Employment of bartenders is expected to grow 9 percent from 2010 to 2020, slower than the average for all occupations.
As people continue to dine out and drink at a variety of food and drinking places, many new bars, taverns, and restaurants are expected to open to meet demand. However, the growing popularity of take-out food and the growing number and variety of places that offer self-service or carryout options, including many full-service restaurants, will limit employment growth.
Job opportunities are expected to be good because of the need to replace workers who leave the occupation. Strong competition is expected for bartending jobs in popular restaurants and fine-dining establishments, where potential earnings from tips are greatest. Those who have graduated from bartending school and those with previous work experience and excellent customer-service skills will have the best job prospects.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2012-13 Edition