Bartender Salary in Springfield, MO
Bartenders in Springfield, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $19.57 per hour, which translates to about $782.80 per week, $3,392.13 per month, and $40,705.60 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Springfield is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for hospitality and nightlife services in the region.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Springfield, MO?
The salary of a Bartender in Springfield 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) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.57 | $782.80 | $3,392.13 | $40,705.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.45 | $1,178.00 | $5,106.67 | $61,256.00 |
Do Bartenders in Springfield, MO Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and customer traffic, which can significantly increase their total income.
Bartender Salary in Springfield, MO vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $18 per hour, translating to about $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Springfield, MO, earn slightly more, with about $19.57 per hour and $40,705.60 annually.
This difference may be due to local market demand and cost of living in Springfield.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Springfield for Bartenders
When looking at nearby areas, Bartender salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Springfield: $20.00 per hour
- Southside Springfield: $18.50 per hour
Bartenders working in Downtown Springfield might find slightly better pay compared to those in Southside Springfield.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Springfield, MO?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Bartender in Springfield:
- Experience and Skills: Bartenders with more years behind the bar and those skilled in mixology tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale lounges, high-end restaurants, or busy nightclubs often pays more than casual bars or smaller venues.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as responsible alcohol service training can enhance job prospects and salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Bartenders working late-night or weekend shifts might receive higher pay due to demand and shift differentials.
- Local Market Demand: Springfield’s growing hospitality sector can impact wage levels positively.
How To Become a Bartender in Springfield, MO
Starting a career as a Bartender in Springfield involves the following steps:
- Complete Relevant Educational Programs: Programs like the Missouri State University Hospitality Leadership Program offer courses in beverage management and mixology, providing a strong foundation.
- Develop Practical Skills: Enroll in programs such as Ozarks Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program, which include beverage service and bar operations instruction.
- Obtain Certifications: Obtaining the Missouri Responsible Beverage Service Training and ServSafe Alcohol Certification is often required or preferred by employers.
- Gain Experience: Working initially as a Barback or in entry-level hospitality roles can help build bartending skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Springfield, MO
Several notable employers in Springfield actively hire Bartenders:
- The Order
- Aviary Cafe and Creperie
- Metropolitan Bar & Grill
- Soapbox Brewing Co.
- Lime Lounge
Establishments That Bartenders in Springfield, MO Work At
Bartenders in Springfield typically work across a range of venues, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Usually provide steady work with moderate pay and tip income.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: Often offer higher wages and potential for increased tips due to higher volume of customers.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Range widely in pay depending on the establishment’s prestige and location.
- Breweries and Taprooms: Growing in Springfield, these establishments provide opportunities with competitive wages.
The type of establishment affects both the base salary and tip potential for Bartenders.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Springfield, MO for Bartenders
If you're interested in similar hospitality roles, here are a few related positions you might consider:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, all of which involve working in similar environments and skill sets related to serving beverages and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Springfield, MO
Bartenders should stay informed about the labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their work in Springfield and Missouri.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Missouri state website offers detailed resources on employment laws and worker rights, available at labor.mo.gov.
- For local business licenses and regulations in Springfield, check springfieldmo.gov.