Bartender Salary in Grand Rapids, MI
Bartenders in Grand Rapids, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $20.10 per hour, which translates to about $804.00 per week, $3,484.00 per month, and $41,808.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Grand Rapids is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook for employment opportunities in this field in the region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Grand Rapids, MI?
The salary of a Bartender in Grand Rapids varies depending on their level of experience and skill, but here’s a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.48 | $499.20 | $2,161.60 | $25,958.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.10 | $804.00 | $3,484.00 | $41,808.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.69 | $1,347.60 | $5,831.40 | $69,979.20 |
Do Bartenders in Grand Rapids Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Grand Rapids typically earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. It's common for Bartenders to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and clientele. This makes tipping an essential part of their overall compensation.
Bartender Salary in Grand Rapids vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $18.00 per hour, translating to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Grand Rapids earn slightly more with an average of $20.10 per hour and $41,808 annually. This reflects the local cost of living and market demand for skilled Bartenders.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Grand Rapids for Bartenders
Looking at surrounding areas near Grand Rapids, here’s how Bartender salaries compare:
- Highland: $32.17 per hour
- Traverse City: $23.13 per hour
Bartenders in Highland have the highest pay potential nearby, offering significantly greater hourly wages than those in Grand Rapids or Traverse City.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Grand Rapids?
Several factors influence a Bartender’s salary in Grand Rapids:
- Experience and Skill Level: Skilled Bartenders with expertise in mixology and customer service can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders working at upscale bars, wineries, or busy nightclubs tend to earn more than those at casual or fast-casual venues.
- Tips and Incentives: Venues with heavy customer traffic provide more opportunities for tips, which substantially impact earnings.
- Certification and Training: Bartenders with certifications in responsible alcohol service or advanced bartending skills may increase their salary potential.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening or weekend shifts might offer higher pay or access to more lucrative tipping periods.
How To Become a Bartender in Grand Rapids
To become a successful Bartender in Grand Rapids, consider these steps:
- Complete a bartending course: Institutions like the Brooklyn Bartending School offer both in-person and online courses covering mixology and bar management.
- Obtain the Michigan Bartending Certification: This certification is required in Michigan and covers responsible alcohol service and state regulations. It is valid for three years.
- Gain practical experience: Start in entry-level roles or internships to build foundational skills and customer interaction capabilities.
- Develop strong customer service and multitasking skills: These are crucial for excelling as a Bartender in busy environments.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Grand Rapids
Some prominent local employers that frequently hire Bartenders include:
- Bell’s Brewery
- CityFlatsHotel
- Drury Hotels
Establishments That Bartenders in Grand Rapids Work At
Bartenders in Grand Rapids typically find work in various establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues provide steady work, but usually with average pay and tipping potential.
- Upscale Restaurants and Cocktail Lounges: Bartenders here may enjoy higher wages and richer tips due to the exclusive clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: These often offer competitive salaries and benefits along with tips.
- Breweries and Taprooms: Local breweries like Bell’s provide opportunities that may combine salary and tips with a fun, craft-focused environment.
The type of establishment greatly affects earning potential, with upscale and specialized venues typically offering higher pay and more lucrative tip opportunities than casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Grand Rapids for Bartenders
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality industry that share some skills with Bartenders, consider these careers:
These careers include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista—each sharing some skills and work environments with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Grand Rapids
Bartenders in Grand Rapids must comply with both Michigan state and federal labor laws regarding wages, hours, and working conditions.
- For information on state-specific employment regulations, visit the State of Michigan official website.
- For federal labor laws, including wage and hour standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive resources.