Bartenders, waiters, and other frontline workers could earn up to $2,200 more per year under Alaska’s new $13 minimum wage.
JUNEAU, Alaska, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — According to hospitality job platform OysterLink, Alaska’s new $13.00 minimum wage could affect the pay of over 10,000 hospitality workers, especially those working in lower-wage roles such as bartenders, waiters, fast-food crew, porters, and hosts.
The new wage, effective this year, replaces the previous minimum of $11.91/hour. Since Alaska does not permit a lower tipped wage, this increase applies equally to both tipped and non-tipped positions.
Bartenders (2,070 employed) earn an average of $17.80 per hour, with entry wages between $11.73 and $12.25 affecting up to 25% of workers. Waiters and waitresses (3,980 employees) make about $18.13 hourly on average, with starting pay around $11.73.
Fast-food workers, the largest group at 5,060, average $15.69 per hour, with entry wages at $11.73 impacting up to a quarter of staff. Hosts and hostesses (820 employed) see average wages of $17.44, with starting pay ranging from $11.73 to $14.
Porters, though few (40 workers), mostly earn around $11.73 at the lower end, with an average hourly wage of $16.33.
What This Means for Workers
Even a modest raise like this can result in a yearly increase of over $2,200 for full-time workers who were previously earning the old minimum wage. That extra income could help cover basic expenses, such as groceries, utilities, or rent, which is especially important in Alaska’s high-cost regions.
“This new minimum wage gives a boost to the workers who need it most — the ones who keep restaurants, hotels, and cafes running every day,” said Milos Eric, general manager and co-founder of OysterLink. “It’s a step toward fairer wages and better retention in a demanding industry.”
What Employers Should Know
Employers may need to adjust wages for employees who were previously earning under $13 per hour. The ripple effect may also influence pay rates for more experienced team members to avoid compression between new hires and long-term staff.
OysterLink encourages employers to update job postings and wage disclosures to remain compliant and competitive in attracting talent.
Looking Forward
While roles such as restaurant managers and chefs won’t be directly affected, the updated law could lead to a broader increase in average wages over time. For frontline hospitality staff, it marks a meaningful shift — over 10,000 workers could now see a more secure, fairly paid start to their careers in Alaska’s service industry.
About OysterLink
OysterLink is a leading job platform dedicated to the hospitality industry. We connect restaurants, hotels, and hospitality employers with skilled candidates across the U.S. and internationally.
With job listings like server jobs in New York City and bartender jobs in Alaska, industry insights, and career resources, OysterLink helps professionals build rewarding careers in the hospitality industry.
Currently, OysterLink attracts over 400,000 monthly visitors and continues to grow steadily.
Media Contact
press@oysterlink.com
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SOURCE OysterLink
