Bartender Salary in Oak Park, IL
Bartenders in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $11.44 per hour, which translates to about $457.60 per week, $1,982.93 per month, and $23,795.20 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Oak Park is increasing positively at about 9% growth per year, indicating a healthy job market and expanding opportunities in the hospitality sector in the region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Oak Park, IL?
Bartender salaries in Oak Park vary by experience, reflecting different stages of skill and expertise in the trade.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.10 | $404.00 | $1,745.33 | $20,996.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.44 | $457.60 | $1,982.93 | $23,795.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
Do Bartenders in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders often earn significant tips in Oak Park. They can expect to receive an average of $10 or more per hour in tips, which substantially increases their overall income and reflects the customer-facing nature of the role.
Bartender Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of about $16.12 per hour, which equals approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Oak Park earn less, with an average hourly rate of $11.44 and annual earnings around $23,795.20.
This difference may be due to local economic factors, cost of living, and specific market demand in the Oak Park region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Bartenders:
- Downtown Oak Park: $12.50 per hour
- South Oak Park: $13.00 per hour
Bartenders working in South Oak Park tend to earn the highest wages in the vicinity, reflecting varied venue types and clientele.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Oak Park?
Various factors influence a Bartender's earnings in Oak Park. Experience plays a crucial role; entry-level Bartenders generally earn less than highly experienced ones.
Skill level and mixology knowledge can boost earnings, as premium cocktail preparation attracts more customers and higher tips.
The type of establishment matters significantly; Bartenders working in upscale bars, country clubs, or high-end restaurants often receive higher pay and more generous tips.
Location and clientele also affect wages; venues in busier, affluent parts of Oak Park or nearby areas might pay more to attract skilled professionals.
Certification and compliance with legal service requirements demonstrate professionalism and can influence hiring decisions and pay rates.
How To Become a Bartender in Oak Park
To start a career as a Bartender in Oak Park, one should consider gaining practical knowledge and completing training programs.
Two notable bartending schools nearby include the Bartending School of Illinois, which covers mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol service, and the ABC Bartending School, offering hands-on training and certification in Chicago.
Obtaining required certifications like the BASSET Certification (Beverage Alcohol Sellers and Servers Education and Training) is mandatory in Illinois for those serving alcohol.
Other useful credentials include the ServSafe Alcohol Certification, recognized nationwide for responsible alcohol service education.
Gaining experience through entry-level roles or internships in bars, clubs, or restaurants also helps build skills and a professional network.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Oak Park
Some of the prominent employers looking for Bartenders in Oak Park include:
- Oak Park Country Club
- Mora Oak Park
- Crepas Culichi
Establishments That Bartenders in Oak Park Work At
Bartenders in Oak Park typically find jobs in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Offering a dynamic work environment with moderate pay and regular tip opportunities.
- Upscale Restaurants and Cocktail Lounges: Often providing higher wages and better tip potential.
- Country Clubs and Event Venues: These establishments may offer more consistent hours and higher base pay.
- Fast Casual & Nightclubs: Bartenders here may experience fluctuating hours but benefit from high tip volume.
The type of establishment directly influences the Bartender’s salary, tip potential, and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Bartenders
If you are interested in careers related to Bartending, consider these similar roles that share some skill sets and responsibilities.
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, roles that are closely connected to the bar and beverage service industry with varying responsibilities and pay structures.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Oak Park
Bartenders working in Oak Park should be familiar with federal and state labor laws, as well as tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- State-specific employment information is available through the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- General state resources and legal information can be found at the Official Illinois State website.