How to Become a Bartenders in Florida
Bartenders in Florida earn a median salary of $30,850/year, which is 8% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $824/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a bartenders can afford in Florida
Becoming a bartenders in Florida
Meet education requirements
Bartenders positions in Florida typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many bartenders positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for bartenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 54,800 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater and Naples-Marco Island.
Bartenders salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $36K | $17.38/hr | 9,360 |
| Naples-Marco Island | $35K | $16.68/hr | 1,400 |
| Jacksonville | $33K | $16/hr | 3,790 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $32K | $15.36/hr | 1,990 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $32K | $15.28/hr | 8,350 |
| Wildwood-The Villages | $31K | $14.77/hr | 210 |
| Homosassa Springs | $30K | $14.43/hr | 210 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $30K | $14.39/hr | 1,160 |
| Gainesville | $30K | $14.36/hr | 710 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $30K | $14.26/hr | 1,370 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $30K | $14.24/hr | 1,240 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | $30K | $14.19/hr | 390 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $30K | $14.19/hr | 13,640 |
| Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach | $29K | $14.12/hr | 1,730 |
| Port St. Lucie | $29K | $13.97/hr | 930 |
Bartenders salary range in Florida
Bartenders careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bartenders make in Florida?▼
The median bartenders salary in Florida is $30,850 per year ($14.83/hr). This is 8% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $24,960 to $73,000.
What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Florida?▼
Bartenders positions in Florida typically require No formal educational credential. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a bartenders afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $30,850, a bartenders in Florida would take home approximately $2,236/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 63.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for bartenders in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Florida are Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater ($36,140), Naples-Marco Island ($34,680), Jacksonville ($33,280). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for bartenders?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means bartenders keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.