Barista Salaries

Many people find joy in working as a barista. The average yearly salary for a barista stands at about $33,511. However, earnings can vary widely based on experience and location.

Salaries typically start around $22,000 for entry-level positions. With more experience, baristas can earn up to $44,000. Most baristas find themselves making between $28,000 and $36,000, which is a common range for those who have been in the job for a while.

As you gain skills and establish your career, opportunities may arise to increase your income further. This role not only offers a competitive salary but also allows for creative expression and interaction with customers, making it a fulfilling choice for many.

1. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $41,405
   Working in Seattle offers a vibrant coffee culture, making it an exciting place for coffee lovers. Companies like Starbucks and local favorites such as Portland Coffee Roasters create a fast-paced environment where creativity thrives.
   Find Barista jobs in Seattle, WA
   




2. Salinas, CA
   Average Salary: $40,979
   In Salinas, coffee shops play a vital role in the community. Baristas here enjoy a warm atmosphere and often get to know their regular customers, making it a rewarding experience.
   Find Barista jobs in Salinas, CA
   




3. Visalia, CA
   Average Salary: $40,550
   Visalia's coffee scene is growing, with several cozy cafes that attract locals. Working at places like Coffee Connection allows baristas to connect with the community and create personalized drinks.
   Find Barista jobs in Visalia, CA
   




4. Santa Maria, CA
   Average Salary: $40,481
   Santa Maria is known for its friendly neighborhoods and local cafés. Baristas in this city can enjoy crafting drinks in a relaxed setting, often getting to interact with loyal customers.
   Find Barista jobs in Santa Maria, CA
   




5. Modesto, CA
   Average Salary: $40,069
   Modesto offers a blend of classic and modern coffee shops. Working in this city lets baristas hone their skills in a variety of settings, from artisanal cafés to busy chains.
   Find Barista jobs in Modesto, CA
   




6. San Jose, CA
   Average Salary: $40,064
   As a major tech hub, San Jose boasts a dynamic coffee scene. Baristas here often find themselves in busy shops that service a diverse clientele, providing ample opportunities for creating unique drinks.
   Find Barista jobs in San Jose, CA
   




7. Bakersfield, CA
   Average Salary: $39,855
   Bakersfield features numerous local coffee shops where baristas can thrive. Employees enjoy friendly interactions and often participate in community events, making work fulfilling.
   Find Barista jobs in Bakersfield, CA
   




8. Stockton, CA
   Average Salary: $39,474
   In Stockton, coffee shops are popular gathering spots. Baristas create lasting connections with customers, fostering a sense of community while serving quality coffee.
   Find Barista jobs in Stockton, CA
   




9. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $39,376
   San Francisco is famous for its innovative coffee culture. Working at renowned places like Blue Bottle Coffee allows baristas to experiment with brewing techniques and craft exceptional beverages.
   Find Barista jobs in San Francisco, CA
   




10. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $39,200
    Santa Rosa provides a laid-back environment where coffee is cherished. Baristas work in charming cafés that focus on quality and sustainability, connecting with locals over great drinks.
    Find Barista jobs in Santa Rosa, CA
    

1. Ovation Coffee & Tea
   Average Salary: $52,000
   Ovation Coffee & Tea provides a dynamic environment for baristas who enjoy crafting unique beverages. With locations across the United States, employees benefit from training and a culture centered around quality.
   




2. EMERALD CITY SMOOTHIE
   Average Salary: $50,525
   Emerald City Smoothie offers baristas a chance to work in a fun and health-focused atmosphere. With shops in various states, baristas learn to blend delicious smoothie recipes while engaging with customers.
   




3. Mohegan Sun
   Average Salary: $48,399
   At Mohegan Sun, baristas work in a vibrant and fast-paced environment. Located in Connecticut, this entertainment destination provides strong benefits and opportunities for growth.
   




4. FareStart
   Average Salary: $47,463
   FareStart focuses on social impact, providing training to baristas in Seattle. Employees craft quality coffee while helping those in need, creating a meaningful work experience.
   




5. Hyatt Vacation Ownership
   Average Salary: $47,275
   Hyatt Vacation Ownership employs baristas in luxurious resort settings. Locations vary, but employees enjoy a positive work culture and guest-focused service.
   




6. Forge Baking Company
   Average Salary: $47,000
   At Forge Baking Company, baristas combine coffee with baked goods in a cozy atmosphere. Located in various cities, the company emphasizes quality and community.
   




7. Watermark Retirement Communities
   Average Salary: $46,091
   Watermark Retirement Communities offers baristas the chance to serve residents in a warm and welcoming setting. Locations are primarily in the U.S., providing a unique experience in senior living.
   




8. Big Shoulders Coffee
   Average Salary: $45,500
   Big Shoulders Coffee specializes in quality coffee sourced from around the globe. Based in Chicago, baristas focus on crafting exceptional beverages while enjoying a supportive work culture.
   




9. University Of Washington
   Average Salary: $45,337
   The University of Washington employs baristas in a bustling campus environment. With multiple cafes, baristas engage with a diverse community and enhance the university experience.
   




10. BREVILLE
    Average Salary: $44,500
    Breville focuses on high-quality kitchen appliances and offers baristas the opportunity to showcase their craft. Employees work in a collaborative environment, sharing their passion for coffee.
    

• Enhance Your Skills: Take coffee-making classes to learn advanced techniques. Becoming skilled in espresso extraction, latte art, and brewing methods makes you a valuable employee.
• Expand Your Knowledge: Learn about coffee origins, roasting methods, and flavor profiles. Customers appreciate knowledgeable baristas and may tip more for great service.
• Provide Excellent Customer Service: Build rapport with regular customers. A friendly and attentive demeanor can lead to higher tips and repeat business.
• Work During Peak Hours: Seek shifts during busy times when tips are likely higher. For example, weekend mornings often bring in more coffee lovers.
• Pursue Promotions: Look for ways to advance within the company. Many coffee shops offer roles like shift supervisor or manager, which come with higher pay.