Barback salary in South Africa

Average Yearly Salary of Barback in South Africa is approximately 54,925 ZAR (2,761 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Barback do?

A barback is a support role in the hospitality industry, specifically in bars and nightclubs. The primary responsibility of a barback is to assist the bartenders and ensure smooth operations behind the bar. This can include restocking and organizing bar supplies such as liquor bottles, glassware, and mixers, as well as replenishing ice and garnishes. Barbacks also clean and maintain the bar area, including wiping down surfaces and washing glassware. They may be responsible for collecting empty glasses and plates from tables and clearing them away. Additionally, barbacks may assist with preparing basic drinks and cocktails, as well as handling cash transactions. This role requires physical stamina, multitasking ability, and good communication skills to work effectively in a fast-paced environment.

Skills: barback, hospitality, support role, bartending, nightlife, customer service
Job industry: Hospitality

How much does Barback make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Barback a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Barback is quite an underpaid paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Barback might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Barback?

High salary for Barback would be somewhere between 60,418 ZAR and 79,641 ZAR. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Barback in South Africa?

Living in South Africa the approximate monthly expenses are: 271 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 54,925 ZAR
Estimated Monthly Salary: 4,577 ZAR
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,056 ZAR per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 26 ZAR per hour
Our data indicates that by working as Barback you will not be able to save much money and will likely need to make adjustments to your lifestyle to go comfortably through the month.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in South Africa, see costs of living in South Africa.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini, Lesotho.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Barback

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

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Data as of 2025

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