Bartender Salary in Salem, OR
Bartenders in Salem, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $15.49 per hour, which translates to about $619.60 per week, $2,684.93 per month, and $32,219.20 per year.
The job market for Bartenders in Salem is showing positive growth of around 5% per year, indicative of increasing demand and opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Salem, OR?
The earnings of a Bartender in Salem depend on experience and the nature of employment. Below is an overview of typical salaries at different experience levels.
| 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 Salem Earn Tips?
Bartenders in Salem generally earn tips as a significant part of their income. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which substantially boosts their overall earnings and reflects the importance of customer interaction and service quality.
Bartender Salary in Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of about $17.80 per hour, translating to roughly $37,024 per year.
Compared to this, Bartenders in Salem make a bit less at $15.49 hourly and $32,219.20 annually, which may reflect local market conditions and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salem for Bartenders
Bartenders near Salem can expect varying pay depending on the specific area:
- Downtown Salem: $16.50 per hour
- South Salem: $15.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Salem tends to offer the highest pay among these local areas, making it a favorable location for Bartenders seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Salem?
Several factors impact the salary of a Bartender in Salem:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bartenders with strong mixology skills and years of experience typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, nightclubs, or high-end restaurants often yields higher wages and better tips compared to casual venues.
- Location: Establishments in busier or more affluent parts of Salem may offer better pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts can come with increased tips and sometimes wage premiums.
- Certifications and Training: Bartenders with certifications like those related to alcohol service and responsible beverage handling may be preferred and better compensated.
How To Become a Bartender in Salem
Starting a career as a Bartender in Salem involves several steps:
- Complete Bartending Courses: Programs like the Brooklyn Bartending School offer comprehensive training in mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol handling. Certification typically lasts three years.
- Obtain State Certification: The Oregon Bartending Certification Program provides state-approved training on legal alcohol service and responsibilities.
- Secure Required Permits: Bartenders must have an Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) Service Permit, which involves completing approved courses and passing an exam.
- Acquire Food Handler’s Permit: Certification in food safety is often necessary for handling beverages and garnishes.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Salem
Several well-known establishments currently seek skilled Bartenders in Salem, including:
- Word of Mouth
- Bentley’s Grill
- Wild Pear Restaurant and Catering
- The Kitchen on Court Street
- Willamette Valley Vineyards Tasting Room
Establishments That Bartenders in Salem Work At
Bartenders in Salem typically find work in various types of establishments:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often provide steady shifts but generally moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual and Restaurants: May offer a mix of bartending and serving responsibilities with varying wage levels.
- Nightclubs and Entertainment Venues: Usually provide higher tipping opportunities and sometimes increased base wages.
- Hotels and Resorts: Can offer lucrative pay and benefits in addition to tips.
The type of venue directly impacts a Bartender’s earning potential, with more upscale or busy locations often paying better.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salem for Bartenders
For those interested in careers related to Bartending, consider the following roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista roles, which share overlapping skills and career paths with Bartenders.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Salem
Understanding local labor laws and tax requirements is crucial for Bartenders working in Salem.
- For regulations on alcohol service and licensing, visit the Oregon Liquor Control Commission (OLCC) website.
- Employment laws, wage standards, and worker protections are available on the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) website.