Bartender Jobs in Memphis, TN

Memphis, Tennessee$32,250 USD/yearFull-time
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Bartender Jobs in Memphis

Looking for a Bartender job in Memphis? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Bartender in Memphis, TN.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Memphis has a strong job market for Bartenders. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Bartender Salary in Memphis

Entry Level
$18,275
Median
$32,250
Senior Level
$49,450

Bartender salaries in Memphis are 14% below the national average, though the lower cost of living often provides similar purchasing power.

Purchasing power in Memphis is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

MixologyCustomer ServiceCash HandlingSpeedCommunication

Bartender Job Market in Memphis

Memphis, TN is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Bartender professionals. As a mid-sized metro with 633K residents, Memphis balances career opportunities with quality of life. While Logistics leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Bartender roles across various sectors. The market for Bartender positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Bartenders in Memphis

Local governmentRegional employersNational companies

Major employers hiring Bartenders in Memphis include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Bartenders in Memphis

Living in Memphis as a Bartender means navigating a cost of living that's below the national average, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious professionals. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. At median Bartender salary, rent would consume about 67% of gross income - above the recommended 30% threshold. Consider roommates or suburban options. Suburban apartments average $1,400/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

86
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.8K
Avg Rent/Month
Growing
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Bartender in Memphis

Memphis Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Bartenders in Memphis: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Bartender professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in Tennessee

Tennessee has no state income tax. Compared to a state with 5% income tax, a Bartender earning $32,250 would save approximately $1,613 annually. This makes Memphis attractive for high earners, though property taxes and sales tax help fund state services.

Career Outlook for Bartenders

The job outlook for Bartenders in Memphis is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Memphis offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Mixology, Customer Service, Cash Handling, Speed.

Relocating to Memphis

Memphis's affordable cost of living means your Bartender salary will stretch further than in major coastal cities. Many professionals relocate here for better quality of life. Tennessee has no state income tax, which can add thousands to your annual take-home pay compared to high-tax states like California or New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Bartender salary in Memphis, TN?

The average Bartender salary in Memphis, TN is $32,250 per year. Entry-level Bartenders typically start around $18,275, while experienced professionals can earn $49,450 or more. The national average for Bartender roles is $37,500.

How many Bartender jobs are available in Memphis?

Memphis has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Bartender professionals. Major employers hiring Bartenders include Local government, Regional employers, National companies. The Logistics and Healthcare sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Memphis a good city for Bartenders?

Memphis is an solid choice for Bartenders. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The affordable cost of living means salaries go further than in more expensive markets. The city's logistics industry creates strong demand for hospitality & tourism professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Bartenders in Memphis?

Top skills for Bartenders in Memphis include Mixology, Customer Service, Cash Handling, Speed, Communication. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Bartenders in Memphis?

Memphis's cost of living is below the national average (86% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,800/month. Purchasing power in Memphis is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Bartenders in Memphis?

Memphis Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

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