Bartender Salary in Skokie, IL
Bartenders in Skokie, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $21.56 per hour, which translates to about $862.40 per week, $3,737.07 per month, and $44,844.80 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Skokie is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment and opportunities in this field.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Bartender in Skokie can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across 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 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Skokie Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Skokie, Bartenders can make an extra approximately $10 per hour in tips, making their total earnings significantly higher depending on the venue and clientele.
Bartender Salary in Skokie vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.80 per hour, or about $37,024 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Skokie earn a higher hourly wage of $21.56 and an annual salary of $44,844.80, reflecting the local market demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer competitive Bartender salaries as well:
- Downtown Skokie: $22.50 per hour
- Old Orchard: $21.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Skokie tend to earn slightly more than in Old Orchard, but both areas provide strong opportunities for Bartenders.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Skokie?
Several factors can affect how much a Bartender earns in Skokie:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Bartenders, particularly those skilled in mixology or specialty cocktails, often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders working in upscale bars, clubs, or resorts generally earn more than those in casual or fast-casual venues.
- Location: Bars in high-traffic or affluent neighborhoods may offer better pay and higher tips.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like BASSET can make a Bartender more attractive to employers and impact salary positively.
- Shift Hours: Late-night or weekend shifts can sometimes provide higher pay due to demand.
How To Become a Bartender in Skokie
Becoming a successful Bartender in Skokie involves several steps:
- Obtain Required Certifications: The BASSET Certification is mandatory in Illinois for alcohol servers, ensuring responsible alcohol service knowledge.
- Pursue Mixology Training: Attending Mixology Classes at Chicago Bartending School near Skokie can provide practical skills in cocktail preparation and bar management.
- Gain Experience: Many start as barbacks or servers to build foundational experience before becoming full Bartenders.
- Understand Food Safety: Some establishments may require a Food Handler Certification to ensure safe handling practices.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Skokie
Some of the prominent employers hiring Bartenders in Skokie include:
- Uncle Julio's
- Red Robin
- Ignite Gaming Lounge
- Skokie Country Club
Establishments That Bartenders in Skokie Work At
Bartenders in Skokie work across various establishment types such as:
- Casual Bars and Restaurants: Generally offer steady hours but moderate base pay, supplemented by tips.
- Clubs and Lounges: Often provide higher tip potential and a dynamic work environment.
- Country Clubs and Resorts: Typically offer higher base salaries and benefits due to exclusive clientele.
- Fast-Casual Venues: Usually have lower pay but can be a good starting point for beginners.
The type of establishment can greatly influence the Bartender's salary and tip earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Bartenders
If you're interested in careers related to Bartending, you might also consider these roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, all of which share many skills and offer diverse career paths within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Skokie
Bartenders should be aware of the following resources for labor laws and regulations affecting their work in Illinois:
- Refer to the Illinois official state website for comprehensive information on state employment laws and regulations.
- The Illinois Liquor Control Commission's official site offers important resources on liquor laws and the mandatory BASSET certification for alcohol servers.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website to learn about minimum wage, overtime, and worker rights.