Bartender Salary in Jacksonville, FL
Bartenders in Jacksonville, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $22.90 per hour, which translates to about $916.00 per week, $3,969.33 per month, and $47,632.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Jacksonville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in this role annually.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Jacksonville, FL?
The salary of a Bartender in Jacksonville can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.16 | $606.40 | $2,626.13 | $31,514.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.90 | $916.00 | $3,936.67 | $47,632.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $34.59 | $1,383.60 | $5,988.20 | $71,947.20 |
Do Bartenders in Jacksonville Earn Tips?
Bartenders typically earn tips as a substantial part of their income. In Jacksonville, they can make approximately $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts their overall earnings beyond the base salary.
Bartender Salary in Jacksonville vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.90 per hour, which translates to about $37,232 per year.
When compared to the national average, Bartenders in Jacksonville earn significantly more, at about $22.90 per hour and $47,632 annually.
This higher salary can be attributed to local economic factors, demand in nightlife and hospitality, and the value placed on bartending skills in Jacksonville.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jacksonville for Bartenders
Nearby areas with higher bartender salaries include:
- Ponte Vedra Beach: $23.38 per hour
- Atlantic Beach: $22.90 per hour
These nearby locations offer competitive wages for Bartenders, with Ponte Vedra Beach slightly leading in pay rates.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Jacksonville?
Several key factors influence the Bartender's salary in Jacksonville:
- Experience and Skills: Bartenders with advanced mixology knowledge, customer service skills, and several years of experience tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, nightclubs, or premium hotels usually offers better pay compared to casual or fast casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher pay or better tips.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as responsible alcohol service credentials can increase an employer’s confidence and pay.
- Location: High-demand areas or affluent neighborhoods may offer increased wages and tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Bartender in Jacksonville
To start a Bartender career in Jacksonville, one can take several practical steps:
- Enroll in Bartending Schools: Schools such as the Brooklyn Bartending School offer personalized, hands-on training covering essential skills like mixology and customer service, complete with job assistance.
- Participate in Practical Classes: The ABC Bartending School provides one to three-week classes focusing on practical bartending skills, including job placement assistance at no extra cost.
- Get Certified in Responsible Alcohol Service: Certifications like the Florida Responsible Vendor Certification, valid for three years with renewals online, and the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification, which many Florida employers require.
- Gain On-the-job Experience: Many bartenders begin as barbacks or assistants to develop skills and work their way up.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Jacksonville
Several key employers in Jacksonville seek skilled Bartenders, including:
- Marriott International
- JaxSpice
- Pizza Hut
- Jacksonville Housing Authority
Establishments That Bartenders in Jacksonville Work At
Bartenders in Jacksonville typically work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Bars: Often offer competitive base pay with variable tips depending on customer volume.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: May provide higher hourly pay and more generous tips due to higher sales volume and clientele.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide stable employment with benefits; pay varies by property prestige.
- Restaurants (Fast Casual to Fine Dining): Bartender salaries fluctuate widely depending on restaurant type and tipping culture.
The type of establishment greatly affects earnings, with upscale venues generally providing superior pay and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jacksonville for Bartenders
If you are interested in careers similar to Bartenders, consider these related roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which offer roles with related skills and responsibilities within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Jacksonville
Bartenders in Jacksonville should be informed about local labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliant and fair working conditions.
- Visit the State of Florida's official website for the Department of Business and Professional Regulation, responsible for alcoholic beverages and tobacco.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website provides comprehensive information about employment regulations.