Bartender Salary in Sacramento, CA
Bartenders in Sacramento, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.69 per hour, which translates to about $747.60 per week, $3,239.60 per month, and $38,875.20 per year.
The job market for Bartenders in Sacramento is showing positive growth with a 9% increase, indicating a rising demand for skilled bartenders in the area which is great news for job seekers in this field.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Sacramento?
The salary of a Bartender in Sacramento varies according to experience, but here is 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Sacramento Earn Tips?
Bartenders typically earn valuable tips as part of their income. On average, a Bartender in Sacramento can make an extra $10 per hour in tips or potentially more depending on the establishment and shift. Tips are a significant part of overall compensation in this role.
Bartender Salary in Sacramento vs. National Average
Nationally, the average Bartender earns about $16.12 per hour and approximately $33,529.60 per year. Comparing this to Sacramento's average hourly pay of $18.69 and yearly salary of $38,875.20, bartenders in Sacramento generally earn higher wages than the national average.
This difference can be influenced by Sacramento’s local living costs, the size of the hospitality industry, and demand for skilled bartenders.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sacramento for Bartenders
Within the Sacramento area, salaries for Bartenders can vary depending on the neighborhood:
- Downtown Sacramento: $19.50 per hour
- Midtown Sacramento: $18.70 per hour
Bartenders working downtown can expect to earn somewhat higher wages compared to other parts of the city, likely due to more upscale venues and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Sacramento?
Several factors can influence how much a Bartender earns in Sacramento:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced bartenders with strong mixology skills or knowledge of craft cocktails generally earn more.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, upscale hotels, and busy nightclubs tend to pay higher wages and offer better tipping opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often yield higher tips and sometimes higher wages.
- Certifications and Training: Specialized knowledge, such as responsible alcohol service certifications, can enhance employability and pay.
- Location Within Sacramento: Neighborhoods with more nightlife activity usually pay higher wages.
How To Become a Bartender in Sacramento
Becoming a Bartender in Sacramento involves several steps to build skills and qualifications:
- Enroll in programs such as the Sacramento Bartending School, which offers comprehensive training in mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol service.
- Consider courses like the American River College Hospitality Management Program that provide relevant bartending techniques and beverage management education.
- Obtain mandatory certifications such as the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification that are required to work legally as a bartender in California.
- Gain the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification to demonstrate commitment to responsible alcohol service.
- Develop strong customer service and communication skills through experience in hospitality settings.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Sacramento
There are several prominent employers actively hiring Bartenders in Sacramento:
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Hyatt
- Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants
Establishments That Bartenders in Sacramento Work At
Bartenders in Sacramento typically work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual restaurants and bars: These provide steady work but usually lower hourly wages and tips.
- Fast casual establishments: Often have limited bar services but may hire bartenders in larger venues.
- Nightclubs and cocktail lounges: Tend to offer higher tips and dynamic environments but sometimes irregular hours.
- Hotels and upscale restaurants: These venues typically pay higher wages and attract bartenders with refined skills.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly affect the bartender’s total earnings, particularly through the amount of tips received.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sacramento for Bartenders
If you're exploring careers related to Bartending, consider these similar roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, roles which share related skills in beverage service and hospitality, but come with different responsibilities and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Sacramento
Bartenders in Sacramento should be aware of key labor laws and regulations that affect their work conditions and compliance requirements.
- California Department of Industrial Relations - State labor laws and regulations provide comprehensive details on wage laws, overtime, and workplace safety.
- California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control - Licensing and compliance information covers required licenses and training for alcohol service.
- U.S. Department of Labor - Federal labor laws and resources offer federal standards and protections for workers.