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Food Service · New York

How to Become a Bartenders in New York

Bartenders in New York earn a median salary of $61,210/year, which is 78% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $633/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$61K
Median salary in New York
+78%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
43,130
Employed in New York

What a bartenders can afford in New York

Gross annual salary$61,210
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$4,038/mo
Median 2BR rent (New York)-$3,405/mo
Rent as % of take-home84.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$61,210/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$633/mo

Becoming a bartenders in New York

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain New York licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in New York

New York employs 43,130 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in New York-Newark-Jersey City and Binghamton.

Bartenders salary by metro area in New York

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
New York-Newark-Jersey City$61K$29.43/hr38,510
Binghamton$48K$23.05/hr640
Kingston$48K$22.96/hr450
Albany-Schenectady-Troy$47K$22.78/hr1,970
Buffalo-Cheektowaga$47K$22.56/hr2,890
Syracuse$47K$22.46/hr1,540
Glens Falls$46K$22.34/hr320
Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh$46K$22.27/hr1,180
Rochester$46K$22.08/hr2,140
Ithaca$44K$21.18/hr280
Elmira$41K$19.76/hr170
Utica-Rome$39K$18.68/hr760
Watertown-Fort Drum$36K$17.39/hr260

Bartenders salary range in New York

10th percentile (entry)
$34K
25th percentile
$37K
Median (50th)
$61K
75th percentile
$78K
90th percentile (senior)
$94K
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Bartenders careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in New York?

The median bartenders salary in New York is $61,210 per year ($29.43/hr). This is 78% above the national median of $34,340. Salaries range from $33,640 to $93,530.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in New York?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in New York?

At the median salary of $61,210, a bartenders in New York would take home approximately $4,038/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $3,405/month, that's 84.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in New York?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in New York are New York-Newark-Jersey City ($61,220), Binghamton ($47,950), Kingston ($47,760). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does New York have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $61,210 salary, this means roughly $2,762/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.