Skip to content
AffordMap
Food Service · Maine

How to Become a Bartenders in Maine

Bartenders in Maine earn a median salary of $47,630/year, which is 42% above the national average. Maine has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $1,781/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$48K
Median salary in Maine
+42%
vs. national average
4.2%
State income tax
3,060
Employed in Maine

What a bartenders can afford in Maine

Gross annual salary$47,630
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.2% state tax)$3,193/mo
Median 2BR rent (Maine)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home44.2% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$47,630/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,781/mo

Becoming a bartenders in Maine

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Maine licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Maine

Maine employs 3,060 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Portland-South Portland and Bangor.

Bartenders salary by metro area in Maine

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Portland-South Portland$51K$24.61/hr1,760
Bangor$44K$21.09/hr310
Lewiston-Auburn$38K$18.42/hr160

Bartenders salary range in Maine

10th percentile (entry)
$30K
25th percentile
$32K
Median (50th)
$48K
75th percentile
$74K
90th percentile (senior)
$96K
View jobs for Bartenders
Currently hiring in Maine
View →
More openings for Bartenders
Currently hiring in Maine
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full bartenders salary breakdown in Maine
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Maine
After federal + 4.2% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Maine cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Bartenders careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in Maine?

The median bartenders salary in Maine is $47,630 per year ($22.9/hr). This is 42% above the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $30,050 to $95,840.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Maine?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in Maine?

At the median salary of $47,630, a bartenders in Maine would take home approximately $3,193/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 44.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in Maine?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Maine are Portland-South Portland ($51,180), Bangor ($43,870), Lewiston-Auburn ($38,310). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Maine have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, Maine has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $47,630 salary, this means roughly $1,997/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.