How to Become a Bartenders in Michigan
Bartenders in Michigan earn a median salary of $39,500/year, which is 18% above the national average. Michigan has a state income tax of ~4.3%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $1,263/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a bartenders can afford in Michigan
Becoming a bartenders in Michigan
Meet education requirements
Bartenders positions in Michigan typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Michigan. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many bartenders positions in Michigan require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Michigan licensure or certification
Michigan may require specific licensing or professional certification for bartenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Michigan Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Michigan
Michigan employs 19,530 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood and Ann Arbor.
Bartenders salary by metro area in Michigan
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood | $46K | $22.34/hr | 2,240 |
| Ann Arbor | $46K | $22.15/hr | 740 |
| Midland | $46K | $22.05/hr | 130 |
| Lansing-East Lansing | $45K | $21.79/hr | 790 |
| Flint | $45K | $21.7/hr | 650 |
| Traverse City | $45K | $21.41/hr | 550 |
| Kalamazoo-Portage | $43K | $20.75/hr | 570 |
| Saginaw | $42K | $20.19/hr | 370 |
| Monroe | $41K | $19.9/hr | 260 |
| Battle Creek | $40K | $19.2/hr | 250 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn | $39K | $18.62/hr | 7,190 |
| Bay City | $39K | $18.55/hr | 230 |
| Jackson | $38K | $18.48/hr | 240 |
| Niles | $38K | $18.32/hr | 460 |
| Muskegon-Norton Shores | $38K | $18.26/hr | 390 |
Bartenders salary range in Michigan
Bartenders careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bartenders make in Michigan?▼
The median bartenders salary in Michigan is $39,500 per year ($18.99/hr). This is 18% above the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $26,670 to $73,960.
What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Michigan?▼
Bartenders positions in Michigan typically require No formal educational credential. Michigan may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Michigan licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a bartenders afford to live in Michigan?▼
At the median salary of $39,500, a bartenders in Michigan would take home approximately $2,675/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 52.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for bartenders in Michigan?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Michigan are Grand Rapids-Wyoming-Kentwood ($46,470), Ann Arbor ($46,080), Midland ($45,850). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Michigan have state income tax for bartenders?▼
Yes, Michigan has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.3%. On a $39,500 salary, this means roughly $1,679/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.