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Food Service · Arkansas

How to Become a Bartenders in Arkansas

Bartenders in Arkansas earn a median salary of $26,030/year, which is 22% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $429/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$26K
Median salary in Arkansas
-22%
vs. national average
3.3%
State income tax
2,630
Employed in Arkansas

What a bartenders can afford in Arkansas

Gross annual salary$26,030
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.3% state tax)$1,841/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arkansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home76.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$26,030/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$429/mo

Becoming a bartenders in Arkansas

1

Meet education requirements

Bartenders positions in Arkansas typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arkansas. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many bartenders positions in Arkansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification

Arkansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for bartenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arkansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arkansas

Arkansas employs 2,630 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers and Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway.

Bartenders salary by metro area in Arkansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers$27K$13.01/hr830
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway$26K$12.57/hr770
Fort Smith$26K$12.51/hr170
Jonesboro$25K$11.8/hr120
Hot Springs$23K$11.15/hr160

Bartenders salary range in Arkansas

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$23K
Median (50th)
$26K
75th percentile
$32K
90th percentile (senior)
$55K
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Full bartenders salary breakdown in Arkansas
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Bartenders careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in Arkansas?

The median bartenders salary in Arkansas is $26,030 per year ($12.51/hr). This is 22% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $22,880 to $55,070.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Arkansas?

Bartenders positions in Arkansas typically require No formal educational credential. Arkansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arkansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a bartenders afford to live in Arkansas?

At the median salary of $26,030, a bartenders in Arkansas would take home approximately $1,841/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 76.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in Arkansas?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Arkansas are Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($27,060), Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway ($26,150), Fort Smith ($26,030). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arkansas have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $26,030 salary, this means roughly $847/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.