Baker Salary in Buffalo, NY
Bakers in Buffalo, NY, in 2025, make about $18.65 per hour, which comes to roughly $746.00 per week, $3,232.67 per month, and $38,792.00 per year.
Job prospects for Bakers in Buffalo are looking up with estimated growth around 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand for skilled bakers in the area.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Buffalo, NY?
The income of a Baker in Buffalo varies based on experience and place of employment. Here’s a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.65 | $746.00 | $3,232.67 | $38,792.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.72 | $868.80 | $3,754.40 | $45,120.00 |
Do Bakers in Buffalo, NY Earn Tips?
Bakers typically do not earn tips since their duties are usually behind the scenes and don’t involve direct customer interaction. Their earnings primarily come from wages or salaries rather than tips.
Baker Salary in Buffalo, NY vs. National Average
Across the United States, Bakers earn an average hourly wage of about $16.80, resulting in a yearly salary close to $34,944.
In comparison, Bakers in Buffalo make around $18.65 per hour or $38,792 annually, which is noticeably higher than the national average and reflects local demand and wage scales.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buffalo for Bakers
Nearby neighborhoods in Buffalo offer varying pay rates for Bakers:
- Downtown Buffalo: $19.50 per hour
- Elmwood Village: $20.00 per hour
Those willing to work in Elmwood Village or Downtown Buffalo can expect better compensation compared to other parts of the city.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Buffalo, NY?
Several factors can influence how much a Baker earns in Buffalo, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with specialized skills like pastry arts or artisan bread making and those with more experience typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bakeries, specialty shops, or gourmet food stores often pay more than general grocery stores or fast casual bakeries.
- Certifications and Education: Holding baking certifications can enhance a Baker’s earning potential and job opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Bakers working night or early morning shifts might get higher pay due to less desirable hours.
- Local Economy and Demand: Buffalo’s growing culinary scene impacts wage levels and job availability.
How To Become a Baker in Buffalo, NY
To pursue a career as a Baker in Buffalo, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in a Culinary Program: Programs like the Erie Community College Culinary Arts Program offer thorough training in baking and pastry arts, preparing individuals for professional bakery careers.
- Specialized Courses: Niagara Falls Culinary Institute provides focused courses in baking and pastry with practical experience in modern facilities.
- Get Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often mandatory and ensures knowledge of food safety practices.
- Earn Professional Baking Certification: Consider the Certified Journey Baker (CJB) credential offered by Retail Bakers of America, which validates baking expertise.
- Gain Experience: Starting as an apprentice or assistant baker can help develop necessary skills on the job.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Buffalo, NY
Several prominent employers actively seek Bakers in Buffalo, including:
- Wegmans Food Markets
- Tops Friendly Markets
- Panera Bread
Establishments That Bakers in Buffalo, NY Work At
Bakers in Buffalo typically find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer steady work, though pay may be moderate compared to specialty shops.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Chains: Large stores like Wegmans or Tops employ bakers for volume production usually with reliable hours and benefits.
- Specialty and Artisan Bakeries: These often pay higher wages due to the craftsmanship involved.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Bakers here may earn more, especially in upscale settings with a focus on quality and presentation.
The type of establishment affects the salary considerably, with specialty bakeries generally offering the highest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buffalo, NY for Bakers
For those interested in careers similar to Baking, here are a few related roles in the hospitality industry:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef, all of which involve related culinary skills and different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Buffalo, NY
Bakers in Buffalo should be familiar with both federal and state labor laws affecting their work conditions and taxes.
- For federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Details on New York State labor laws and employment services can be found on the New York State Department of Labor website.