How to Become a Bartenders in Pennsylvania
Bartenders in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $27,090/year, which is 19% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $502/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a bartenders can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a bartenders in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Bartenders positions in Pennsylvania typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many bartenders positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for bartenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 34,740 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton.
Bartenders salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $34K | $16.54/hr | 14,300 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $31K | $14.73/hr | 1,840 |
| Lancaster | $28K | $13.66/hr | 1,370 |
| York-Hanover | $28K | $13.48/hr | 990 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $28K | $13.38/hr | 1,500 |
| State College | $27K | $13.21/hr | 500 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $27K | $12.99/hr | 1,710 |
| Gettysburg | $26K | $12.61/hr | 300 |
| Chambersburg | $26K | $12.38/hr | 320 |
| Reading | $25K | $12.04/hr | 1,010 |
| Williamsport | $24K | $11.77/hr | 400 |
| Lebanon | $23K | $11.24/hr | 340 |
| Pittsburgh | $23K | $11.16/hr | 6,800 |
| Erie | $22K | $10.55/hr | 980 |
| Altoona | $22K | $10.47/hr | 380 |
Bartenders salary range in Pennsylvania
Bartenders careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bartenders make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median bartenders salary in Pennsylvania is $27,090 per year ($13.02/hr). This is 19% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $17,400 to $51,010.
What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Pennsylvania?▼
Bartenders positions in Pennsylvania typically require No formal educational credential. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a bartenders afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $27,090, a bartenders in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $1,914/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 Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($34,410), Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton ($30,630), Lancaster ($28,410). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for bartenders?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $27,090 salary, this means roughly $832/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.