Bartender Salary in St. Louis, MO
Bartenders in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.33 per hour, which translates to about $733.20 per week, $3,177.20 per month, and $38,126.40 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in St. Louis is growing positively at about 6.49% per year, indicating an expanding job market and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Bartender in St. Louis varies by experience level and establishment. Here's a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $29,260.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.33 | $733.20 | $3,177.20 | $38,126.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.85 | $1,274.00 | $5,496.33 | $65,998.00 |
Do Bartenders in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In St. Louis, a Bartender can earn an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, significantly boosting total income depending on the venue and busy hours.
Bartender Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn about $16.12 per hour, which totals approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in St. Louis earn a higher hourly wage and annual salary, reflecting a relatively strong local market for this profession.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Bartenders
Nearby areas with notable Bartender pay include:
- Saint Peters: $25.41 per hour
- Bridgeton: $22.17 per hour
These areas offer Bartenders substantially better wages, often due to upscale venues or higher demand.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in St. Louis?
Many factors contribute to the earning potential of a Bartender in St. Louis:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bartenders with strong mixology skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, clubs, or hotels tend to pay more than casual bars or fast-casual restaurants.
- Tip Opportunities: Places with heavy foot traffic or premium pricing often allow Bartenders to earn more tips.
- Working Hours: Bartenders working late nights or weekends may receive shift differentials.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like the Missouri Responsible Serving Certification or TIPS increases employability and potentially wages.
How To Become a Bartender in St. Louis
To start a career as a Bartender in St. Louis, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Bartending Schools: The St. Louis Bartending School offers comprehensive training in mixology and bartending techniques for immediate employment readiness. Midwest Bartenders School provides hands-on experience and certification focusing on customer service.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Bartenders in Missouri must have the Missouri Responsible Serving Certification. Additionally, gaining the nationally recognized TIPS Certification helps ensure responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level roles in bars or clubs can provide valuable hands-on learning.
- Build Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills lead to better tips and advancement opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in St. Louis
Notable employers recruiting Bartenders in St. Louis include:
- Saint Louis Club
- Ballpark Village
- St. Louis Country Club
Establishments That Bartenders in St. Louis Work At
Bartenders in St. Louis are typically employed at various venues, such as:
- Nightclubs and Lounges: Often offer higher base pay and lucrative tip opportunities due to large crowds and premium drink pricing.
- Hotels and Country Clubs: Provide stable employment and potentially higher hourly wages with formalized service standards.
- Casual Bars and Restaurants: Usually have a consistent customer base but may offer lower base pay and tip volume.
- Event Venues and Ballparks: Seasonal or event-based employment with variable income potential depending on attendance and event popularity.
The type of establishment greatly influences both hourly wages and tips earned.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Bartenders
If you are exploring careers similar to Bartending, consider these options which share similar skill sets and hospitality environments:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista roles, each offering distinct but related opportunities within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in St. Louis
Bartenders should be informed about relevant federal, state, and local labor laws and tax responsibilities affecting their employment:
- Refer to the federal Department of Labor website for nationwide labor laws and regulations.
- For Missouri-specific employment laws, visit the Missouri Labor website to understand worker rights and employer requirements.
- Local business licenses and regulations can be explored on the St. Louis city government website.