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

The average salary for a Barista is $39,045 per year in Santa Cruz, CA.

In Santa Cruz, California, a Barista earns an average yearly salary of around $39,045. This figure can change based on experience and other factors. Many Baristas in Santa Cruz find their work both enjoyable and rewarding.

Here are some typical salaries for Baristas in Santa Cruz, according to recent data:

  • $33,000 for entry-level positions
  • $35,255 for those with a bit of experience
  • $37,509 for mid-career Baristas
  • $43,145 for the most experienced Baristas

Barista jobs in Santa Cruz, CA

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

Barista jobs around Santa Cruz, CA, offer various opportunities, particularly in high-paying cities. Palo Alto leads with an average salary of $44,679, making it a prime location for baristas seeking competitive pay. Nearby, cities like King City and Salinas also provide substantial salaries, around $43,240 and $43,057 respectively, making these areas attractive to job seekers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Barista jobs near Santa Cruz, CA, highlighting Palo Alto, CA with the highest at $44,679 and Hollister, CA with the lowest at $40,579.
  1. Palo Alto, CA
    Average Salary: $44,679
    In Palo Alto, baristas find themselves in a tech-savvy city filled with innovative companies. With a high demand for coffee in bustling workplaces, experienced baristas can thrive. Google and other tech firms offer opportunities for those skilled in making diverse coffee drinks.
    Find Barista jobs in Palo Alto, CA


  2. King City, CA
    Average Salary: $43,240
    King City offers a relaxed environment with opportunities in local coffee shops and small businesses. Baristas here enjoy a tight-knit community, offering a chance to connect with customers on a personal level. The laid-back atmosphere provides a great setting for anyone looking to start or advance in a coffee-related career.
    Find Barista jobs in King City, CA


  3. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $43,057
    Salinas boasts a vibrant food scene with plenty of local cafés looking for talented baristas. With a diverse community, there’s a demand for unique and traditional coffee offerings. Working in Salinas provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities to learn and grow.
    Find Barista jobs in Salinas, CA


  4. Los Gatos, CA
    Average Salary: $42,952
    Los Gatos features charming coffee shops that attract both locals and visitors. Baristas here enjoy a creative atmosphere where they can experiment with new recipes and coffee blends. The town’s appreciation for quality coffee makes it an ideal place for baristas to hone their skills.
    Find Barista jobs in Los Gatos, CA


  5. Watsonville, CA
    Average Salary: $41,848
    Watsonville is a welcoming city with a strong coffee culture supported by local farms and businesses. Baristas can enjoy working in community-focused cafes where they can build lasting relationships with customers. The city’s agricultural roots provide a unique backdrop for coffee enthusiasts.
    Find Barista jobs in Watsonville, CA


  6. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $41,502
    San Jose is a bustling hub with many tech companies and startups that create a steady demand for coffee. Baristas can find opportunities in various cafes, from trendy spots to established chains. The city's vibrant atmosphere offers ample chances for professional growth and networking.
    Find Barista jobs in San Jose, CA


  7. Pacific Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $41,220
    Pacific Grove offers a serene environment with a focus on quality and hospitality. Baristas here work in charming cafes that attract both residents and tourists. The coastal setting provides a peaceful backdrop, making it an enjoyable place to serve coffee and connect with a diverse clientele.
    Find Barista jobs in Pacific Grove, CA


  8. Scotts Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $41,087
    In Scotts Valley, baristas can enjoy a laid-back lifestyle while working in welcoming coffee shops. The town’s small-town charm allows baristas to build strong community ties. Opportunities exist for those who enjoy a quieter, yet rewarding work environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Scotts Valley, CA


  9. Monterey, CA
    Average Salary: $40,635
    Monterey’s rich history and vibrant tourism scene create a steady demand for quality coffee. Baristas here work in cafes that cater to both locals and visitors, offering a dynamic work environment. The city’s scenic beauty provides a pleasant setting for serving coffee and engaging with a diverse crowd.
    Find Barista jobs in Monterey, CA


  10. Hollister, CA
    Average Salary: $40,579
    Hollister is a friendly town with a growing coffee culture. Baristas can find opportunities in various cafes that cater to a mix of locals and travelers. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place for those looking to develop their barista skills in a supportive environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Hollister, CA

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

Job seekers in Santa Cruz, CA, can find great opportunities with Starbucks, which pays an average of $43,240 per year for barista positions. Albertsons offers a competitive average salary of $37,567, providing another attractive option. Coffeetopia also offers a good salary of $35,250 for baristas. Each of these companies offers stable employment and a chance to grow in the coffee industry.
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 $35,250.
  1. Starbucks
    Average Salary: $43,240
    Starbucks offers rewarding Barista jobs in Santa Cruz. This global coffee giant provides a professional environment and training for baristas. Workers can find positions at several locations in Santa Cruz, including the downtown area and University Avenue.


  2. Albertsons
    Average Salary: $37,567
    Albertsons is a prominent chain with multiple stores in Santa Cruz. They seek dedicated baristas who can provide excellent customer service. Baristas at Albertsons enjoy a friendly atmosphere and opportunities for growth within the company. Stores are located in various parts of the city, including Scotts Valley and Capitola.


  3. Coffeetopia
    Average Salary: $35,250
    Coffeetopia is a local favorite, offering an inviting place for Barista jobs. The company prides itself on its warm, community-focused approach. Baristas can expect a chance to work in cozy, well-known shops located throughout Santa Cruz, including Beach Street and Main Street.

Currently 8,884 Barista job openings, nationwide.

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Barista
8,884 Job Openings