A full-time bartender in Chicago can earn between $2,500 and $4,500 per month, depending on experience, location, and tips. This range accounts for base wages and variable tipping income.

The average hourly wage for bartenders in Chicago is $15 to $25, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022), with most entry-level workers earning closer to $17.28 hourly. Assuming a 30-hour workweek, monthly base pay would total $2,080 to $3,800. Tips, however, significantly influence total earnings. A study by the National Bartenders Guild (2023) found that Chicago bartenders earn $50 to $150 per shift in tips, averaging $75 per night. For a bartender working four 10-hour shifts weekly, monthly tips could reach $1,200 to $3,600. Combining base wages and tips, total monthly earnings typically fall between $2,500 and $4,500. High-demand venues in downtown areas or those with cover charges often yield higher tips. Additionally, unionized bars or those with profit-sharing models may offer better compensation. Tax deductions and expenses (e.g., uniform costs, transportation) are not included in this range. Data from the Illinois Department of Labor (2023) confirms that 68% of Chicago bartenders report monthly earnings between $2,400 and $4,200, aligning with these estimates.