How much does a Bartender make in Los Angeles, CA?

The average salary for a Bartender is $62,134 per year in Los Angeles, CA. Salaries estimates are based on 23006 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by a Bartender employees in Los Angeles, CA.

The highest salary for a Bartender in Los Angeles, CA is $84,229 per year.

The lowest salary for a Bartender in Los Angeles, CA is $46,601 per year.

If you are thinking of becoming a Bartender or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and salary trajectory of a Bartender.

Employment as a bartender offers income and flexibility to candidates without any formal education requirements. While median hourly pay is in line with, or below, minimum wage, skilled bartenders can double their salary through tips. Total wages are higher for bartenders working at high-end clubs or bars, and for bartenders who work weekend and night shifts when the establishments are busiest. Waiters with at least a high school diploma can further increase their salaries by progressing into manager roles.

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Since bartenders bring home a large portion of their earnings in tips, about 63% of them consider their salaries to be good, according to anonymous Glassdoor ratings. The potential for $20,085.25 in additional pay for bartenders helps qualify their salaries as good overall.

Bartenders have an extensive salary range between $36,037.89 and $109,484.39, with the average professional bringing in $42,049.05. Following the average career path of a bartender, employees with a wealth of experience can expect to earn closer to the maximum total pay of $62,134.30. After learning on-the-job skills, you can also consider the role of lead bartender and increase your earning potential.

If you want to earn a higher salary as a bartender, knowledge, experience, and location are key. A bartender's base salary varies between states and cities depending on local laws, and different settings (dive bars vs. luxury hotels, for instance) also pay differently. The more experience, the better, so be open to learning in diverse environments. Gain as much beverage knowledge as you can and master making all types of drinks; the more pouring and mixology become second nature, the better. Excellent communication, customer service, attention to detail, and time management are all pivotal skills on the path to higher salary as a bartender, and certification also has an impact.

Negotiating a higher salary in your bartender job depends on what you bring to the table, regardless of your experience level. The more experience you gain, the higher your negotiating power. This is especially applicable if you've worked in diverse settings, such as spending one year in a country club and another in a hotel. Emphasize your pouring and mixology skills, even bringing a portfolio of your go-to beverages. Highlight your best qualities as a bartender, such as flexibility, leadership, liking a challenge, beverage knowledge, and customer service skills. If you had a lot of repeat customers in a former role, for instance, it's a huge draw for potential employers.