How to Become a Bartenders in California
Bartenders in California earn a median salary of $35,900/year, which is 7% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~1.7%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $1,110/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a bartenders can afford in California
Becoming a bartenders in California
Meet education requirements
Bartenders positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many bartenders positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for bartenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 69,790 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Santa Rosa-Petaluma.
Bartenders salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $40K | $19.06/hr | 3,410 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $39K | $18.57/hr | 1,170 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $38K | $18.48/hr | 11,590 |
| Napa | $37K | $17.66/hr | 550 |
| Vallejo | $36K | $17.38/hr | 470 |
| Salinas | $36K | $17.1/hr | 850 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $35K | $17.04/hr | 590 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $35K | $16.94/hr | 8,630 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $35K | $16.9/hr | 20,810 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $35K | $16.73/hr | 750 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $35K | $16.71/hr | 1,220 |
| Modesto | $35K | $16.67/hr | 580 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $35K | $16.6/hr | 1,260 |
| El Centro | $34K | $16.47/hr | 140 |
| Fresno | $34K | $16.45/hr | 1,240 |
Bartenders salary range in California
Bartenders careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bartenders make in California?▼
The median bartenders salary in California is $35,900 per year ($17.26/hr). This is 7% above the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $33,340 to $79,780.
What are the requirements to become a bartenders in California?▼
Bartenders positions in California typically require No formal educational credential. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a bartenders afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $35,900, a bartenders in California would take home approximately $2,522/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 56% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for bartenders in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($39,650), Santa Rosa-Petaluma ($38,620), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($38,430). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for bartenders?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.7%. On a $35,900 salary, this means roughly $617/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.