Skip to content
AffordMap
Food Service · Minnesota

How to Become a Bartenders in Minnesota

Bartenders in Minnesota earn a median salary of $26,840/year, which is 20% below the national average. Minnesota has a state income tax of ~2.4%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $500/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$27K
Median salary in Minnesota
-20%
vs. national average
2.4%
State income tax
21,570
Employed in Minnesota

What a bartenders can afford in Minnesota

Gross annual salary$26,840
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.4% state tax)$1,912/mo
Median 2BR rent (Minnesota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home73.8% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$26,840/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$500/mo

Becoming a bartenders in Minnesota

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Minnesota licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Minnesota

Minnesota employs 21,570 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington and Rochester.

Bartenders salary by metro area in Minnesota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington$27K$13.1/hr13,040
Rochester$26K$12.45/hr950
St. Cloud$24K$11.73/hr750
Mankato$24K$11.34/hr450
Duluth$23K$11.13/hr1,630

Bartenders salary range in Minnesota

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$24K
Median (50th)
$27K
75th percentile
$30K
90th percentile (senior)
$34K
View jobs for Bartenders
Currently hiring in Minnesota
View →
More openings for Bartenders
Currently hiring in Minnesota
View →
Find accredited trade programs
Apprenticeship and certification paths
View →
Full bartenders salary breakdown in Minnesota
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Minnesota
After federal + 2.4% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Minnesota 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 Minnesota?

The median bartenders salary in Minnesota is $26,840 per year ($12.91/hr). This is 20% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $22,570 to $34,490.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Minnesota?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in Minnesota?

At the median salary of $26,840, a bartenders in Minnesota would take home approximately $1,912/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 73.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in Minnesota?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Minnesota are Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington ($27,250), Rochester ($25,890), St. Cloud ($24,390). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Minnesota have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, Minnesota has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.4%. On a $26,840 salary, this means roughly $656/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.