Bartender Salary in Charleston, SC
Bartenders in Charleston, SC, in 2026, earn approximately $23.03 per hour, which translates to about $921.20 per week, $3,991.87 per month, and $47,902.40 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Charleston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this vibrant hospitality hub.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Charleston, SC?
The salary of a Bartender in Charleston can vary depending on experience, establishment type, and tips, 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) | $11.13 | $445.20 | $1,924.40 | $23,150.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.03 | $921.20 | $3,991.87 | $47,902.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $47.64 | $1,905.60 | $8,247.73 | $98,947.20 |
Do Bartenders in Charleston Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders often earn tips that significantly augment their income. On average, a Bartender in Charleston can make an extra $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift, often boosting overall earnings substantially.
Bartender Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.55 per hour, translating to about $36,504 per year.
Compared to this, Bartenders in Charleston earn approximately $23.03 per hour and $47,902.40 annually, which is noticeably higher than the national average, probably due to Charleston's bustling tourism and hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer slightly varying salaries for Bartenders:
- Mount Pleasant: $25.05 per hour
- North Charleston: $23.43 per hour
Mount Pleasant leads with higher hourly wages, making it an attractive option for Bartenders willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Charleston?
The salary of a Bartender in Charleston is influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skills: Skilled Bartenders with mixology expertise and customer service experience generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Premium bars, nightclubs, and upscale restaurants tend to pay more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Tips and Gratuities: Locations with higher patron volume or upscale clientele often yield better tipping opportunities.
- Time and Shift: Evening or weekend shifts can offer more tips and sometimes higher base pay.
- Certifications: Having certifications such as the South Carolina Bartending Certification or TIPS Certification can increase an employer's confidence and potentially boost wages.
How To Become a Bartender in Charleston
Starting a career as a Bartender in Charleston involves several key steps to increase employability and earning potential.
- Get Trained: Consider enrolling in local programs such as the Brooklyn Bartending School or Charleston Bartending School which offer hands-on bartending courses with certification and job placement assistance.
- Obtain Required Certification: The South Carolina Bartending Certification is required to legally serve alcohol and is valid for three years.
- Acquire TIPS Certification: This program educates on preventing intoxication, underage drinking, and drunk driving, making you a safer and more responsible Bartender.
- Gain Experience: Seek positions in casual venues or barbacks to build skills before moving to higher-paying establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Charleston
Several reputable organizations and venues actively hire Bartenders in Charleston:
- Republic DMG
- Charleston Place
- shiftNOW
- Market Pavilion Hotel
- Courtyard Charleston Summerville
Establishments That Bartenders in Charleston Work At
Bartenders in Charleston find work across a variety of hospitality establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer steady employment but often lower base pay and tips.
- Nightclubs and Bars: Usually have higher tip potential which can significantly boost total income.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher hourly wages and provide benefits.
- Event Venues and Catering Services: These can offer seasonal or event-based work with varying pay scales.
The establishment type influences the base wage and tipping opportunities, affecting overall Bartender earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Bartenders
For those exploring similar careers in hospitality to Bartending, here are some options that might interest you:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which share similar skills and environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Charleston
Bartenders working in Charleston should be aware of labor laws and taxation relevant to South Carolina and federal regulations.
- The Federal website for labor laws and regulations provides comprehensive guidelines on wage and hour laws affecting Bartenders.
- The State of South Carolina's official website offers information on state-specific employment laws and labor rights.
- For details on alcohol licensing and compliance, the South Carolina Department of Revenue oversees regulations governing Bartenders' professional activity.