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Food Service · Virginia

How to Become a Bartenders in Virginia

Bartenders in Virginia earn a median salary of $47,070/year, which is 37% above the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $1,597/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$47K
Median salary in Virginia
+37%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
13,370
Employed in Virginia

What a bartenders can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$47,070
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$3,139/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,542/mo
Rent as % of take-home49.1% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$47,070/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,597/mo

Becoming a bartenders in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Virginia licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Virginia

Virginia employs 13,370 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Charlottesville and Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.

Bartenders salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlottesville$48K$23.18/hr650
Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk$47K$22.45/hr2,860
Roanoke$47K$22.37/hr520
Richmond$46K$22.15/hr2,110
Harrisonburg$45K$21.61/hr280
Staunton-Stuarts Draft$45K$21.45/hr180
Lynchburg$44K$21.32/hr290
Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford$43K$20.71/hr270
Winchester$42K$20.02/hr240

Bartenders salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$28K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$47K
75th percentile
$73K
90th percentile (senior)
$90K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a bartenders make in Virginia?

The median bartenders salary in Virginia is $47,070 per year ($22.63/hr). This is 37% above the national median of $34,340. Salaries range from $27,890 to $90,400.

What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Virginia?

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

Can a bartenders afford to live in Virginia?

At the median salary of $47,070, a bartenders in Virginia would take home approximately $3,139/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,542/month, that's 49.1% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for bartenders in Virginia?

The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Virginia are Charlottesville ($48,210), Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($46,700), Roanoke ($46,530). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Virginia have state income tax for bartenders?

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $47,070 salary, this means roughly $2,190/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.