How much does a Barista make?
A Barista's job involves preparing coffee drinks and serving customers. The average yearly salary for a Barista is around $34,000. This salary can change based on experience, location, and the type of coffee shop. Some Baristas earn more than the average, while others earn less.
The salary range for Baristas can vary. The lowest 10% earn less than $22,000. The highest 10% earn more than $44,000. Most Baristas fall somewhere in the middle. Their earnings can also increase with tips and bonuses. Baristas who work in busy coffee shops or popular areas often earn more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Barista?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $42,687
Seattle offers a vibrant coffee culture with many cafes. Workers enjoy a lively atmosphere and diverse clientele. Starbucks and other local chains provide ample opportunities.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $41,976
Salinas has a growing coffee scene with many local cafes. Employees benefit from a friendly community and a chance to connect with regulars. Local businesses offer a warm, welcoming environment.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $41,805
Visalia provides a relaxed setting for coffee enthusiasts. Workers enjoy a slower pace and a chance to build strong relationships with customers. Local cafes offer a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $41,525
Santa Maria has a charming coffee culture with many family-owned cafes. Employees enjoy a close-knit community and a chance to work in a supportive environment. Local businesses value friendly service.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $41,227
Modesto offers a diverse coffee scene with many local and national chains. Workers enjoy a dynamic environment and a chance to meet a varied clientele. Opportunities for growth and learning are plentiful.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $41,071
Bakersfield has a growing coffee culture with many local cafes. Employees enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to connect with the community. Local businesses offer a friendly and supportive work environment.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $40,940
San Jose offers a bustling coffee scene with many tech-driven cafes. Workers enjoy a fast-paced environment and a chance to meet a diverse clientele. Opportunities for career advancement are abundant.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $40,700
Stockton provides a friendly coffee culture with many local cafes. Employees enjoy a supportive environment and a chance to build strong relationships with customers. Local businesses value community involvement.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $40,697
San Francisco offers a vibrant and diverse coffee scene. Workers enjoy a dynamic environment and a chance to meet a varied clientele. Opportunities for creativity and innovation are plentiful.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $40,450
Vallejo has a charming coffee culture with many local cafes. Employees enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to connect with the community. Local businesses offer a friendly and supportive work environment.
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What are the best companies a Barista can work for?

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Mohegan Sun
Average Salary: $65,806
Mohegan Sun offers exciting opportunities for Baristas in its vibrant casino and resort. Located in Connecticut, it provides a dynamic work environment with various locations to serve guests.
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RH
Average Salary: $46,700
RH, a renowned interior design company, offers Barista positions in its retail stores. Working here means creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers in locations like California and New York.
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Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $46,589
Hyatt Vacation Ownership provides Barista roles in its vacation resorts. Employees enjoy a friendly environment and the chance to work in various locations, including Florida and Hawaii.
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bigfoot java
Average Salary: $46,303
bigfoot java is a popular coffee shop chain with Barista positions available in its stores. Locations span across the Midwest, offering a cozy setting to serve coffee lovers.
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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $45,766
The University Of Washington offers Barista jobs in its campus cafes. Employees enjoy a vibrant academic environment and serve students and faculty in Seattle, Washington.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $45,604
UPMC provides Barista positions in its healthcare facilities. Employees work in a supportive environment, serving patients and staff in locations across Pennsylvania.
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Big Shoulders Coffee
Average Salary: $45,348
Big Shoulders Coffee offers Barista roles in its coffee shops. Locations in Chicago provide a welcoming atmosphere for coffee enthusiasts.
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SpaceX
Average Salary: $44,833
SpaceX offers Barista positions in its cafeterias. Employees enjoy a cutting-edge work environment and serve staff in Hawthorne, California.
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Marriott Vacations Worldwide
Average Salary: $44,345
Marriott Vacations Worldwide provides Barista roles in its resorts. Employees work in a luxurious setting and serve guests in various locations worldwide.
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HEIRLOOM MARKET
Average Salary: $44,000
HEIRLOOM MARKET offers Barista positions in its stores. Locations in the Northeast offer a unique shopping experience for customers.
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. By focusing on certain key factors, baristas can enhance their earning potential. One important factor is mastering a wide range of coffee drinks. Knowing how to prepare various beverages, from espresso to latte art, can attract more customers and command higher tips.
Another factor is developing excellent customer service skills. A friendly and efficient barista can create a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging repeat business. Building a rapport with customers can lead to loyal patrons who are more likely to spend extra on premium drinks. Additionally, staying updated with the latest coffee trends and techniques can set a barista apart. Attending workshops and training sessions can provide valuable knowledge and skills that can be monetized. Networking with other baristas and industry professionals can also open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs. Finally, maintaining a clean and professional appearance can make a positive impression on customers, leading to better tips and customer satisfaction.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a barista:
- Master a wide range of coffee drinks.
- Develop excellent customer service skills.
- Stay updated with the latest coffee trends and techniques.
- Network with other baristas and industry professionals.
- Maintain a clean and professional appearance.