How much does a Barista make?
Baristas enjoy a rewarding career that combines creativity with customer service. The average yearly salary for a barista stands at $33,981. This figure reflects a range of earnings, influenced by factors such as location, experience, and the type of establishment. For those just starting in the field, salaries can be lower. However, as baristas gain experience and develop a loyal customer base, they often see their earnings increase.
The salary distribution for baristas shows a broad spread. The lowest 10% earn around $22,000 annually, while the top 10% can make over $44,620. This range highlights the potential for growth in the role. Many baristas also have opportunities for additional income through tips, especially in busy cafes. Additionally, baristas who take on extra responsibilities, such as managing a shift or training new staff, may see higher pay. This career path offers both stability and the chance for financial advancement.
What are the highest paying cities for a Barista?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $42,866
Seattle offers a vibrant coffee culture with many cafes. Workers enjoy a lively atmosphere and diverse clientele. Companies like Starbucks and Blue Bottle Coffee are prominent.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $42,319
Santa Maria has a growing coffee scene. Employees can enjoy a warm community and a relaxed work environment. Local cafes provide a great place to work.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $42,257
Salinas offers a friendly work environment. Employees can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere. Local cafes and small businesses provide a welcoming place to work.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $41,974
Visalia has a close-knit community. Workers enjoy a friendly atmosphere. Local cafes and small businesses offer a great place to work.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $41,464
Modesto offers a diverse work environment. Employees can enjoy a mix of urban and suburban settings. Local cafes provide a welcoming place to work.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $41,324
Bakersfield has a growing coffee culture. Workers enjoy a warm community. Local cafes and small businesses offer a great place to work.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $41,258
Stockton offers a vibrant coffee scene. Employees can enjoy a diverse clientele. Local cafes provide a welcoming place to work.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,102
San Jose has a dynamic coffee culture. Workers enjoy a bustling environment. Companies like Starbucks and Peet's Coffee are prominent.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $40,849
San Francisco offers a vibrant coffee scene. Employees can enjoy a diverse clientele. Companies like Blue Bottle Coffee and Starbucks are prominent.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $40,439
Vallejo has a growing coffee culture. Workers enjoy a warm community. Local cafes provide a welcoming place to work.
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What are the best companies a Barista can work for?

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Mohegan Sun
Average Salary: $70,451
Mohegan Sun offers a dynamic environment for baristas, with locations in Connecticut. Employees enjoy a competitive salary and benefits. The company values skilled baristas who can create a welcoming atmosphere.
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Apple
Average Salary: $60,843
Apple provides a unique setting for baristas, with locations in various tech hubs. Employees benefit from a high salary and a vibrant workplace. The company seeks baristas who can blend coffee expertise with a tech-savvy approach.
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FareStart
Average Salary: $50,054
FareStart offers a supportive environment for baristas, with locations in the Pacific Northwest. Employees enjoy a fair salary and meaningful work. The company values baristas who are committed to social impact.
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Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $46,743
Hyatt Vacation Ownership provides a luxurious setting for baristas, with locations across the United States. Employees benefit from a competitive salary and a prestigious brand. The company seeks baristas who can deliver exceptional service.
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bigfoot java
Average Salary: $46,439
bigfoot java offers a cozy environment for baristas, with locations in the Midwest. Employees enjoy a fair salary and a welcoming atmosphere. The company values baristas who are passionate about coffee and customer service.
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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $45,879
The University Of Washington provides an academic setting for baristas, with locations in Seattle. Employees benefit from a fair salary and a vibrant campus. The company seeks baristas who can engage with students and faculty.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $45,689
UPMC offers a healthcare setting for baristas, with locations in Pennsylvania. Employees enjoy a fair salary and a supportive environment. The company values baristas who can provide excellent service to patients and staff.
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Big Shoulders Coffee
Average Salary: $45,318
Big Shoulders Coffee offers a trendy environment for baristas, with locations in Chicago. Employees benefit from a fair salary and a dynamic workplace. The company seeks baristas who are creative and passionate about coffee.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $44,924
Marriott Vacations Worldwide provides a resort setting for baristas, with locations worldwide. Employees enjoy a fair salary and a prestigious brand. The company seeks baristas who can deliver exceptional service to guests.
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SpaceX
Average Salary: $44,833
SpaceX offers a cutting-edge environment for baristas, with locations in California. Employees benefit from a fair salary and a forward-thinking company. The company seeks baristas who are innovative and committed to excellence.
How to earn more as a Barista?
Becoming a top-earning barista involves more than just making coffee. It requires a combination of skills, dedication, and strategic thinking. Baristas who excel in their craft often find ways to increase their earnings through various means. One key factor is mastering the art of coffee preparation. This includes understanding different brewing methods and perfecting techniques to create high-quality drinks. Another important factor is developing excellent customer service skills. Building rapport with customers can lead to repeat business and higher tips. Additionally, baristas who take the initiative to learn new skills, such as latte art or specialty brewing techniques, can set themselves apart and command higher wages.
Networking and building relationships within the coffee industry can also lead to higher-paying opportunities. Attending workshops, joining coffee associations, and participating in local coffee events can open doors to new job prospects. Finally, baristas who demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning and improvement often find themselves in higher-paying positions. This can include seeking certifications, attending training sessions, and staying updated on the latest trends in coffee. By focusing on these factors, baristas can enhance their skills and increase their earning potential.
Here are five factors that can help a barista earn more:
- Mastering coffee preparation techniques
- Developing excellent customer service skills
- Learning new skills such as latte art or specialty brewing
- Networking within the coffee industry
- Committing to continuous learning and improvement