Bartender Salary in Las Cruces, NM
Bartenders in Las Cruces, NM, in 2026, earn approximately $17.80 per hour, which translates to about $712.00 per week, $3,085.33 per month, and $37,024.00 per year.
The job demand for Bartenders in Las Cruces is looking up with a positive growth rate of about 9% per year, indicating strong opportunities and expanding employment in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Las Cruces, NM?
The salary of a Bartender in Las Cruces varies with experience and skill, but here is an overview across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.65 | $506.00 | $2,192.67 | $26,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.80 | $712.00 | $3,085.33 | $37,024.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.39 | $1,015.60 | $4,381.87 | $52,811.20 |
Do Bartenders in Las Cruces Earn Tips?
Bartenders commonly earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Las Cruces, bartenders can expect to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly increasing their total earnings.
Bartender Salary in Las Cruces vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average hourly wage of about $16.12, which equates to approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Bartenders in Las Cruces earn higher than the national average, with hourly wages at $17.80 and annual salaries around $37,024.00.
This reflects a competitive local market with the potential for good income driven by the hospitality and tourism sectors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Las Cruces for Bartenders
Nearby areas that offer higher hourly pay rates for Bartenders include:
- Downtown Las Cruces: $18.50 per hour
- University District: $19.00 per hour
These neighborhoods usually have a higher concentration of bars and nightlife venues, enhancing earning potential.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Las Cruces?
Several factors can impact a Bartender’s salary in Las Cruces:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with strong mixology and customer service skills command better wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, lounges, and hotel bars often pay more than smaller or casual venues.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts can come with higher pay.
- Tips and Gratuities: Earnings from tips can significantly supplement base wages, especially in busy or high-end locations.
- Certifications and Training: Certifications in beverage management or alcohol safety can improve prospects.
How To Become a Bartender in Las Cruces
To pursue a career as a Bartender in Las Cruces, consider the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Training Programs: Enroll in the Dona Ana Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers courses in mixology and beverage management, building foundational Bartending skills.
- Pursue Hospitality Education: New Mexico State University Hospitality Services provides training in hospitality management, including bar operations and customer service modules.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: The New Mexico Alcohol Server Permit is mandatory for all alcohol servers, ensuring knowledge of state liquor laws and responsible serving practices.
- Consider ServSafe Alcohol Certification: A nationally recognized program that focuses on responsible alcohol service and is often required by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Las Cruces
Some of the prominent employers recruiting Bartenders in Las Cruces include:
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
- Chili's
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Bartenders in Las Cruces Work At
Bartenders in Las Cruces typically work in a variety of hospitality establishments including casual bars, fast casual restaurants, lounges, hotel bars, and nightclubs.
The type of establishment can greatly affect the salary and tips earned. For example, bartenders at upscale lounges or hotels often earn more base pay and higher tips compared to those in fast casual or smaller neighborhood bars.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Las Cruces for Bartenders
For individuals interested in careers similar to Bartending, several options exist within the hospitality sector.
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista roles, which share related competencies and may offer different pay scales and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Las Cruces
Bartenders in Las Cruces should be aware of state and federal labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment and earnings.
- Visit the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions for information on state labor laws and employment resources.
- For state tax details, the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department is a key resource.
- Federal labor laws and worker rights are outlined by the U.S. Department of Labor.