Bartender Salary in Montgomery, AL
Bartenders in Montgomery, AL, in 2026, earn approximately $11.62 per hour, which translates to about $464.80 per week, $2,014.13 per month, and $24,169.60 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Montgomery is growing significantly at about 9% per year, indicating promising job opportunities and an expanding industry in this region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Montgomery, AL?
The salary of a Bartender in Montgomery can vary based on experience and other factors. Here's an overview of pay across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.38 | $295.20 | $1,276.80 | $15,350.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.62 | $464.80 | $2,014.13 | $24,169.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.30 | $732.00 | $3,163.33 | $37,956.00 |
Do Bartenders in Montgomery Earn Tips?
Bartenders generally earn tips in addition to their base pay. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their income depending on the establishment and shift.
Bartender Salary in Montgomery vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, equating to about $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Montgomery earn less at $11.62 per hour and $24,169.60 annually. This difference may be related to local cost of living and market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Montgomery for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Bartenders, such as:
- Downtown Montgomery: $15.50 per hour
- East Montgomery: $14.00 per hour
Bartenders working in Downtown Montgomery can expect higher wages compared to other parts of the city, highlighting the influence of location on income.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Montgomery?
Several factors can influence how much a Bartender earns in Montgomery:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bartenders with more experience and advanced mixology skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale bars, hotels, or nightclubs usually offers better pay than casual or fast-casual settings.
- Tips and Customer Volume: Busy venues with high customer traffic generally provide bartenders with larger tip income.
- Certifications and Training: Credentials such as responsible alcohol service certification can improve employment prospects and pay.
- Shift Timings: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher wages due to increased demand or shift differentials.
How To Become a Bartender in Montgomery
Starting a career as a Bartender in Montgomery involves several steps to improve your skills and employability.
- Complete Bartending Training: Enroll in programs like the Alabama Bartending School, which offers comprehensive training in mixology and customer service.
- Take Courses in Beverage Management: Montgomery Hospitality Institute provides advanced courses to enhance beverage handling techniques.
- Obtain Certifications: Consider certifications such as the Alabama Responsible Vendor Program and ServSafe Alcohol Certification, which focus on responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in hospitality settings to build hands-on skills and customer interaction expertise.
- Network and Build Reputation: Establish connections in the local hospitality community to find job openings and grow professionally.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Montgomery
Several well-known establishments in Montgomery frequently hire Bartenders, including:
- Red Lobster
- TASTE
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Bartenders in Montgomery Work At
Bartenders in Montgomery work across a variety of establishment types, each influencing their earning potential:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Typically provide stable hours but moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual Venues: Often less reliant on tips and pay lower base wages.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Higher tip potential and often better hourly pay during peak times.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer salaried positions or hourly pay combined with benefits.
The nature and clientele of the establishment significantly impact the Bartender's income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Montgomery for Bartenders
If you are interested in roles related to Bartending, here are some similar career options to consider:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which share similar skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Montgomery
Bartenders should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax requirements at the federal, state, and local levels to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- Check the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide standards on wages and working conditions.
- Visit the State of Alabama's official website for employment resources and licensing information.
- Consult the City of Montgomery's official website for local business regulations and resources.