Bartender Salary in Santa Rosa, CA
Bartenders in Santa Rosa, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $21.44 per hour, which translates to about $857.60 per week, $3,716.27 per month, and $44,595.20 per year.
The job market for Bartenders is showing positive momentum, with a growth rate of 9% per year, indicating increasing demand in Santa Rosa and promising job stability for those pursuing this career.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Santa Rosa, CA?
The salary of a Bartender in Santa Rosa varies with experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings based on expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.87 | $714.80 | $3,097.87 | $37,174.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.44 | $857.60 | $3,716.27 | $44,595.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.61 | $1,504.40 | $6,502.53 | $78,554.80 |
Do Bartenders in Santa Rosa Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders in Santa Rosa generally earn tips as a significant part of their income. They can make approximately an extra $10 per hour in tips, which greatly supplements their base salary and reflects their interaction with customers and quality of service.
Bartender Salary in Santa Rosa, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders make an average of about $16.12 per hour and approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Santa Rosa earn considerably more, at about $21.44 per hour and $44,595.20 annually, reflecting the region's higher living costs and demand for skilled bartenders.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Rosa for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Bartenders:
- Downtown Santa Rosa: $22.50 per hour
- Fountaingrove: $23.00 per hour
Those working in Fountaingrove and Downtown Santa Rosa can expect some of the best compensation in the vicinity.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Santa Rosa?
Experience and Expertise: Bartenders with years of experience and knowledge of a wide range of cocktails often command better salaries.
Skills and Certifications: Additional skills like flair bartending, mixology, or knowledge of craft cocktails, and licenses can enhance earning potential.
Type of Venue: Bartenders working in upscale bars, resorts, or fine dining restaurants usually earn more than those in casual or fast-casual establishments.
Location Within the City: Salary variations exist between different Santa Rosa neighborhoods, with central and popular tourist areas paying higher wages.
Work Hours and Shift Types: Night and weekend shifts can come with higher pay or tip opportunities.
How To Become a Bartender in Santa Rosa
Becoming a successful Bartender in Santa Rosa involves several practical steps:
- Complete Training Programs: Consider courses offered by Santa Rosa Junior College Culinary Arts Program and the Bartending School of Santa Rosa, which provide hands-on education in mixology and beverage management.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Acquire mandatory credentials like the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification and the ServSafe Alcohol Certification to comply with state regulations.
- Gain Customer Service Experience: Build experience working in hospitality or service to develop interpersonal skills critical for bartending roles.
- Network Professionally: Connect with local hospitality communities to discover job opportunities and advance your career.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Santa Rosa
Santa Rosa features several prominent employers who frequently hire Bartenders, including:
- Flamingo Resort & Spa
- Vintners Resort
- Troon
Establishments That Bartenders in Santa Rosa Work At
Bartenders in Santa Rosa find employment across a variety of venues such as:
- Casual Bars: Offer entry-level opportunities though salaries might be on the lower side but with solid tip potential.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically pay higher wages reflecting the upscale clientele and complexity of services provided.
- Resorts and Hotels: Larger hospitality establishments like resorts provide steady work and potentially higher base salaries plus tips.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: Tend to offer higher tip opportunities, which significantly boost overall income.
The type of establishment has a direct impact on a Bartender’s total earnings due to differences in clientele, location, and service style.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Rosa for Bartenders
For those interested in hospitality roles related to Bartenders, here are some similar careers worth considering:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, each offering different responsibilities and salary ranges within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Santa Rosa
Bartenders in Santa Rosa should be familiar with key labor regulations and alcohol licensing rules to comply with local and state laws.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for comprehensive state labor laws and worker rights.
- For rules relating to alcohol service and licensing, see the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
- For local information and regulations, consult the City of Santa Rosa Official Website.