Bartender Salary in Fayetteville, AR
Bartenders in Fayetteville, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.46 per hour, which translates to about $738.40 per week, $3,199.73 per month, and $38,396.80 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Fayetteville is growing positively at about 9% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled professionals in this vibrant hospitality sector local market.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Fayetteville, AR?
The salary of a Bartender in Fayetteville can vary based on experience and the establishment, but the following provides a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.46 | $738.40 | $3,199.73 | $38,396.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.38 | $1,335.20 | $5,776.53 | $69,382.40 |
Do Bartenders in Fayetteville, AR Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. It's common for Bartenders to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income depending on the venue and customer volume.
Bartender Salary in Fayetteville, AR vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, or approximately $33,529.60 annually.
In comparison, Bartenders in Fayetteville, AR, earn slightly higher than the national average at about $18.46 per hour and $38,396.80 yearly, reflecting local demand and hospitality industry dynamics.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville, AR for Bartenders
If you consider nearby cities, the pay for Bartenders varies slightly:
- Conway: $19.86 per hour
- Jonesboro: $18.16 per hour
Conway offers the highest pay in the region, making it a competitive location for Bartenders seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Fayetteville, AR?
Several factors influence a Bartender’s salary in Fayetteville, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Bartenders with advanced mixology and customer service skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, luxury bars, or resorts often leads to better compensation compared to casual venues.
- Tips and Customer Volume: Busy venues with generous customers can dramatically increase overall earnings via tips.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of relevant certifications related to alcohol service can positively impact pay.
- Work Schedule: Night or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials, affecting salary.
How To Become a Bartender in Fayetteville, AR
Here are key steps to start and grow your career as a Bartender in Fayetteville:
- Pursue Hospitality and Beverage Education: Programs like the University of Arkansas Hospitality Management Program offer courses in beverage management and mixology, providing a solid foundation.
- Enroll in Practical Culinary Courses: The Northwest Arkansas Community College Culinary Arts Program includes classes on beverage service and bar operations to gain hands-on skills.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquire an Arkansas Alcohol Beverage Control Permit to legally serve alcohol in the state.
- Complete Responsible Service Training: Certifications such as ServSafe Alcohol Certification train you on legal responsibilities and best practices for serving alcohol responsibly.
- Gain Experience: Start working in bars, restaurants, or hospitality establishments to develop your bartending skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Fayetteville, AR
Some of the notable employers looking for Bartenders in Fayetteville include:
- Theo's Fayetteville
- Bordinos Restaurant and Wine Bar
- JJ's Grill
Establishments That Bartenders in Fayetteville, AR Work At
Bartenders find employment in various hospitality settings such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These often offer steady hours but may have lower base pay and tip potential.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Known for higher tip income and sometimes better hourly wages due to late hours.
- Fine Dining and Wine Bars: Tend to pay Bartenders more given the upscale clientele and specialized drink knowledge needed.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can provide stable employment with benefits and premium pay for experienced Bartenders.
The type of establishment significantly impacts both the base salary and tips a Bartender can earn, making workplace choice a key career consideration.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville, AR for Bartenders
If you are interested in similar roles within hospitality, here are a few closely related positions:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which share similar work environments and skill sets with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Fayetteville, AR
Bartenders should be aware of both federal and state regulations regarding employment and taxes to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on worker rights, minimum wage, overtime, and more.
- The State of Arkansas official website provides state-specific labor laws, workplace safety regulations, and tax information relevant for workers in the hospitality industry.