How to Become a Bartenders in Tennessee
Bartenders in Tennessee earn a median salary of $22,660/year, which is 32% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $268/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a bartenders can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a bartenders in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Bartenders positions in Tennessee typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many bartenders positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for bartenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 10,380 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Kingsport-Bristol and Chattanooga.
Bartenders salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kingsport-Bristol | $29K | $13.89/hr | 300 |
| Chattanooga | $23K | $11.14/hr | 980 |
| Memphis | $23K | $11.14/hr | 1,430 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $23K | $11.11/hr | 4,320 |
| Clarksville | $23K | $10.89/hr | 340 |
| Cleveland | $23K | $10.85/hr | 90 |
| Knoxville | $22K | $10.71/hr | 1,570 |
| Morristown | $22K | $10.69/hr | 80 |
| Jackson | $22K | $10.4/hr | 170 |
| Johnson City | $21K | $10.15/hr | 300 |
Bartenders salary range in Tennessee
Bartenders careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bartenders make in Tennessee?▼
The median bartenders salary in Tennessee is $22,660 per year ($10.9/hr). This is 32% below the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $15,970 to $49,040.
What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Tennessee?▼
Bartenders positions in Tennessee typically require No formal educational credential. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a bartenders afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $22,660, a bartenders in Tennessee would take home approximately $1,680/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 84% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for bartenders in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Tennessee are Kingsport-Bristol ($28,880), Chattanooga ($23,180), Memphis ($23,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for bartenders?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means bartenders keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.