Bartender Salary in Sterling Heights, MI
Bartenders in Sterling Heights, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Sterling Heights is growing positively at about 9% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled professionals in the hospitality and beverage service industry.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Sterling Heights, MI?
The salary of a Bartender in Sterling Heights varies depending on experience, skills, and the establishment. Here is a breakdown 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 | $2,438.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bartenders in Sterling Heights Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can make an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and clientele, potentially doubling their overall earnings during busy shifts.
Bartender Salary in Sterling Heights vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $16.12 per hour, which amounts to approximately $33,529.60 per year.
Bartenders in Sterling Heights earn $13.90 per hour and $28,912.00 annually, which is somewhat lower than the national average. This difference can be influenced by local economic factors and the concentration of hospitality venues.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sterling Heights for Bartenders
If seeking higher wages, Bartenders might consider nearby locations with better pay rates:
- Royal Oak: $27.04 per hour
- Troy: $26.92 per hour
These areas offer substantially higher hourly rates, reflecting demand and local hospitality market differences.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Sterling Heights?
Several factors can affect Bartender salaries locally:
- Experience and Skill Level: Skilled Bartenders with experience in mixology, customer engagement, and speed typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, lounges, and clubs pay considerably more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts can come with higher pay or more tips.
- Certifications: Holding certifications in responsible alcohol service can improve employment opportunities and pay.
- Location: Salaries differ across city areas and nearby towns with higher hospitality concentrations.
How To Become a Bartender in Sterling Heights
Entering the Bartending profession in Sterling Heights involves the following:
- Complete Bartending Training Programs: Programs such as the Michigan Bartending School offer comprehensive training in mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol service.
- Attend Specialized Courses: The Detroit Mixology Institute provides practical knowledge in cocktail creation and bar management.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Michigan Alcohol Server Certification is mandatory for bartenders, ensuring understanding of state laws and safety.
- Consider Additional Certifications: The nationally recognized TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification helps servers prevent intoxication and underage drinking.
- Gain Experience: Working in entry-level positions or as a barback helps build skills and leads to bartender roles.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Sterling Heights
Several local businesses are actively hiring Bartenders, including:
- Art & Jakes
- Applebee's
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Bartenders in Sterling Heights Work At
Bartenders find roles across a variety of venues, which include:
- Casual Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and moderate salary, enhanced by tips.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Typically offer higher tips and base wages, especially during peak hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide higher pay due to upscale clientele and additional service responsibilities.
- Event Venues and Catering: Can offer varied hours with potential for high tips depending on the event.
The salary can vary greatly across these establishments, with nightclubs and upscale locations typically paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sterling Heights for Bartenders
Those interested in hospitality roles similar to Bartending may consider these positions:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista roles, all of which share aspects of customer service and beverage preparation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Sterling Heights
Bartenders should be informed about their rights and responsibilities under labor laws and tax rules.
- Visit the official Michigan government website for details on state-specific labor laws and employment regulations.
- Federal guidelines and labor standards are available at the U.S. Department of Labor's website.