Bartender Salary in Tampa, FL
Bartenders in Tampa, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $24.54 per hour, which translates to about $981.60 per week, $4,253.60 per month, and $51,043.20 per year.
The job demand for Bartenders is growing positively at about 9% per year, indicating expanding opportunities and a healthy outlook for this profession in Tampa.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Tampa, FL?
The salary of a Bartender in Tampa varies depending on experience and establishment, but here is a breakdown of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.92 | $636.80 | $2,756.53 | $33,081.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $24.54 | $981.60 | $4,253.60 | $51,043.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $37.82 | $1,512.80 | $6,553.87 | $78,665.60 |
Do Bartenders in Tampa Earn Tips?
Bartenders in Tampa typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. They can make approximately $10 per hour in tips, which adds considerable value to their overall earnings.
Bartender Salary in Tampa vs. National Average
The national average salary for Bartenders is around $16.12 per hour, translating to approximately $33,529.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Tampa earn considerably more, with an average hourly wage of $24.54 and an annual salary of $51,043.20.
This higher pay reflects local demand, skill level, and the hospitality industry's strength in the Tampa area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tampa for Bartenders
Nearby areas offer the following hourly wages for Bartenders:
- Wimauma: $31.25 per hour
- Wesley Chapel: $26.89 per hour
Bartenders working in Wimauma can enjoy the highest wages among neighboring areas, followed closely by Wesley Chapel.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Tampa?
Several factors impact how much a Bartender can earn in Tampa:
- Experience and Skills: Skilled Bartenders with mixology knowledge and excellent customer service abilities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, hotels, or casinos typically pays more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Late-night, weekend, or holiday shifts often come with increased pay or more tip opportunities.
- Certifications and Training: Training in responsible alcohol service or bartending courses can improve employment prospects and salary.
- Local Demand: Tampa’s busy tourism and nightlife contribute to competitive wages for Bartenders.
How To Become a Bartender in Tampa
Becoming a Bartender in Tampa involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete a Bartending Course: Consider programs like ABC Bartending School or Tampa Bay Bartending School offering training in mixology, customer service, and responsible alcohol serving.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Florida Responsible Vendor Training and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are essential for compliance and safety.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working as a Barback or in related roles helps develop the necessary skills.
- Develop Customer Service Abilities: Being personable and efficient enhances career growth.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Tampa
- Salt Shack On the Bay
- Outback Steakhouse
- Bartaco
- Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
Establishments That Bartenders in Tampa Work At
Bartenders in Tampa find jobs in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual and Fine Dining Restaurants: These offer steady hours with tips and opportunities to build customer interactions.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Often high-energy with potential for significant tips, but may require late or weekend shifts.
- Hotels and Casinos: Typically higher-paying establishments with larger clienteles and busy service demands.
- Resorts and Tourist Venues: Seasonal work that can offer excellent tip earnings depending on visitor influx.
Each type of establishment influences earnings through pay rates, tip opportunities, and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tampa for Bartenders
If you’re interested in careers related to Bartending, you might consider the following roles:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista—roles requiring customer interaction and beverage service skills closely related to Bartender duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Tampa
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Bartenders working in Tampa to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for federal labor standards and wage regulations.
- For state-specific licensing and regulations, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation provides resources.
- Local business regulations can be found at the City of Tampa official website.