Bartender Salary in Salt Lake City, UT
Bartenders in Salt Lake City, UT, in 2025, earn approximately $18.04 per hour, which equals about $721.60 per week, $3,126.93 per month, and $37,523.20 per year.
The employment outlook for Bartenders is positive, with job demand expected to grow at a rate of around 5% per year, indicating good opportunities for those entering the field.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Salt Lake City, UT?
Bartenders' salaries in Salt Lake City vary based on experience, skill level, and work environment. Below is an overview of earnings 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 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Salt Lake City Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders usually earn tips in addition to their regular wages. On average, a Bartender in Salt Lake City can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly increasing their overall income.
Bartender Salary in Salt Lake City vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of $18.04 per hour and approximately $37,523.20 annually.
Salt Lake City’s Bartenders earn somewhat comparable wages, though top earners in the city might earn slightly less than the national average hourly rate but close annual salaries considering tips.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salt Lake City for Bartenders
Nearby neighborhoods with higher pay rates for Bartenders include:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- Sugar House: $18.70 per hour
Those working in Downtown can expect a higher hourly wage compared to other local areas, reflecting the busy and upscale nature of establishments there.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Salt Lake City?
Several factors affect how much a Bartender can earn in Salt Lake City:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bartenders with more experience and strong mixing and customer service skills tend to command higher salaries and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, hotels, and cocktail lounges generally pay better than casual pubs or chain restaurants.
- Certifications and Training: Relevant training, like ServSafe Alcohol Training, can improve job prospects and earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may come with additional pay or better tipping opportunities.
- Local Regulations: Adhering to Utah’s alcohol service laws impacts employment conditions and job availability.
How To Become a Bartender in Salt Lake City
Serving as a Bartender in Salt Lake City requires a combination of practical skills, legal knowledge, and often certification.
- Complete Responsible Service Training: Training like Utah Alcohol Server Training (required for alcohol servers in Utah), and ServSafe Alcohol Training offered by the Utah Restaurant Association prepares candidates to serve alcohol responsibly under local laws.
- Attend Bartending Courses: Programs such as those at the Utah Bartending School offer hands-on training in bartending techniques and mixology.
- Obtain Additional Certifications: Certifications like EASY Off-Premise Alcohol Sales Training are essential for some bartending roles involving off-site alcohol sales.
- Gain Experience in Establishments: Starting in entry-level roles or as barbacks can help build the skills and experience needed to become a full Bartender.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Salt Lake City
Some prominent employers currently hiring Bartenders in Salt Lake City include:
- Hyatt Regency Salt Lake City
- Performance Automotive Utah
- Salt Lake Country Club
Establishments That Bartenders in Salt Lake City Work At
Bartenders in Salt Lake City commonly find work in a variety of settings:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues offer a steady flow of customers and moderate wages, with decent tipping opportunities.
- Upscale Cocktail Lounges: Better wages and tips due to higher-end clientele and specialized drink offerings.
- Hotels and Resorts: These establishments may offer more consistent hours and benefits, sometimes at higher salary rates.
- Event Venues and Country Clubs: Provide opportunities for higher pay during peak events with exclusive customer service demands.
The type of establishment often directly affects the base wage and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salt Lake City for Bartenders
For those interested in roles similar to Bartender, consider these related positions that share skills and duties:
The related jobs include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista—all positions that involve beverage handling and sometimes customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Salt Lake City
Bartenders in Salt Lake City should stay informed about labor laws and taxation requirements affecting their employment.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Utah-specific employment and workforce information is available through the State of Utah's Department of Workforce Services.
- Alcohol service laws and regulations can be found at the Utah Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.