Barista Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Barista make?

The average salary for a Barista is $34,198 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Barista positions, showing an average salary of $34,198 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Barista positions, showing an average salary of $34,198 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Barista positions, showing an average salary of $34,198 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Barista positions, showing an average salary of $34,198 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Becoming a barista can be a rewarding job for those who love working with people and enjoy the fast-paced environment of a coffee shop. Many baristas start at the lower end of the pay scale, making around $22,000 per year. As baristas gain experience and skill, they can move up to higher-paying positions.

Most baristas fall into the middle of the salary range. The median salary sits comfortably around $32,455 per year. This is a good wage for someone starting their career in this field. With dedication and hard work, a barista can move up the pay scale, potentially earning $40,818 or more annually. This salary data shows the potential for growth and advancement in this career.

What are the highest paying cities for a Barista?

Barista jobs pay well in many cities, but the highest earners often find themselves in Seattle, WA, where the average salary is $43,580 annually. Other top cities include Visalia, CA, and Santa Maria, CA, with average salaries of around $43,000. These locations offer competitive pay and a chance to work in vibrant coffee cultures.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Barista jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $43,580 and Vallejo, CA with the lowest at $41,198.

Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,580
In Seattle, coffee culture thrives. Cafes and coffee shops are popular, providing a vibrant environment. Starbucks and local chains offer many job openings.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $43,079
Visalia offers a laid-back atmosphere. The city's cafes provide a cozy setting. Local businesses and chains like Peet's Coffee have positions available.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $42,979
Santa Maria's coffee scene is growing. The relaxed vibe makes for a pleasant work environment. Independent cafes and larger brands provide job opportunities.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $42,908
Salinas has a growing coffee culture. The area’s cafes welcome friendly faces. Local shops and chains offer various job openings.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $42,166
Modesto offers a community-focused environment. The city's cafes cater to locals. Coffee shops and chains provide job opportunities.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $41,852
Bakersfield has a bustling coffee scene. The city’s cafes thrive on community. Independent shops and chains offer many job openings.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $41,423
Stockton’s coffee scene is vibrant. The city's cafes provide a welcoming atmosphere. Local businesses and larger chains offer job opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,393
San Jose has a dynamic coffee culture. The city’s cafes are busy and energetic. Independent shops and large chains offer many positions.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $41,354
San Francisco is known for its coffee culture. The city’s cafes are innovative and trendy. Well-known brands and local favorites offer job opportunities.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $41,198
Vallejo offers a laid-back coffee scene. The city's cafes have a relaxed vibe. Local shops and larger brands provide various job openings.
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What are the best companies a Barista can work for?

Companies like Ralph Lauren and bigfoot java offer barista jobs with competitive salaries. Ralph Lauren stands out with an average salary of $137,525. Other notable employers include Big Shoulders Coffee and Advocate Aurora Health, both providing solid wages for baristas.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Barista jobs, highlighting Ralph Lauren with the highest at $137,525 and The Huntley Hotel with the lowest at $44,000.

Ralph Lauren
Average Salary: $137,525
Ralph Lauren offers competitive salaries for its baristas. Employees work in chic, upscale environments, serving specialty coffee. Locations include flagship stores in major cities and luxury hotels.
bigfoot java
Average Salary: $46,547
bigfoot java is known for its cozy atmosphere. Baristas here enjoy a welcoming work environment. The company operates coffee shops in several cities, focusing on community engagement.
UPMC
Average Salary: $45,797
UPMC provides a stable workplace for baristas. Employees serve coffee in hospital settings, offering a unique experience. The company has numerous locations across Pennsylvania and Maryland.
Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $45,746
Advocate Aurora Health values its baristas. They work in healthcare facilities, providing coffee to patients and staff. The company has many locations in Wisconsin and Illinois.
Big Shoulders Coffee
Average Salary: $45,167
Big Shoulders Coffee is a local favorite. Baristas here enjoy a relaxed work environment. The company has several coffee shops in Chicago, focusing on community involvement.
1 Hotels
Average Salary: $44,664
1 Hotels offers stylish settings for its baristas. Employees work in trendy hotels, serving premium coffee. Locations include urban areas, providing a dynamic work environment.
City Market
Average Salary: $44,328
City Market provides a vibrant work setting for baristas. The company runs coffee shops in city centers. Employees enjoy a lively atmosphere and diverse clientele.
Din Tai Fung
Average Salary: $44,032
Din Tai Fung offers a unique dining experience. Baristas here work in popular restaurants, focusing on both coffee and food service. Locations include major cities and tourist areas.
HEIRLOOM MARKET
Average Salary: $44,000
HEIRLOOM MARKET provides a creative work environment. Baristas serve coffee in shops that blend art and coffee culture. The company has several locations in urban settings.
The Huntley Hotel
Average Salary: $44,000
The Huntley Hotel offers a luxurious setting for baristas. Employees work in a historic hotel, providing top-notch coffee service. The company operates in Chicago, offering a prestigious work environment.

How to earn more as a Barista?

If a person wants to earn more as a barista, there are several steps to take. Starting with small changes can lead to greater earnings over time. Focus on skills that can increase customer satisfaction and loyalty. Building a strong reputation can lead to tips and repeat business. Enhancing the customer experience can make a significant difference in earnings.

Consider the following factors to increase earnings as a barista:

Master advanced coffee techniques
Learn to recommend the right drink for each customer
Become an expert in latte art
Build strong customer relationships
Seek feedback and improve service

Improving skills and customer interactions can lead to higher tips and a more enjoyable work environment. Continuous learning and dedication to the craft can enhance job performance and lead to better earnings. Investing in professional development can pay off in the long run.

How much does a Barista make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Barista?

What are the best companies a Barista can work for?

How to earn more as a Barista?

Currently 7,331 Barista job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Barista in the US?

Win at hiring.