The average hourly wage for Bartenders in Billings is approximately $16 per hour, but this figure can fluctuate significantly depending on the venue. Bartender earnings often depend on the type of establishment, the local clientele and additional factors like tips and shift hours.
If you're curious about which restaurants in Billings offer the highest pay for Bartenders, this article will explore some of the best-paying spots in the city. We’ll also discuss how various elements influence your earnings and provide tips on how to secure a well-paying Bartending job.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Billings, MT- 1. The Buffalo Club
- 2. Walker’s Grill
- 3. The Reef Bar & Patio
- 4. Montana Brewing Company
- 5. Chap’s Pub & Grill
- 6. The Hoppy Monk
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Billings
- How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Billings
- What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Billings in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Billings?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Billings Bartender Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bartenders in Billings, MT
Billings offers a variety of venues where Bartenders can find lucrative opportunities, from upscale steakhouses to lively brewpubs. These establishments stand out for their excellent pay, tip potential and desirable working atmospheres.
Below are some of the top restaurants where Bartenders tend to make the most money:
1. The Buffalo Club
A historic steakhouse with a rich legacy, The Buffalo Club is known for fine dining and a strong drink menu. Bartenders here enjoy working with a clientele that appreciates craft cocktails and generous tipping.
2. Walker’s Grill
Walker’s Grill combines a casual vibe with excellent service, offering Bartenders a steady flow of customers and competitive wages. The venue’s specialty cocktails and wide beverage variety help boost tip earnings.
3. The Reef Bar & Patio
A lively spot known for entertainment and social gatherings, The Reef Bar & Patio attracts a fun-loving crowd. Bartenders often find themselves enjoying busy shifts with strong tips during weekend evenings.
4. Montana Brewing Company
A local favorite brewery and restaurant, Montana Brewing Company offers unique craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere. Bartenders here often benefit from a passionate customer base and steady business.
5. Chap’s Pub & Grill
This popular pub is appreciated for its casual environment and good drink specials. Bartenders typically enjoy a consistent flow of customers, especially during sports events and weekend nights.
6. The Hoppy Monk
Known for its extensive beer selection and handcrafted cocktails, The Hoppy Monk provides Bartenders with opportunities to educate patrons and earn well through strong bar sales and tips.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Bartender Earnings in Billings
The establishment type plays a crucial role in Bartender pay in Billings. Fine dining and upscale restaurants often offer higher hourly wages as well as better tipping opportunities due to their affluent clientele.
Meanwhile, more casual bars and pubs might have a lower base wage but can compensate through high volume and frequent tips, especially during peak times like weekends or special events.
Additionally, Bartenders who have certifications in mixology or extensive knowledge of craft cocktails may command better pay or secure positions in higher-end venues compared to those without these skills.
How To Find a High Paying Bartender Job in Billings
Polish Your Resume and Skills
Highlight any Bartending experience, mixology certifications and knowledge of spirits and cocktails on your resume. This makes you a more attractive candidate for higher-paying positions.
Network Within the Local Hospitality Scene
Attend industry events, connect with Bar Managers, and visit popular venues to inquire about job openings. Personal connections can open doors to premium jobs that aren’t always advertised.
Target Upscale and High-Traffic Venues
Focus your job search on restaurants and bars known for higher price points and frequent customers, as these often translate into better earnings both in wages and tips.
Prepare for Interviews Thoroughly
Familiarize yourself with popular cocktails, local drink trends and service expectations of the venue. Demonstrate confidence, professionalism and a customer-friendly attitude during interviews.
What’s the Outlook for Bartender Jobs in Billings in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Bartenders in Billings is expected to remain steady with moderate growth as the city continues to attract visitors and locals seeking night-out options. Economic developments and new venues opening contribute positively to job opportunities.
According to labor market reports, the hospitality sector in Billings is projected to grow around 5% through the next five years, indicating a stable outlook for Bartender positions.
The continued popularity of craft cocktails and premium beverage experiences will also drive demand for skilled Bartenders who can deliver quality service in a competitive market.
Is a Bartender’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Billings?
At an average rate of $16 per hour, Bartenders in Billings can make around $33,000 annually before tips and overtime. When factoring in tips, many Bartenders find their total income significantly higher.
Billings is known for a relatively affordable cost of living. For example, the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is about $900 per month, while utilities typically cost around $150 monthly.
Groceries and transportation costs are also manageable, making it feasible for Bartenders with consistent work and good tipping to cover living expenses comfortably.
Securing a Bartending job at a higher-paying restaurant or bar with solid tip potential can improve financial stability and even allow for savings or discretionary spending.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Billings Bartender Jobs
We focused on restaurants and bars that have demonstrated a reputation for offering competitive wages and consistent tip potential based on customer profiles and venue popularity in Billings.
Additionally, we considered factors such as location convenience, quality of work environment and availability of benefits, which contribute strongly to overall job satisfaction and earning potential.
Venues included in this list are known for stable business, frequent patronage and strong brand recognition locally, all of which generally translate into solid income prospects for Bartenders.
