Position
City
Salary

How much does a Barista make in Santa Cruz, CA?

The average salary for a Barista is $39,247 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

A Barista working in Santa Cruz, CA, can expect to earn an average yearly salary of $39,247. This position offers a stable income, which can be a great option for job seekers. The salary distribution varies, with the majority of Baristas earning between $35,255 and $43,145 annually.


Some of the key factors that may influence a Barista's salary in Santa Cruz, CA, include experience, skills, and the specific coffee shop they work for. Additionally, those with higher levels of customer service and technical expertise can often earn more. It’s also worth noting that Santa Cruz is a popular tourist destination, which can lead to higher tips for baristas. For those interested in a career as a Barista, Santa Cruz offers a range of opportunities with competitive salaries.

Barista jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Barista near Santa Cruz, CA?

Job seekers looking to become baristas in cities near Santa Cruz, CA, can find competitive salaries. King City offers the highest average salary at $43,240. Nearby Salinas also provides a strong earning potential at $42,908 annually. These figures highlight good opportunities for those in the area.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Barista jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting King City, CA with the highest at $43,240 and Hollister, CA with the lowest at $40,337.
  1. King City, CA
    Average Salary: $43,240
    In King City, coffee lovers enjoy a range of small local cafes. Many businesses, such as King City Café, offer a cozy atmosphere for coffee enthusiasts. These spots allow you to connect with the community and develop strong customer relationships.
    Find Barista jobs in King City, CA


  2. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $42,908
    Salinas has a vibrant coffee scene with popular chains like Starbucks and local favorites like The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf. Working here, you get to serve a diverse crowd. The city's laid-back vibe makes each shift enjoyable and fulfilling.
    Find Barista jobs in Salinas, CA


  3. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $42,441
    Los Gatos is known for its charming cafes. Many locals frequent places like Peet's Coffee. In this city, baristas enjoy a friendly, close-knit community. It’s a great place for those who love to craft unique coffee creations and build lasting relationships.
    Find Barista jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  4. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $41,787
    Watsonville offers a mix of bustling cafes and quaint coffee shops. Working here means you'll be part of a diverse coffee culture. Businesses like Café del Gato provide a welcoming environment for baristas to grow their skills.
    Find Barista jobs in Watsonville, CA


  5. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $41,393
    San Jose’s tech-driven culture extends to its coffee scene. Major companies such as Google and Adobe have nearby cafes. This city offers a dynamic work environment where baristas can thrive. It’s ideal for those seeking career growth and innovation.
    Find Barista jobs in San Jose, CA


  6. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $41,156
    Scotts Valley combines a small-town feel with a thriving coffee culture. Local cafes like Common Ground Coffee create a warm, inviting setting. Here, you can enjoy a relaxed pace while meeting new faces each day.
    Find Barista jobs in Scotts Valley, CA


  7. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $40,920
    Palo Alto is home to a variety of coffee shops, including well-known names like Intelligentsia Coffee. Working in this city means you'll be part of a vibrant community. The professional environment is perfect for those looking to excel in their craft.
    Find Barista jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  8. Pacific Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $40,892
    Pacific Grove offers a serene coffee scene with charming cafes like The Coffee Mill. This city’s coastal charm provides a peaceful backdrop for baristas to serve a variety of coffee lovers. It's an excellent place for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
    Find Barista jobs in Pacific Grove, CA


  9. Monterey, CA
    Average Salary: $40,518
    Monterey boasts a rich coffee culture with spots like Aroma Joe's Coffee & Tea. The city’s historic setting offers a unique experience for baristas. Working here allows you to engage with locals and tourists alike, creating a diverse work environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Monterey, CA


  10. Hollister, CA
    Average Salary: $40,337
    Hollister offers a blend of traditional and modern coffee shops. Places like Coffee Republic provide a welcoming atmosphere for baristas. This city’s friendly environment makes it a great place to connect with customers and colleagues.
    Find Barista jobs in Hollister, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Barista in Santa Cruz, CA?

Seeking a barista job in Santa Cruz, CA? Consider working for Starbucks, which offers the highest average salary of $43,240. This company is known for its benefits and opportunities. Another option is Albertsons, offering a salary of $37,567 on average. This company provides a stable work environment with room for growth. Coffeetopia is also a solid choice, offering an average salary of $35,000. This company emphasizes a welcoming culture and training.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Barista jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Starbucks with the highest at $43,240 and Coffeetopia with the lowest at $35,000.
  1. Starbucks
    Average Salary: $43,240
    Starbucks offers rewarding barista positions in Santa Cruz and other nearby locations. Employees benefit from training and opportunities for career growth. With over 30,000 stores worldwide, Starbucks provides a stable and growing work environment.


  2. Albertsons
    Average Salary: $37,567
    Albertsons provides diverse opportunities for baristas in Santa Cruz. The company offers competitive salaries and benefits. With a wide network of supermarkets, Albertsons is a well-established company with many opportunities for advancement.


  3. Coffeetopia
    Average Salary: $35,000
    Coffeetopia offers exciting barista positions in Santa Cruz. The company focuses on high-quality coffee and customer service. With several locations in the Bay Area, Coffeetopia is a great choice for those who love coffee and enjoy a community-focused workplace.

Currently 7,331 Barista job openings, nationwide.

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

Learn what a Barista does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Barista today.
Position
Overview
Barista
7,331 Job Openings