Bartender Salary in Huntsville, AL
Bartenders in Huntsville, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.19 per hour, which translates to about $647.60 per week, $2,806.27 per month, and $33,675.20 per year.
The job outlook for Bartenders in Huntsville is looking up with a positive growth rate of 9% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled Bartenders in the area.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Huntsville, AL?
The salary of a Bartender in Huntsville varies depending on experience and employer type. Here’s an overview of 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 | $2,433.33 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Huntsville Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders often earn tips as a significant portion of their income. In Huntsville, Bartenders can make approximately $10 per hour in tips on average, which can substantially increase total earnings.
Bartender Salary in Huntsville vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Bartenders is around $16.12 per hour, equating to about $33,529.60 annually.
In comparison, Bartenders in Huntsville earn slightly above the national average at $16.19 per hour and $33,675.20 per year, reflecting competitive pay for the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntsville for Bartenders
Looking at nearby districts within Huntsville, salaries for Bartenders vary slightly:
- Downtown Huntsville: $17.50 per hour
- MidCity District: $16.80 per hour
Bartenders working downtown may enjoy higher pay due to the area's busier nightlife and demand for skilled service.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Huntsville?
Several factors impact how much a Bartender can earn in Huntsville, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Veteran Bartenders with strong mixology skills usually earn more than entry-level workers.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, clubs, and restaurants typically offer better pay compared to casual or chain venues.
- Shift Timing and Location: Bartenders on night and weekend shifts or in busy areas generally earn more due to higher customer volume and tipping opportunities.
- Certifications: Training such as the Alabama Responsible Vendor Program or ServSafe Alcohol Certification can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Bartender in Huntsville
To embark on a Bartender career in Huntsville, consider the following steps:
- Attend Bartending School: Schools like Alabama Bartending School offer comprehensive mixology and customer service training.
- Enroll in Hospitality Programs: Programs such as Calhoun Community College's Hospitality Program provide valuable education in beverage service and hospitality management.
- Obtain Certifications: Completing the Alabama Responsible Vendor Program and ServSafe Alcohol Certification demonstrates responsible alcohol service knowledge, which is often required.
- Gain Experience: Working as a barback or in entry-level positions can help build necessary skills and establish connections.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Huntsville
Many hospitality venues in Huntsville are actively hiring Bartenders, including:
- Red Lobster
- Main Event
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Establishments That Bartenders in Huntsville Work At
Bartenders in Huntsville typically find work in a variety of venues such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These provide consistent hours but may offer fewer tipping opportunities.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Usually offer the highest tip potential, often translating into better overall earnings.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer salaries combined with benefits and a professional work environment.
- Event Venues: Bartenders at catering or event locations might earn event-based wages with variable hours.
The type of establishment significantly influences total compensation prospects for Bartenders.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntsville for Bartenders
Those interested in hospitality careers similar to Bartending might consider these related roles:
These roles include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, each involving beverage service and guest interaction with varying responsibilities and salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Huntsville
Bartenders should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations applying to their employment in Huntsville:
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The State of Alabama Department of Labor website provides state-specific labor information.
- The City of Huntsville official website offers local employment resources and updates.