Position
Salary

How much does a Barista make?

The average salary for a Barista is $34,114 per year in the US.

A Barista's job involves preparing coffee drinks and serving customers. This job is popular in cafes and coffee shops. The average yearly salary for a Barista is around $34,114. This salary can change based on experience, location, and the type of coffee shop.

Baristas can earn different amounts depending on where they work and how much experience they have. Some earn less than $22,000 a year, while others earn more than $45,000. Most Baristas fall between $26,000 and $38,000. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth in this job. Baristas can increase their earnings by gaining more skills and experience.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Barista?

Baristas in Seattle, WA, enjoy the highest average salary among the listed cities. This city offers a competitive pay rate of $43,122 annually. Job seekers looking for better compensation in this field may find Seattle a promising location. California cities also provide good opportunities. Visalia, Santa Maria, and Salinas offer average salaries close to $43,000. Modesto, Bakersfield, and Stockton follow closely behind, with salaries ranging from $41,000 to $42,000. These cities present solid options for baristas seeking attractive pay.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Barista jobs, highlighting Seattle, WA with the highest at $43,122 and San Francisco, CA with the lowest at $41,116.
  1. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $43,122
    Seattle offers a vibrant coffee culture with many cafes seeking skilled baristas. Companies like Starbucks and Blue Bottle Coffee provide opportunities to learn and grow. The city's love for coffee makes it a great place to work.
    Find Barista jobs in Seattle, WA


  2. Visalia, CA
    Average Salary: $42,948
    In Visalia, baristas enjoy a friendly atmosphere. Local cafes like Peet's Coffee and local chains offer a welcoming environment. The city's laid-back vibe makes it easy to enjoy work and leisure.
    Find Barista jobs in Visalia, CA


  3. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $42,929
    Santa Maria has a growing coffee scene with many local cafes. Working here means you can enjoy beautiful weather and a close-knit community. Companies like Peet's Coffee and local favorites provide great opportunities.
    Find Barista jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  4. Salinas, CA
    Average Salary: $42,740
    Salinas offers a mix of local charm and coffee culture. Cafes like Starbucks and local spots provide a supportive environment. The city's agricultural roots add a unique touch to the community.
    Find Barista jobs in Salinas, CA


  5. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $42,082
    Modesto has a diverse coffee scene with many local and national chains. Working here means you can enjoy a variety of coffee experiences. Companies like Peet's Coffee and local cafes offer good opportunities.
    Find Barista jobs in Modesto, CA


  6. Bakersfield, CA
    Average Salary: $41,643
    Bakersfield offers a warm, welcoming environment for baristas. Local cafes and chains like Starbucks provide a supportive workplace. The city's growing culture makes it an exciting place to work.
    Find Barista jobs in Bakersfield, CA


  7. Stockton, CA
    Average Salary: $41,305
    Stockton has a friendly coffee culture with many local cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a supportive community. Companies like Peet's Coffee and local favorites offer good opportunities.
    Find Barista jobs in Stockton, CA


  8. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $41,222
    San Jose offers a dynamic coffee scene with many tech-driven cafes. Companies like Starbucks and local spots provide a vibrant environment. The city's tech influence adds a unique twist to the coffee culture.
    Find Barista jobs in San Jose, CA


  9. Vallejo, CA
    Average Salary: $41,178
    Vallejo has a charming coffee culture with many local cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a close-knit community. Companies like Peet's Coffee and local spots offer a supportive environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Vallejo, CA


  10. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $41,116
    San Francisco offers a rich coffee culture with many innovative cafes. Companies like Blue Bottle Coffee and local favorites provide a dynamic environment. The city's vibrant atmosphere makes it an exciting place to work.
    Find Barista jobs in San Francisco, CA

What are the best companies a Barista can work for?

Baristas at Mohegan Sun enjoy one of the highest salaries, averaging $71,686. This top-tier compensation reflects the company's commitment to quality and customer service. Apple also offers competitive pay, with baristas earning around $59,824 annually.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Barista jobs, highlighting Mohegan Sun with the highest at $71,686 and SpaceX with the lowest at $44,636.
  1. Mohegan Sun
    Average Salary: $71,686
    Mohegan Sun offers exciting Barista jobs with competitive salaries. This company operates in Connecticut and offers a vibrant atmosphere. Employees enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth.


  2. Apple
    Average Salary: $59,824
    Apple provides rewarding Barista positions with a strong focus on customer service. The company operates globally, with locations in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Apple values creativity and innovation in its team.


  3. FareStart
    Average Salary: $50,054
    FareStart offers Barista jobs with a focus on community service. This organization operates in the Seattle area, providing a supportive environment. Employees enjoy working with a mission-driven team.


  4. bigfoot java
    Average Salary: $46,459
    bigfoot java offers Barista positions with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. The company operates in the Pacific Northwest, with locations in Washington and Oregon. Employees enjoy a welcoming work environment.


  5. Hyatt Vacation Ownership
    Average Salary: $46,380
    Hyatt Vacation Ownership provides Barista jobs with a focus on hospitality. The company operates in various locations across the United States. Employees enjoy a dynamic and customer-focused work environment.


  6. University Of Washington
    Average Salary: $45,879
    The University Of Washington offers Barista positions with a focus on academic excellence. The university operates in Seattle, Washington. Employees enjoy a vibrant and intellectually stimulating work environment.


  7. UPMC
    Average Salary: $45,856
    UPMC offers Barista jobs with a focus on healthcare. The company operates in Pennsylvania and New York. Employees enjoy a supportive and mission-driven work environment.


  8. Big Shoulders Coffee
    Average Salary: $45,350
    Big Shoulders Coffee provides Barista positions with a focus on quality and community. The company operates in Chicago, Illinois. Employees enjoy a creative and collaborative work environment.


  9. Dartcor Food Services
    Average Salary: $44,667
    Dartcor Food Services offers Barista jobs with a focus on food service excellence. The company operates in various locations across the United States. Employees enjoy a dynamic and supportive work environment.


  10. SpaceX
    Average Salary: $44,636
    SpaceX provides Barista positions with a focus on innovation and exploration. The company operates in California and Texas. Employees enjoy a cutting-edge and mission-driven work environment.

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, perfecting latte art, and staying updated on the latest coffee trends. Another important factor is developing excellent customer service skills. Building rapport with customers can lead to repeat business and higher tips. Additionally, baristas can increase their income by taking on extra responsibilities, such as managing the shop during peak hours or training new staff members. Networking within the coffee community can also open up opportunities for higher-paying positions. Finally, some baristas choose to expand their offerings by selling merchandise, hosting events, or even creating their own coffee blends.

To maximize earnings, baristas should consider the following factors:

  • Mastering coffee preparation skills
  • Developing excellent customer service skills
  • Taking on extra responsibilities
  • Networking within the coffee community
  • Expanding offerings through merchandise, events, or custom blends

Currently 9,363 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.
Position
Overview
Barista
9,363 Job Openings