Barista Salaries

Working as a barista can be a fulfilling job, especially for those who enjoy coffee and customer service. The average yearly salary for a barista is around $33,626. However, actual salaries can vary based on experience and location.

For entry-level positions, baristas may earn around $22,000 to $24,000 per year. As they gain more skills and experience, their salaries can increase significantly. Many baristas can earn between $26,000 and $30,000 annually.

Experienced baristas, particularly those in busy urban areas or specialty coffee shops, can see their earnings reach $36,000 to $40,000 per year. In some cases, top earners in the field can make approximately $42,000 to $44,000 annually.

The barista role also offers tips, which can provide an additional income boost. With dedication and a passion for coffee, baristas can find a rewarding career both personally and financially.

1. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $41,616
   Working as a coffee specialist in Seattle means being part of a city known for its love of coffee. You'll find many small cafes and large chains like Starbucks, where you can hone your skills and share your passion for brewing.
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2. Salinas, CA
   Average Salary: $41,207
   In Salinas, a vibrant community known for its agriculture, you'll meet friendly locals who appreciate a good cup of coffee. Local cafes offer a cozy atmosphere and an opportunity to connect with customers while serving up their favorite drinks.
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3. Visalia, CA
   Average Salary: $40,881
   Visalia boasts a growing coffee culture with various shops. Working in this city allows you to engage with the community and gain experience in preparing drinks that keep guests coming back.
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4. Santa Maria, CA
   Average Salary: $40,799
   Santa Maria’s coffee shops offer a relaxed environment where you can develop your barista skills. This city values friendly service, making it easy to create connections with both regulars and new faces.
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5. Modesto, CA
   Average Salary: $40,336
   Modesto provides a friendly setting to work as a coffee expert. With several local cafés, you'll find opportunities to create a warm atmosphere while serving community members their daily brews.
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6. Bakersfield, CA
   Average Salary: $40,305
   In Bakersfield, coffee shops are essential gathering spots. Here, you'll get to delight customers with expertly crafted drinks while enjoying a collaborative work environment among fellow coffee lovers.
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7. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $40,196
   As a coffee specialist in San Jose, you will work in a bustling city known for its tech scene. The café culture is thriving, and connecting with a diverse customer base offers exciting interactions every day.
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8. Stockton, CA
   Average Salary: $39,896
   Stockton blends a rich history with a growing coffee scene. Working in this city allows you to build relationships with customers who appreciate your craft while enjoying a dynamic and community-focused work environment.
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9. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $39,575
   San Francisco is a leader in specialty coffee, presenting numerous opportunities to innovate and learn. Working in this iconic city means being part of a diverse community that values high-quality brews and unique coffee experiences.
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10. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $39,566
    In Santa Rosa, coffee shops often reflect the local culture and community spirit. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere where your skills can shine, allowing you to serve delicious drinks to appreciative customers.
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1. Mohegan Sun
   Average Salary: $55,470
   Mohegan Sun offers barista jobs within a vibrant and bustling environment. Located in Uncasville, Connecticut, this resort and casino provide employees with opportunities for growth and excellent benefits, making it a sought-after workplace.
   




2. Ovation Coffee & Tea
   Average Salary: $52,000
   At Ovation Coffee & Tea, baristas enjoy a creative atmosphere focused on quality beverages. The company operates in various locations, prioritizing employee development and a strong community connection.
   




3. EMERALD CITY SMOOTHIE
   Average Salary: $50,447
   Emerald City Smoothie highlights healthy living and quality products. Their baristas work in a supportive setting in Washington State, creating personalized customer experiences with smoothies and coffee.
   




4. Hyatt Vacation Ownership
   Average Salary: $47,275
   Hyatt Vacation Ownership offers barista positions in a welcoming hotel environment. With locations across the United States, Hyatt provides competitive salaries and a focus on employee satisfaction.
   




5. Watermark Retirement Communities
   Average Salary: $46,087
   Watermark Retirement Communities values quality service in its cafes. Baristas in this organization work in various retirement communities, focusing on friendly interactions and creating a warm environment for residents and their families.
   




6. Big Shoulders Coffee
   Average Salary: $45,571
   Big Shoulders Coffee is known for its dedication to high-quality brews. Baristas here work in Chicago, Illinois, where they receive training and support to enhance their coffee-making skills.
   




7. University Of Washington
   Average Salary: $45,510
   The University of Washington employs baristas in a dynamic campus environment. With multiple locations, they serve students and faculty, making it an exciting place to work and connect with the university community.
   




8. UPMC
   Average Salary: $45,103
   UPMC provides barista positions within their wellness-focused facilities. Located in Pennsylvania, employees serve staff and visitors in a health-centered environment, emphasizing quality customer service.
   




9. BREVILLE
   Average Salary: $44,500
   Breville offers barista jobs that focus on crafting quality coffee experiences. Their locations emphasize innovation and customer engagement, giving employees the chance to work with state-of-the-art equipment.
   




10. Caffè Nero
    Average Salary: $43,750
    Caffè Nero creates a European-style café experience. Baristas work in a friendly atmosphere across various locations, focusing on coffee craftsmanship and building relationships with customers.
    

As a Barista, you have many ways to increase your earnings. Here are five factors that can help you earn more in this role:

1. Develop Your Skills: Learn about different coffee brewing methods and latte art. The more skilled you are, the more valuable you become to your employer and customers.
2. Provide Great Customer Service: Build rapport with customers. Friendly service often leads to tips, repeat visits, and positive word-of-mouth.
3. Work at Busy Locations: Seek employment at high-traffic coffee shops. Busy places tend to have larger volumes of sales, which can lead to higher tips.
4. Ask for More Responsibilities: Take on extra duties, like managing inventory or training new staff. This shows initiative and may lead to promotions or pay raises.
5. Stay Updated on Trends: Keep up with the latest coffee trends. Being knowledgeable about new products can help you stand out and attract more customers.