian Haus
- Mister B's Pizza & Wings
- Jacobs Pub
Establishments That Bartenders in Evansville Work At
Bartenders in Evansville typically work at a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fine Dining Restaurants: These locations may offer stable wages with moderate tips.
- Nightclubs and Bars: High potential for tips especially during busy hours and events.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide steady hours and benefits, sometimes with less tipping potential.
- Casinos and Entertainment Venues: Usually offer higher pay scales and tip opportunities.
The type of establishment significantly impacts overall salary due to variations in base pay, tip potential, and work schedules.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Evansville for Bartenders
Those interested in related roles similar to Bartender might also consider these careers:
These roles include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, which share related skills in beverage service and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Evansville
Bartenders in Evansville should be aware of important labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work:
- Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission – State agency overseeing alcohol permits and regulations.
- Indiana Department of Workforce Development – State agency providing employment resources and labor market information.
- U.S. Department of Labor – Federal agency overseeing labor laws and workplace regulations.