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Food Service · Missouri

How to Become a Bartenders in Missouri

Bartenders in Missouri earn a median salary of $27,060/year, which is 19% below the national average. Missouri has a state income tax of ~1.8%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $529/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$27K
Median salary in Missouri
-19%
vs. national average
1.8%
State income tax
14,530
Employed in Missouri

What a bartenders can afford in Missouri

Gross annual salary$27,060
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 1.8% state tax)$1,941/mo
Median 2BR rent (Missouri)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home72.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$27,060/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$529/mo

Becoming a bartenders in Missouri

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Missouri licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Missouri

Missouri employs 14,530 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in St. Louis and Cape Girardeau.

Bartenders salary by metro area in Missouri

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
St. Louis$29K$14/hr8,910
Cape Girardeau$27K$13/hr250
Kansas City$27K$12.98/hr4,880
St. Joseph$27K$12.78/hr210
Springfield$26K$12.54/hr800
Columbia$26K$12.3/hr640
Joplin$26K$12.3/hr300
Jefferson City$26K$12.3/hr250

Bartenders salary range in Missouri

10th percentile (entry)
$26K
25th percentile
$26K
Median (50th)
$27K
75th percentile
$31K
90th percentile (senior)
$49K
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Full bartenders salary breakdown in Missouri
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in Missouri?

The median bartenders salary in Missouri is $27,060 per year ($13.01/hr). This is 19% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $25,580 to $49,130.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Missouri?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in Missouri?

At the median salary of $27,060, a bartenders in Missouri would take home approximately $1,941/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 72.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in Missouri?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Missouri are St. Louis ($29,120), Cape Girardeau ($27,030), Kansas City ($27,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Missouri have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, Missouri has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.8%. On a $27,060 salary, this means roughly $486/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.