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Food Service · North Carolina

How to Become a Bartenders in North Carolina

Bartenders in North Carolina earn a median salary of $32,410/year, which is 3% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $807/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$32K
Median salary in North Carolina
-3%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
19,500
Employed in North Carolina

What a bartenders can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$32,410
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$2,219/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home63.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$32,410/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$807/mo

Becoming a bartenders in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in North Carolina

North Carolina employs 19,500 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Asheville.

Bartenders salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$36K$17.3/hr5,880
Asheville$35K$16.89/hr1,460
Raleigh-Cary$34K$16.48/hr2,750
Pinehurst-Southern Pines$34K$16.13/hr260
Durham-Chapel Hill$32K$15.38/hr1,160
Rocky Mount$30K$14.36/hr140
Wilmington$30K$14.25/hr1,440
Greensboro-High Point$30K$14.19/hr1,140
Winston-Salem$28K$13.7/hr1,000
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton$28K$13.48/hr550
Burlington$28K$13.41/hr220
Fayetteville$27K$12.92/hr420
Jacksonville$27K$12.8/hr300
Greenville$23K$11.26/hr300
Goldsboro$19K$8.98/hr140

Bartenders salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$16K
25th percentile
$18K
Median (50th)
$32K
75th percentile
$49K
90th percentile (senior)
$65K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in North Carolina?

The median bartenders salary in North Carolina is $32,410 per year ($15.58/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $16,100 to $64,680.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in North Carolina?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $32,410, a bartenders in North Carolina would take home approximately $2,219/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 63.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($35,990), Asheville ($35,130), Raleigh-Cary ($34,290). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does North Carolina have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $32,410 salary, this means roughly $1,458/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.