Bartender Salary in Nashville, TN
Bartenders in Nashville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.30 per hour, which translates to about $572.00 per week, $2,478.67 per month, and $29,744.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Nashville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality and nightlife sectors of the city.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Nashville, TN?
The salary of a Bartender in Nashville varies depending on experience, skill, and venue type. The table below highlights salary estimates across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,256.67 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.30 | $572.00 | $2,478.67 | $29,744.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $42.84 | $1,713.60 | $7,372.80 | $88,473.60 |
Do Bartenders in Nashville Earn Tips?
Bartenders typically earn significant tips that can considerably increase their income, often earning an extra $10 per hour in tips or even more depending on the establishment and clientele, making tipping a vital part of their overall compensation.
Bartender Salary in Nashville vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.88 per hour, translating to about $37,190.40 per year.
Compared to this, Bartenders in Nashville earn slightly below the national average at about $14.30 per hour and $29,744 annually. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Nashville for Bartenders
Nearby areas offering higher wages for Bartenders include:
- Joelton: $25.00 per hour
- Madison: $22.54 per hour
Working in these nearby locations could provide Bartenders with increased earning potential compared to Nashville proper.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Nashville?
Experience is a major factor; seasoned Bartenders typically command higher wages due to their skills and efficiency.
Skills and Mixology Knowledge enhance earning potential, especially proficiency in crafting specialty cocktails.
Type of Establishment matters greatly; Bartenders in upscale bars or busy nightclubs tend to earn more in both salary and tips compared to those in casual or smaller venues.
Shift Timings such as weekend or late-night shifts can offer higher pay or bonuses.
Location within the city or nearby also impacts earnings because clientele and competition vary.
How To Become a Bartender in Nashville
Starting a career as a Bartender in Nashville involves a mix of education and practical experience.
Obtaining certifications like the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification is mandatory for Bartenders and ensures responsible alcohol service knowledge.
Other valuable credentials include the ServSafe Alcohol Certification, which is nationally recognized and often required by employers.
Training programs such as those at the Brooklyn Bartending School, offering online and in-person courses, provide comprehensive instruction on bartending techniques and customer service philosophies.
The Nashville Bartending School offers an intensive 40-hour program that covers drink preparation and bar management skills, ideal for beginners or those looking to improve their craft.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Nashville
Key employer brands actively seeking Bartenders in Nashville include:
- Chili's
- Red Lobster
- Topgolf
- Saltgrass Steakhouse
- Smokin Thighs LLC
Establishments That Bartenders in Nashville Work At
Bartenders find employment across a diverse range of venues including casual dining, fast casual spots, lively nightclubs, sports bars, and upscale cocktail lounges.
Establishment type is significant because upscale and high-volume venues usually offer better base pay and higher tipping opportunities, enhancing overall income.
Conversely, casual or chain establishments may offer more modest wages but often have steadier hours and easier working conditions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Nashville for Bartenders
For individuals interested in adjacent roles, some similar hospitality positions include:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, providing alternative or step-up career paths within the beverage and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Nashville
Bartenders in Tennessee should familiarize themselves with state-specific alcohol laws and labor regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission website for detailed information about alcohol regulations.
- For comprehensive labor laws, wages, and worker protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.