Bartender Salary in Thornton, CO
Bartenders in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Thornton is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector within the city.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Bartender in Thornton varies based on experience and skills. Here is an overview of earnings across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.79 | $471.60 | $2,039.20 | $24,470.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $35.23 | $1,409.20 | $6,095.87 | $73,270.40 |
Do Bartenders in Thornton Earn Tips?
Yes, Bartenders typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Thornton, Bartenders can earn an additional $10 or more per hour in tips, which significantly boosts their overall earnings. This can amount to nearly $80 to $100+ in tips per day depending on the establishment and customer traffic.
Bartender Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which totals approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Thornton earn notably more with an average pay of $18.00 per hour, or $37,440 annually. This difference reflects the local market demand and cost of living in Thornton, CO.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Bartenders
Nearby establishments offer varying pay rates for Bartenders:
- The Other Side Bar & Grill: $20 per hour
- El Toro Blanco: $22 per hour
These higher wages suggest that Bartenders working in nearby venues may enjoy better compensation compared to the average in Thornton.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Thornton?
Experience and Skillset: More experienced Bartenders with strong mixology skills and customer service abilities can command higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, nightclubs, or resorts usually offers better pay than casual or fast-food venues.
Certifications and Training: Bartenders holding relevant certifications often see increased earning potential.
Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher pay or increased tip opportunities.
How To Become a Bartender in Thornton
Starting a career as a Bartender in Thornton involves several important steps.
- Completing bartending courses such as those offered by Brooklyn Bartending School in nearby Broomfield, which provides comprehensive training, job assistance, and internships.
- Securing a certification like the Colorado Responsible Vendors Program, which is mandatory for bartenders in Colorado and accredits responsible alcohol service for three years.
- Gaining hands-on experience through internships or entry-level positions in local bars or restaurants.
- Building strong interpersonal and mixology skills to enhance employability and tips.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Thornton
Leading employers looking for Bartenders in Thornton include:
- Topgolf
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
Establishments That Bartenders in Thornton Work At
Bartenders in Thornton often work in a variety of establishments such as casual bars, fast-casual restaurants, hotels, resorts, and nightclubs.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary potential. For example, Bartenders at high-end resorts or nightclubs generally earn more due to higher base wages and greater tip opportunities compared to those at casual or fast-food venues.
Furthermore, Bartenders working in places with large customer volumes or tourist traffic have enhanced income potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Bartenders
Those interested in similar hospitality roles can consider several related jobs:
These roles include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista, which are all positions related to beverage service and hospitality, and offer various career paths and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Thornton
Bartenders in Thornton need to be aware of several important regulations and tax considerations.
- Information on liquor laws and responsible alcohol service can be found at the State of Colorado Liquor and Tobacco Enforcement Division.
- Employment rights, labor laws, wage standards, and tax regulations are available through the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.