Employment of bartenders is projected to grow 10 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.
Population and income growth are expected to result in greater demand for food, drinks, and entertainment at a variety of food service and drinking places. In response, many new bars, taverns, clubs, and restaurants are expected to open and existing establishments are expected to expand to meet demand, resulting in more bartenders to serve drinks to customers.
Some hotels and motels are restructuring their food and alcohol service, thus moderating employment growth of bartenders in these industries. However, other restaurants are expected to open or expand their food and bar services in hotels to meet travelers' demand for food and drinks.
Job Prospects
Job opportunities are expected to be very good because of the need to replace the many workers who leave the occupation each year.
Strong competition is expected for bartending jobs in popular restaurants and fine-dining establishments, where tips are highest. Those who have graduated from bartending schools and those with previous work experience and excellent customer-service skills should have the best job prospects.
Bartenders
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Bartenders
10%
Food and beverage serving workers
8%
Total, all occupations
7%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program