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Food Service · Louisiana

How to Become a Bartenders in Louisiana

Bartenders in Louisiana earn a median salary of $19,620/year, which is 41% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~2.4%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $20/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$20K
Median salary in Louisiana
-41%
vs. national average
2.4%
State income tax
8,960
Employed in Louisiana

What a bartenders can afford in Louisiana

Gross annual salary$19,620
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.4% state tax)$1,432/mo
Median 2BR rent (Louisiana)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home98.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$19,620/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$20/mo

Becoming a bartenders in Louisiana

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Louisiana

Louisiana employs 8,960 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in New Orleans-Metairie and Lake Charles.

Bartenders salary by metro area in Louisiana

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
New Orleans-Metairie$21K$10.2/hr3,520
Lake Charles$20K$9.43/hr750
Baton Rouge$19K$9.14/hr1,530
Slidell-Mandeville-Covington$18K$8.87/hr450
Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux$18K$8.6/hr300
Lafayette$18K$8.54/hr730
Monroe$18K$8.49/hr180
Hammond$17K$8.32/hr220
Alexandria$17K$8.03/hr170
Shreveport-Bossier City$17K$8.01/hr620

Bartenders salary range in Louisiana

10th percentile (entry)
$15K
25th percentile
$16K
Median (50th)
$20K
75th percentile
$29K
90th percentile (senior)
$46K
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Full bartenders salary breakdown in Louisiana
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Bartenders careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in Louisiana?

The median bartenders salary in Louisiana is $19,620 per year ($9.43/hr). This is 41% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $15,080 to $46,160.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Louisiana?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in Louisiana?

At the median salary of $19,620, a bartenders in Louisiana would take home approximately $1,432/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 98.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in Louisiana?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Louisiana are New Orleans-Metairie ($21,220), Lake Charles ($19,620), Baton Rouge ($19,020). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Louisiana have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.4%. On a $19,620 salary, this means roughly $480/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.