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Food Service · Montana

How to Become a Bartenders in Montana

Bartenders in Montana earn a median salary of $22,840/year, which is 32% below the national average. Montana has a state income tax of ~1.7%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $248/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$23K
Median salary in Montana
-32%
vs. national average
1.7%
State income tax
5,130
Employed in Montana

What a bartenders can afford in Montana

Gross annual salary$22,840
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 1.7% state tax)$1,660/mo
Median 2BR rent (Montana)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home85.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$22,840/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$248/mo

Becoming a bartenders in Montana

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Montana licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Montana

Montana employs 5,130 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Bozeman and Billings.

Bartenders salary by metro area in Montana

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Bozeman$24K$11.38/hr660
Billings$23K$10.89/hr730
Helena$23K$10.87/hr400
Great Falls$22K$10.8/hr370
Missoula$22K$10.68/hr560

Bartenders salary range in Montana

10th percentile (entry)
$21K
25th percentile
$22K
Median (50th)
$23K
75th percentile
$28K
90th percentile (senior)
$34K
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Full bartenders salary breakdown in Montana
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Bartenders careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in Montana?

The median bartenders salary in Montana is $22,840 per year ($10.98/hr). This is 32% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $21,420 to $34,080.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Montana?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in Montana?

At the median salary of $22,840, a bartenders in Montana would take home approximately $1,660/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 85.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in Montana?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Montana are Bozeman ($23,670), Billings ($22,640), Helena ($22,610). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Montana have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, Montana has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.7%. On a $22,840 salary, this means roughly $387/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.