Barista Salary in San Diego, CA

Updated on Mar 08, 2025
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How much does a Barista make in San Diego, CA?

The average salary for a Barista is $37,814 per year in San Diego, CA.

In San Diego, CA, a barista can expect to make an average yearly salary of around $37,814. The salary range varies based on experience and the specific café or coffee shop. Entry-level positions start at about $32,600, which offers a solid start for those new to the job. As baristas gain more experience and refine their skills, they can earn up to $44,000 annually.


This pay scale reflects a blend of factors like tips and customer service skills, which play a crucial role in a barista's overall earnings. Many positions in this field also provide flexible hours, which can be appealing to job seekers looking for work-life balance or those pursuing other interests. With a friendly environment and the chance to connect with customers daily, being a barista in San Diego can be both rewarding and financially stable.

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What are the highest paying cities for Barista near San Diego, CA?

Baristas can find lucrative opportunities in cities near San Diego, with San Ysidro leading the way with an average salary of $41,256. Close behind are Poway and Santee, offering average salaries of $41,012 and $40,625, respectively. These locations provide a promising environment for baristas looking to enhance their earning potential.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Barista jobs near San Diego, CA, highlighting San Ysidro, CA with the highest at $41,256 and Chula Vista, CA with the lowest at $38,829.
  1. San Ysidro, CA
    Average Salary: $41,256
    Working as a coffee specialist in San Ysidro offers a fast-paced environment, especially near the border. Shops like Starbucks and local cafes serve both travelers and locals, making every day unique.
    Find Barista jobs in San Ysidro, CA


  2. Poway, CA
    Average Salary: $41,012
    In Poway, you will find friendly neighborhoods and a strong community spirit. Local coffee shops welcome residents and visitors, creating a cozy atmosphere where you can connect while serving freshly brewed beverages.
    Find Barista jobs in Poway, CA


  3. Santee, CA
    Average Salary: $40,625
    Santee's vibrant community provides an excellent backdrop for a coffee role. You will enjoy the busy shopping areas and parks, where chains like Starbucks and local cafes attract a diverse clientele.
    Find Barista jobs in Santee, CA


  4. La Mesa, CA
    Average Salary: $40,388
    La Mesa boasts a charming downtown with many coffee shops. You will experience a relaxed pace and friendly customers who appreciate artisanal drinks from places like the local coffee roastery.
    Find Barista jobs in La Mesa, CA


  5. El Cajon, CA
    Average Salary: $40,243
    El Cajon presents a diverse setting for coffee professionals. You will engage with people from all walks of life at popular spots like Coffee Crush, creating lasting connections while serving quality beverages.
    Find Barista jobs in El Cajon, CA


  6. Solana Beach, CA
    Average Salary: $40,112
    Solana Beach is a coastal gem with a laid-back vibe. Working at a beachfront café allows you to serve refreshing drinks to beachgoers, creating a fun atmosphere that blends work and leisure.
    Find Barista jobs in Solana Beach, CA


  7. Spring Valley, CA
    Average Salary: $40,015
    In Spring Valley, you will find a friendly community eager for a caffeine fix. Local coffee shops thrive here, providing a welcoming space for customers to enjoy their favorite brews.
    Find Barista jobs in Spring Valley, CA


  8. Lemon Grove, CA
    Average Salary: $39,890
    Lemon Grove offers a small-town feel with great opportunities in coffee service. Working at a local café lets you meet regulars and introduce new flavors in a supportive environment.
    Find Barista jobs in Lemon Grove, CA


  9. Bonita, CA
    Average Salary: $39,736
    Bonita's peaceful surroundings attract coffee lovers who enjoy a moment of calm. Working at a neighborhood café enriches your experience with delightful customers and a welcoming atmosphere.
    Find Barista jobs in Bonita, CA


  10. Chula Vista, CA
    Average Salary: $38,829
    Chula Vista features a bustling coffee scene with plenty of opportunities for growth. You will serve residents and visitors at popular spots, contributing to the lively culture of this vibrant city.
    Find Barista jobs in Chula Vista, CA

What are the best paying companies for Barista in San Diego, CA?

For barista jobs in San Diego, several companies offer competitive salaries. Lofty Coffee Co and Mission Yogurt, Inc. stand out with average salaries around $43,300 and $43,000, respectively. Other notable employers include Hyatt and Marriott International, providing solid earnings as well, with average salaries in the mid-$41,000 range.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Barista jobs in San Diego, CA, highlighting Lofty Coffee Co with the highest at $43,300 and HAZEL with the lowest at $39,667.
  1. Lofty Coffee Co
    Average Salary: $43,300
    Lofty Coffee Co values quality and community. Baristas here enjoy creating a welcoming atmosphere for customers across their San Diego locations. They focus on specialty coffee, ensuring each drink meets high standards of craftsmanship.


  2. Mission Yogurt, Inc.
    Average Salary: $43,000
    At Mission Yogurt, Inc., baristas play a key role in enhancing the guest experience. They work in vibrant airport locations, serving travelers great coffee and light bites. The company emphasizes friendliness and speed of service.


  3. Hyatt
    Average Salary: $42,678
    Hyatt offers an exciting environment for baristas. Working in hotels, baristas serve guests unique beverages to complement their dining experience. This role supports a sophisticated atmosphere while working in downtown San Diego.


  4. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $41,694
    Baristas at Marriott International enjoy serving guests in a fast-paced hotel setting. They have opportunities to interact with a diverse clientele while preparing high-quality beverages at various San Diego locations.


  5. Local Krave
    Average Salary: $41,480
    Local Krave focuses on fresh, organic ingredients. Baristas here appreciate a creative work environment, crafting delicious coffee drinks. They proudly serve the local community in their San Diego locations.


  6. Starbucks
    Average Salary: $41,433
    Starbucks provides a popular platform for baristas to grow their skills. Working in different neighborhoods in San Diego, baristas create personalized coffee experiences while being part of a supportive team.


  7. Target
    Average Salary: $40,000
    Target’s coffee shops offer a fast-paced setting for baristas. They contribute to creating a friendly shopping environment by serving quality drinks. Their locations are conveniently situated throughout San Diego.


  8. Nordstrom
    Average Salary: $39,844
    Baristas at Nordstrom provide exceptional service within the retail environment. They craft stylish coffee beverages for shoppers, ensuring a delightful break in the shopping experience at various San Diego stores.


  9. Eurest
    Average Salary: $39,745
    Eurest specializes in corporate dining, allowing baristas to work in office settings. They create a pleasant atmosphere for employees enjoying their coffee breaks in San Diego’s business districts.


  10. HAZEL
    Average Salary: $39,667
    HAZEL offers a modern coffee shop experience. Baristas enjoy a trendy work atmosphere, preparing artisanal beverages and engaging with customers at their popular San Diego locations.

There are 7,829 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.
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