How to Become a Bartenders in Washington
Bartenders in Washington earn a median salary of $48,320/year, which is 44% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a bartenders takes home approximately $1,993/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.
What a bartenders can afford in Washington
Becoming a bartenders in Washington
Meet education requirements
Bartenders positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many bartenders positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for bartenderss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 19,140 bartenders. The highest concentrations are in Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard.
Bartenders salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $49K | $23.79/hr | 10,870 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $48K | $22.93/hr | 750 |
| Bellingham | $47K | $22.68/hr | 690 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $47K | $22.5/hr | 330 |
| Kennewick-Richland | $47K | $22.49/hr | 690 |
| Longview-Kelso | $46K | $22.18/hr | 260 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $46K | $22.13/hr | 610 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $46K | $21.97/hr | 1,240 |
| Yakima | $45K | $21.8/hr | 450 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $45K | $21.73/hr | 450 |
| Walla Walla | $44K | $21.29/hr | 120 |
Bartenders salary range in Washington
Bartenders careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a bartenders make in Washington?▼
The median bartenders salary in Washington is $48,320 per year ($23.23/hr). This is 44% above the national median of $33,530. Salaries range from $36,130 to $87,130.
What are the requirements to become a bartenders in Washington?▼
Bartenders positions in Washington typically require No formal educational credential. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a bartenders afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $48,320, a bartenders in Washington would take home approximately $3,405/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for bartenders in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for bartenders in Washington are Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue ($49,490), Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard ($47,690), Bellingham ($47,170). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for bartenders?▼
No, Washington 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.