Bar staff Salary
Median salary £9,166 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
About this role
Bar staff support food and drink service operations in hospitality settings. They prepare food items, serve customers, maintain cleanliness and ensure smooth service delivery in restaurants, bars, hotels and catering venues.
Key responsibilities
- Preparing, assembling or serving food and drinks
- Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards
- Restocking supplies and setting up service areas
- Following food safety and health and safety procedures
- Providing friendly and efficient customer service
Qualifications and entry routes
No formal qualifications are required for most entry-level positions. Food Hygiene Level 2 is typically required. Personal licence is needed for those selling alcohol.
Career outlook
Entry-level roles with opportunities for progression through experience, additional training and skills development. Apprenticeships offer structured routes into skilled occupations.
Key skills
Common industries
- Restaurants
- Pubs and bars
- Hotels
- Contract catering
- Events
Data coverage
Median Salary
£9,166
Mean Salary
£10,762
Jobs (000s)
84k
Data Years
5 years
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£2,307
0-2 years
Mid Level
£4,579
3-7 years
Senior
£14,246
8-15 years
Potential career growth: +518% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2021-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 14.2%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
All Employees
£9,166
Full-time Only
£23,182
Full-time premium: +£14,016
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Salary forecast
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Lifetime earnings
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