How much does a Barista make?
Baristas often enjoy a fulfilling career in the coffee industry. They make a variety of coffee drinks and interact with customers daily. The average yearly salary for a Barista is around $34,162. This salary can vary based on experience and location.
Baristas can earn different amounts depending on where they work. Some earn less, while others earn more. The salary range for Baristas goes from $22,000 to $45,000 per year. Most Baristas fall in the middle of this range. Factors like the type of coffee shop, city, and customer traffic can affect their pay.
What are the highest paying cities for a Barista?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $43,287
Seattle offers a vibrant coffee culture with many cafes seeking skilled baristas. Companies like Starbucks and Seattle's Best Coffee provide excellent opportunities. The city's love for coffee makes it a great place to work.
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Visalia, CA
Average Salary: $42,948
Visalia has a growing coffee scene with many local cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while serving coffee to the community. Local businesses often value skilled baristas.
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Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $42,938
Santa Maria offers a laid-back environment with many family-owned cafes. Working as a barista here means you can connect with the community. The local coffee culture is warm and welcoming.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $42,751
Salinas has a diverse coffee scene with both local and chain cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a mix of environments. The city's growing population offers many opportunities for baristas.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $42,102
Modesto has a friendly coffee culture with many local cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a close-knit community. The city's growing economy offers many opportunities for baristas.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $41,682
Bakersfield offers a warm and welcoming coffee culture. Many local cafes value skilled baristas. Working here means you can enjoy a laid-back environment while serving coffee to the community.
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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $41,380
Stockton has a vibrant coffee scene with many local cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a diverse environment. The city's growing population offers many opportunities for baristas.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $41,284
San Jose offers a dynamic coffee culture with many tech-driven cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a fast-paced environment. The city's tech industry offers many opportunities for baristas.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $41,206
San Francisco has a rich coffee scene with many innovative cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a creative environment. The city's diverse population offers many opportunities for baristas.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $41,178
Vallejo offers a vibrant coffee culture with many local cafes. Working here means you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere. The city's growing economy offers many opportunities for baristas.
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What are the best companies a Barista can work for?

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Mohegan Sun
Average Salary: $74,758
Mohegan Sun offers exciting Barista jobs in its casino and resort. Located in Connecticut, it provides a vibrant atmosphere. Employees enjoy a dynamic work environment with opportunities for growth.
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Apple
Average Salary: $59,824
Apple provides Barista positions in its retail stores. These jobs are located across various states in the U.S. Apple offers a modern and innovative environment with a focus on customer service.
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bigfoot java
Average Salary: $46,490
bigfoot java is a coffee shop chain with Barista jobs in multiple locations. It offers a cozy and friendly work environment. Employees enjoy a supportive team and a passion for coffee.
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University Of Washington
Average Salary: $46,039
The University Of Washington offers Barista jobs in its campus cafes. It provides a diverse and educational environment. Employees work in a prestigious institution with a focus on student satisfaction.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $45,746
UPMC offers Barista positions in its healthcare facilities. Located in Pennsylvania, it provides a caring and professional environment. Employees enjoy a supportive workplace with a focus on health and wellness.
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Hyatt Vacation Ownership
Average Salary: $45,475
Hyatt Vacation Ownership offers Barista jobs in its resorts. Located in various locations, it provides a luxurious and welcoming environment. Employees enjoy a vibrant and dynamic workplace.
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Big Shoulders Coffee
Average Salary: $45,350
Big Shoulders Coffee offers Barista positions in its coffee shops. Located in Chicago, it provides a trendy and creative environment. Employees enjoy a supportive team and a passion for coffee.
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Dartcor Food Services
Average Salary: $44,909
Dartcor Food Services offers Barista jobs in its catering and food service locations. It provides a professional and diverse environment. Employees enjoy a supportive team and a variety of work experiences.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $44,781
Advocate Aurora Health offers Barista positions in its healthcare facilities. Located in Illinois, it provides a caring and professional environment. Employees enjoy a supportive workplace with a focus on health and wellness.
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Fooda
Average Salary: $44,123
Fooda offers Barista jobs in its cafes and restaurants. Located in various locations, it provides a vibrant and dynamic environment. Employees enjoy a supportive team and a passion for food and coffee.
How to earn more as a Barista?
Becoming a top barista can lead to more than just great coffee. It can lead to higher earnings. Baristas who excel in their craft often find themselves earning more. This is because they bring a lot to the table. They know how to make drinks quickly and perfectly. They also know how to connect with customers. This makes them valuable to any coffee shop. Here are some ways to increase earnings as a barista.
First, mastering a wide range of coffee drinks can help. Knowing how to make everything from espressos to latte art makes a barista more versatile. This skill can lead to higher tips and more sales. Second, developing strong customer service skills is key. Friendly and efficient service can turn regular customers into loyal ones. This can lead to repeat business and higher tips. Third, learning about coffee beans and brewing techniques can set a barista apart. This knowledge can lead to better drinks and more customer satisfaction. Fourth, taking on extra responsibilities can lead to higher pay. This might include managing the shop or training new staff. Finally, staying up to date with industry trends can help. This includes new brewing methods and popular drinks. Being knowledgeable can attract more customers and lead to higher earnings.
A barista who focuses on these areas can see a significant increase in earnings. Each of these factors plays a role in creating a better experience for customers. This leads to higher tips and more sales. By mastering these skills, a barista can earn more and enjoy a rewarding career.
- Mastering a wide range of coffee drinks
- Developing strong customer service skills
- Learning about coffee beans and brewing techniques
- Taking on extra responsibilities
- Staying up to date with industry trends



