Bartender Salary in Syracuse, NY
Bartenders in Syracuse, NY, in 2026, earn approximately $16.27 per hour, which translates to about $650.80 per week, $2,820.13 per month, and $33,841.60 per year.
The job outlook for Bartenders in Syracuse is positive with a growth rate of 9% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled Bartenders in the region over the coming years.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Syracuse, NY?
The salary of a Bartender in Syracuse varies according to experience levels and individual employers. Below is an overview of typical earnings for different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.35 | $414.00 | $1,792.00 | $21,528.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.27 | $650.80 | $2,820.13 | $33,841.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.10 | $1,404.00 | $6,076.00 | $72,960.00 |
Do Bartenders in Syracuse Earn Tips?
Bartenders typically earn a significant amount of tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Syracuse, Bartenders can expect to make an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, substantially increasing their total earnings.
Bartender Salary in Syracuse vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn approximately $16.12 per hour, which equates to about $33,529.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Syracuse earn slightly more, at $16.27 per hour and $33,841.60 annually, reflecting a competitive local market for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Syracuse for Bartenders
Salary levels for Bartenders vary across neighborhoods around Syracuse:
- Downtown Syracuse: $17.50 per hour
- Armory Square: $18.00 per hour
Bartenders working in Armory Square tend to earn the highest wages among nearby Syracuse areas, likely due to the area's bustling nightlife and numerous bars.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Syracuse?
Several factors influence how much a Bartender in Syracuse can earn:
- Experience Level: Skilled and experienced Bartenders command higher hourly wages and better tip opportunities.
- Professional Skills: Mastery in mixology, flair bartending, and customer service enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Bartenders at upscale bars, clubs, or hotel lounges generally earn more than those working in casual or fast-food venues.
- Location: Bartenders working in busier districts or affluent neighborhoods like Armory Square typically enjoy higher pay and tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher demand and better tipping prospects.
How To Become a Bartender in Syracuse
If you are interested in becoming a Bartender in Syracuse, consider the following steps:
- Complete Specialized Training: Programs such as the Onondaga Community College Hospitality Management Program offer beverages management and mixology courses designed to prepare you for bartending roles.
- Attend Bartending Schools: Schools like the Syracuse Bartending School provide intensive training in drink preparation, bartending techniques, and customer service skills, which often include certification upon completion.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning certifications like the New York State Alcohol Training Awareness Program (ATAP) and the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification can improve employability by demonstrating responsible alcohol service knowledge.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level hospitality roles or as apprentices can provide essential hands-on skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Syracuse
In Syracuse, some of the prominent employers offering Bartender positions include:
- ASM Global
- Aramark
- T.G.I. Fridays
- Marriott International
- The Hops Spot
Establishments That Bartenders in Syracuse Work At
Bartenders in Syracuse typically find employment at various types of establishments, each influencing salary structure:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues offer steady work but usually moderate wages and tips.
- Upscale Cocktail Bars and Lounges: Higher-end bars often provide better pay rates and larger tips.
- Restaurants and Hotel Bars: These often pay competitive wages and may have regular clientele enhancing tips.
- Nightclubs and Events Venues: Bartenders here can earn significantly through tips during busy evenings and special occasions.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly affect both the base salary and tip opportunities for Bartenders.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Syracuse for Bartenders
Those interested in careers related to Bartending might consider exploring the following similar roles in Syracuse:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista roles, which share overlapping skills and responsibilities with Bartenders within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Syracuse
Bartenders in Syracuse should be aware of important labor laws and tax requirements that affect their employment.
- Information on federal labor laws, wage regulations, and employment standards can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws, worker rights, and employment resources, visit the New York State Department of Labor website.