The job market for bartenders in the United States

There are currently an estimated 611,200 bartenders in the United States. The bartender job market is expected to grow by 2.5% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are bartenders?

CareerExplorer rates bartenders with a B+ employability rating, meaning this career should provide good employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 26,600 bartenders. That number is based on 15,100 additional bartenders, and the retirement of 11,500 existing bartenders.

Are bartenders in demand?

Demand and job opportunities for bartenders will be sustained, due both to ongoing restaurant and bar openings and a consistent rate of turnover in the field. The trend of people dining out will also contribute to the generally positive employment outlook; though restaurant take-out services may impact the number of available openings for bartenders. Positions as head bartenders or restaurant managers may present opportunities for those wishing to advance in the field; overall, however, these prospects are limited. While there are no degree requirements for bartenders and training often occurs on the job, certificate programs in mixology and bartending are offered by bartending, technical, and vocational schools. Regardless of how bartenders learn their craft, to be successful they must complement their education with exceptional customer service skills. The capacity to interact and connect with customers is particularly important for bartenders because a significant portion of their earnings comes from tips. In addition, they need to be able to remember multiple different orders while working in busy, sometimes loud, environments. Physical stamina and ability to calmly deal with drunken or irate customers are also valued assets. In the United States, most bartenders must be at least eighteen years of age. Many employers, though, prefer applicants who are at least twenty-five.

What’s the supply of bartenders?

The bartender industry is concentrated in California, New York, Florida

Bartender job market by state