How much does a Barista make 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.
What are the highest paying cities for a Barista near Santa Cruz, CA?

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

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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.
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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.
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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.
What are the best paying Barista related jobs in Santa Cruz, CA?

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Pastry Chef
Average Salary: $59,760
A pastry chef crafts beautiful baked goods in a kitchen. This role requires creativity and skill with ingredients. Top employers in the city include local cafes and patisseries.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $42,830
Line cooks prepare meals quickly and efficiently. This position needs teamwork and speed. Many cafes and restaurants in the area seek skilled line cooks.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $42,779
This role focuses on helping customers with their needs. It involves communication and problem-solving skills. Companies in the area look for friendly and helpful individuals.
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Coffee Roaster
Average Salary: $42,000
Coffee roasters turn green coffee beans into rich, aromatic coffee. This job involves attention to detail and a love for coffee. Local coffee shops often hire skilled roasters.
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Shift Leader
Average Salary: $39,291
Shift leaders manage teams and ensure smooth operations. They need leadership and communication skills. Many local food service companies hire shift leaders.
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Server
Average Salary: $38,604
Servers attend to customers, take orders, and deliver food. This position requires a friendly demeanor and efficiency. Local restaurants often need skilled servers.
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Cashier
Average Salary: $38,176
Cashiers handle transactions and customer interactions. This role demands accuracy and customer service skills. Many local businesses seek reliable cashiers.
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