Barista Salary in Chapel Hill, NC

Updated on May 09, 2025
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How much does a Barista make in Chapel Hill, NC?

The average salary for a Barista is $30,285 per year in Chapel Hill, NC.

In Chapel Hill, NC, a Barista can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for a Barista in this area is around $30,285. This figure can vary based on experience, the specific coffee shop, and the demand for skilled baristas. Many baristas start at the lower end of the salary range, but with experience and skill development, they can move up to higher pay brackets.

Factors that influence a Barista's earnings include the type of coffee shop, such as independent cafes versus larger chains, and the barista's ability to upsell and create popular drinks. Baristas who excel in customer service and have a strong understanding of coffee can often earn more. Additionally, some baristas may receive tips, which can add to their overall income. This makes the role of a Barista not only rewarding in terms of job satisfaction but also potentially lucrative.

Barista jobs in Chapel Hill, NC

What are the highest paying cities for a Barista near Chapel Hill, NC?

Barista jobs near Chapel Hill, NC, offer competitive pay in several nearby cities. Carrboro, NC, stands out with the highest average salary, making it an attractive option for job seekers. Winston-Salem, NC, and Sanford, NC, also provide good earning potential for those in the barista field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Barista jobs near Chapel Hill, NC, highlighting Carrboro, NC with the highest at $38,429 and Cary, NC with the lowest at $29,861.
  1. Carrboro, NC
    Average Salary: $38,429
    Carrboro offers a vibrant community for those in the coffee industry. With a growing number of cafes, job seekers can find opportunities to work in a lively and welcoming environment. Local cafes like The Daily Planet and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf provide a chance to connect with the community.
    Find Barista jobs in Carrboro, NC


  2. Winston-Salem, NC
    Average Salary: $33,009
    Winston-Salem is known for its rich coffee culture. Job seekers can find positions in well-established coffee shops and cafes. Companies like Krispy Kreme and Peet's Coffee offer a chance to work in a dynamic and professional setting.
    Find Barista jobs in Winston-Salem, NC


  3. Sanford, NC
    Average Salary: $32,439
    Sanford provides a friendly atmosphere for coffee enthusiasts. Job seekers can explore opportunities in cozy cafes and local coffee shops. Places like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and local independent cafes offer a chance to work in a supportive environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Sanford, NC


  4. Holly Springs, NC
    Average Salary: $31,985
    Holly Springs offers a charming setting for coffee lovers. Job seekers can find positions in quaint cafes and local coffee shops. Companies like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and local independent cafes provide a welcoming environment to work in.
    Find Barista jobs in Holly Springs, NC


  5. Durham, NC
    Average Salary: $31,917
    Durham is a hub for coffee culture with a variety of cafes and coffee shops. Job seekers can find opportunities in both large chains and local independent cafes. Companies like Starbucks and local favorites offer a chance to work in a vibrant and diverse environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Durham, NC


  6. Burlington, NC
    Average Salary: $31,687
    Burlington offers a mix of local charm and coffee opportunities. Job seekers can find positions in cozy cafes and coffee shops. Companies like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and local independent cafes provide a supportive environment to work in.
    Find Barista jobs in Burlington, NC


  7. Morrisville, NC
    Average Salary: $30,916
    Morrisville provides a growing community for coffee enthusiasts. Job seekers can find opportunities in modern cafes and coffee shops. Companies like Peet's Coffee and local independent cafes offer a chance to work in a dynamic and professional setting.
    Find Barista jobs in Morrisville, NC


  8. Wake Forest, NC
    Average Salary: $30,782
    Wake Forest offers a welcoming environment for coffee lovers. Job seekers can find positions in local cafes and coffee shops. Companies like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and local independent cafes provide a supportive environment to work in.
    Find Barista jobs in Wake Forest, NC


  9. Garner, NC
    Average Salary: $30,387
    Garner provides a friendly setting for coffee enthusiasts. Job seekers can find opportunities in cozy cafes and coffee shops. Companies like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and local independent cafes offer a chance to work in a supportive environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Garner, NC


  10. Cary, NC
    Average Salary: $29,861
    Cary offers a vibrant community for those in the coffee industry. Job seekers can find positions in modern cafes and coffee shops. Companies like Starbucks and local independent cafes provide a chance to work in a dynamic and professional setting.
    Find Barista jobs in Cary, NC

What are the best paying companies for a Barista in Chapel Hill, NC?

Baristas in Chapel Hill, NC, can find good pay at several well-known companies. Starbucks offers one of the highest salaries, with an average of $33,564. Harris Teeter also provides a competitive wage, averaging $31,510 per year. Snooze an AM Eatery, Sheraton, and McDonald's offer solid pay, with average salaries ranging from $31,113 to $29,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Barista jobs in Chapel Hill, NC, highlighting Starbucks with the highest at $33,564 and McDonald's with the lowest at $29,000.
  1. Starbucks
    Average Salary: $33,564
    Starbucks offers Barista jobs in Chapel Hill, NC. They provide training and opportunities for career growth. Starbucks locations are found throughout the city, including downtown and near UNC Chapel Hill.


  2. Harris Teeter
    Average Salary: $31,510
    Harris Teeter has Barista positions in Chapel Hill, NC. They focus on a friendly work environment and offer competitive pay. Their stores are located in various parts of the city, including Franklin Street and near the Research Triangle Park.


  3. Snooze an AM Eatery
    Average Salary: $31,113
    Snooze an AM Eatery provides Barista jobs in Chapel Hill, NC. They offer a welcoming atmosphere and chances for advancement. Their cafes are situated downtown and near the University of North Carolina.


  4. Sheraton
    Average Salary: $30,500
    Sheraton has Barista positions in Chapel Hill, NC. They provide a professional environment and opportunities for growth. Their hotel is located downtown, offering a vibrant setting for baristas.


  5. McDonald's
    Average Salary: $29,000
    McDonald's offers Barista jobs in Chapel Hill, NC. They provide training and a chance to grow within the company. Their restaurants are found throughout the city, including near UNC Chapel Hill and downtown.

Currently 8,159 Barista job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Barista in the US?

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Barista
8,159 Job Openings