Bartender Salary in Waipahu, HI
Bartenders in Waipahu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $11.42 per hour, which translates to about $456.80 per week, $1,979.47 per month, and $23,753.60 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Waipahu is showing positive growth at about 5% per year, indicating promising opportunities and an expanding market in the hospitality and nightlife sectors.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Waipahu, HI?
The salary of a Bartender in Waipahu varies by experience and employer, but the figures below showcase general earnings at various levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.42 | $456.80 | $1,979.47 | $23,753.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
Do Bartenders in Waipahu Earn Tips?
Bartenders in Waipahu typically earn tips in addition to their base salary, often making an extra $10 or more per hour in tips. This significantly enhances their overall earnings and incentivizes excellent customer service and mixology skills.
Bartender Salary in Waipahu vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $14.50 per hour and about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Bartenders in Waipahu earn less, with approximately $11.42 per hour and $23,753.60 per year. The difference can be attributed to local economic factors and the cost of living in Waipahu.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waipahu for Bartenders
If you are considering nearby locations, some highest-paying establishments for Bartenders include:
- Hale Ikena: $18 per hour
- The Brass Monkey Bar & Grill: $18 per hour
Working in these areas can offer significantly higher wages compared to Waipahu proper, likely due to higher-end service venues or tourist-focused locations.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Waipahu?
Several factors impact how much a Bartender can earn in Waipahu:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Bartenders with diverse drink knowledge and excellent mixology skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, resorts, and restaurants that cater to tourists usually offer better pay than casual or neighborhood bars.
- Location: Venues in tourist-heavy or affluent areas tend to pay more due to higher customer volumes and tipping potential.
- Hours and Shifts: Working late-night shifts or weekends can sometimes come with shift differentials or increased tips.
- Certifications: Certifications like TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol can improve employability and lead to higher pay.
How To Become a Bartender in Waipahu
To pursue a career as a Bartender in Waipahu, consider the following steps:
- Attend a Local Bartending School: Schools such as Local Bartending School in Waipahu offer comprehensive programs covering hundreds of drink recipes, bar setup, and customer service skills, with options for in-person or online learning.
- Complete Training at Kapolei Bartending School: This program includes skills in drink preparation, bar management, and improving tips, offering flexible scheduling to suit your needs.
- Obtain Certifications: Completing programs like TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) or ServSafe Alcohol Certification ensures responsible alcohol service awareness, important for employment and compliance.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start by working in entry-level hospitality roles or as a barback to learn the ropes and build customer interaction skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Waipahu
Several venues in Waipahu offer opportunities for Bartenders, including:
- Hale Ikena
- The Brass Monkey Bar & Grill
- Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
- Lu's Lounge
- Waipahu Golf Club
Establishments That Bartenders in Waipahu Work At
Bartenders in Waipahu are employed across a range of establishments, such as casual bars, upscale restaurants, lounges, and hotels.
Casual Bars and Lounges typically provide steady work but might offer lower base wages with greater tipping potential.
Resort and Hotel Bars tend to offer higher base salaries and opportunities for tips, reflecting the higher volume of diverse clientele.
Fast Casual Venues sometimes employ Bartenders with varying pay, generally on the lower side, but can include benefits and greater stability.
The type of establishment significantly affects overall income, combining base pay and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waipahu for Bartenders
For those interested in similar roles, the hospitality industry offers several related positions that build on similar skills and may provide alternative career paths:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, each offering different challenges and salary potentials within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Waipahu
Understanding local and federal labor laws is crucial for Bartenders in Waipahu to ensure fair wages and compliance with regulations.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information.
- The State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides specific guidance and resources relevant to workers in Hawaii.
- For local ordinances and regulations, check the City and County of Honolulu official website.