Bartender Salary in Huntington, WV
Bartenders in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Huntington is growing at a healthy rate of about 9% per year, indicating a rising need for skilled professionals in this service-oriented role.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Huntington, WV?
Bartender salaries in Huntington vary widely depending on experience, location, and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Huntington Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Huntington typically earn tips which can significantly boost their income. They can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, sometimes more depending on the establishment and clientele, making tipping a crucial part of their overall earnings.
Bartender Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, translating to about $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to this, Bartenders in Huntington earn somewhat less at $13.90 per hour and $28,912.00 annually, likely reflecting regional differences in cost of living and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Bartenders
Salary levels vary within Huntington's neighborhoods:
- Downtown Huntington: $15.50 per hour
- Southside: $14.80 per hour
Bartenders working in Downtown Huntington enjoy higher average hourly wages than those in the Southside area, highlighting the impact of location within the city.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Huntington?
Bartender salaries in Huntington are shaped by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with advanced mixology skills generally earn higher wages and attract better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale bars, hotels, or resorts typically offers better pay than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Bartenders working nights, weekends, or holidays may receive shift differentials or higher tipping opportunities.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications or formal training can improve employability and wage potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: The regional cost of living and demand for bartending services in Huntington also influence salaries.
How To Become a Bartender in Huntington
To build a successful career as a Bartender in Huntington, consider these steps:
- Hospitality Management Education: Enroll in the Hospitality Management program at Mountwest Community & Technical College which includes beverage management and bartending skills.
- Specialized Bartending Training: Attend the Huntington School of Bartending for mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol service.
- Mandatory Certification: Obtain the West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration (ABCA) Certification required for Bartenders statewide.
- Safety Training: Complete the ServSafe Alcohol Certification program for recognized training in responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Work Experience: Start as a Barback or server to gain hands-on experience before moving fully into bartending roles.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Huntington
The following local employers frequently hire for Bartender positions:
- Marshall University Dining Services
- Pullman Plaza Hotel
- Fat Patty's
Establishments That Bartenders in Huntington Work At
Bartenders typically find employment across a range of venues including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often offer steady hours but moderate pay and tip potential.
- Fast Casual and Grills: These may offer less tipping but provide valuable service experience.
- Hotels and Restaurants: Upscale establishments generally pay better hourly wages and offer higher tipping opportunities.
- Event Venues and Nightclubs: Can offer high tip potential, especially during busy nights and events.
The type of establishment plays a big role in earnings, with upscale and busy venues typically providing higher income opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Bartenders
If you're exploring other roles related to Bartending, you might consider these similar careers:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, all roles connected to the beverage service industry with varying responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Huntington
Bartenders in Huntington should familiarize themselves with important labor laws and tax regulations effective in their work environment.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for information on wage and hour laws.
- The State of West Virginia's Department of Labor website provides local labor law resources and worker rights information.
- For alcohol service rules and licensing, check the West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration's official site.