Barista Salary in Santa Cruz, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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City
Salary

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

The average salary for a Barista is $37,375 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

A Barista in Santa Cruz, CA, earns an average salary that reflects the local cost of living and the demand for skilled coffee professionals. The average annual salary for a Barista in this area is around $37,375. This figure can vary based on experience, the specific coffee shop, and the number of hours worked.

Factors that can influence a Barista's earnings include:

  • Experience: More experienced baristas often earn higher wages.
  • Location: Some coffee shops may offer higher pay than others.
  • Hours: Full-time positions typically provide a more stable income compared to part-time work.

Job seekers in Santa Cruz can find a range of opportunities in this field, with salaries offering a competitive edge in the local job market.

Barista jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

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

Barista jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, offer competitive pay, with nearby cities providing even higher salaries. San Jose, CA, stands out with an average annual salary of $40,374. This makes it a prime location for job seekers looking to maximize their earnings in the barista field. Other nearby cities like Watsonville and Salinas also offer attractive compensation packages.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Barista jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting King City, CA with the highest at $43,240 and Monterey, CA with the lowest at $38,777.
  1. King City, CA
    Average Salary: $43,240
    In King City, coffee enthusiasts can find fulfilling roles in local cafes. The community values quality and service, making it a great place to start or grow a career in coffee. Local businesses like King City Coffee Roasters offer a welcoming environment.
    Find Barista jobs in King City, CA


  2. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $41,457
    Watsonville offers a vibrant coffee scene with many local cafes seeking skilled baristas. The city's diverse community appreciates fresh, high-quality coffee. Companies like Watsonville Coffee Co. provide a supportive workplace.
    Find Barista jobs in Watsonville, CA


  3. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $41,446
    Salinas has a growing demand for coffee professionals. The city's cafes value creativity and customer service. Salinas Coffee House is a prominent employer, offering a dynamic work environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Salinas, CA


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $40,374
    San Jose's bustling coffee culture provides many opportunities for baristas. The city's tech-savvy population enjoys innovative coffee experiences. Companies like Blue Bottle Coffee offer modern and engaging workplaces.
    Find Barista jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Hollister, CA
    Average Salary: $40,166
    Hollister offers a charming setting for coffee lovers. The city's cafes focus on quality and community. Local businesses like Hollister Coffee Roasters are known for their warm and inviting atmosphere.
    Find Barista jobs in Hollister, CA


  6. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $40,049
    Los Gatos boasts a sophisticated coffee culture with many upscale cafes. The city's residents appreciate artisanal coffee. Companies like Los Gatos Coffee Co. provide a professional and welcoming environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  7. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $39,972
    Scotts Valley offers a serene environment for coffee professionals. The city's cafes focus on quality and customer experience. Local businesses like Scotts Valley Coffee Roasters are known for their friendly service.
    Find Barista jobs in Scotts Valley, CA


  8. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $39,944
    Palo Alto's vibrant coffee scene offers many opportunities for baristas. The city's residents enjoy innovative coffee experiences. Companies like Palo Alto Coffee Co. provide a modern and engaging workplace.
    Find Barista jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  9. Soquel, CA
    Average Salary: $38,823
    Soquel provides a laid-back setting for coffee enthusiasts. The city's cafes value creativity and community. Local businesses like Soquel Coffee Roasters offer a supportive and welcoming environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Soquel, CA


  10. Monterey, CA
    Average Salary: $38,777
    Monterey's coastal charm makes it a great place for coffee lovers. The city's cafes focus on quality and customer service. Companies like Monterey Coffee Co. provide a vibrant and engaging work environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Monterey, CA

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

Baristas in Santa Cruz, CA, can find good pay at Starbucks. The average salary there is around $42,629. Coffeetopia offers a slightly lower average salary of $34,200. Both companies provide a welcoming environment for coffee lovers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Barista jobs in Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Starbucks with the highest at $42,629 and Coffeetopia with the lowest at $34,200.
  1. Starbucks
    Average Salary: $42,629
    Starbucks offers exciting opportunities for Baristas in Santa Cruz, CA. They provide training and career growth. Locations include downtown Santa Cruz, near the beach, and at the University of California, Santa Cruz.


  2. Coffeetopia
    Average Salary: $34,200
    Coffeetopia is a local favorite in Santa Cruz, CA. They offer a welcoming environment for Baristas. Their cafes are located in downtown Santa Cruz and near the boardwalk, providing a vibrant atmosphere for coffee lovers.

Currently 8,159 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.
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Barista
8,159 Job Openings