Bartender Salary in Riverside, CA
Bartenders in Riverside, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.09 per hour, which translates to about $763.60 per week, $3,308.93 per month, and $39,707.20 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Riverside is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook for job opportunities and salary prospects in this field.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Riverside, CA?
Bar tender salaries in Riverside can vary widely depending on experience and the type of establishment. Here's a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Riverside Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Riverside typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. They can often make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income.
Bartender Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn about $17.85 per hour, which comes to approximately $37,128 per year.
Compared to the national averages, Bartenders in Riverside make a bit more, earning $19.09 per hour and $39,707.20 annually. This reflects Riverside's competitive hospitality market and local cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Bartenders
If you are willing to commute, consider these neighboring areas with slightly higher Bartender wages:
- Rancho Cucamonga: $18.02 per hour
- Upland: $17.81 per hour
Rancho Cucamonga offers the highest pay nearby, which might be appealing for Bartenders seeking higher earnings near Riverside.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Riverside?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Bartender in Riverside:
- Experience: More years behind the bar usually lead to increased wages and better tips.
- Skills and Specialization: Expertise in mixology and customer service can boost income.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, hotels, and nightclubs tend to pay higher wages and offer greater tipping potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might include higher pay or more tips.
- Local Economic Conditions: Demand in Riverside affects how competitive the market is for Bartenders.
How To Become a Bartender in Riverside
To start a career as a Bartender in Riverside, consider the following steps:
- Attend Bartending School: Institutions like Riverside Bartending School offer comprehensive training and job placement assistance, making them a great resource for beginners.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in bars or restaurants as a barback or server can help build valuable skills.
- Get Certified: California Bartenders should obtain the Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification, which is mandatory and valid for three years.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Earning a Food Handler's Card is required for handling food and drinks safely.
- Continue Learning: Schools like Brooklyn Bartending School provide in-person lessons with experienced instructors, helping improve skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Riverside
Several notable employers in Riverside frequently hire Bartenders:
- The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Riverside Market Broiler
Establishments That Bartenders in Riverside Work At
Bartenders find jobs in diverse hospitality settings such as:
- Casual Bars: These offer entry-level positions with variable tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often employ bartenders with steady hours but somewhat lower tip potential.
- Upscale Hotels and Nightclubs: Typically pay higher wages and attract bartenders with specialized skills.
The type of establishment heavily impacts the salary potential, especially through tips and wage rates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Bartenders
Individuals interested in Bartending might also consider these related positions that share skills and work environments:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista roles. Each offers various opportunities within the beverage and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Riverside
Bartenders in Riverside must comply with state labor laws as well as regulations specific to alcohol service.
- Refer to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for regulations related to alcohol service and licensing.
- For workplace labor standards, wage laws, and safety regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.