Baker Salary in San Francisco, CA
Bakers in San Francisco, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $22.66 per hour, which translates to about $906.40 per week, $3,927.73 per month, and $47,132.80 per year.
The job market for Bakers in San Francisco is showing positive growth of around 5%, indicating a steadily increasing demand for skilled baking professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in San Francisco?
The salary of a Baker in San Francisco varies based on experience, skill, and employer type. Here is a breakdown of Baker salaries at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.18 | $767.20 | $3,320.53 | $39,846.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.66 | $906.40 | $3,927.73 | $47,132.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.22 | $1,088.80 | $4,493.33 | $53,302.40 |
Do Bakers in San Francisco Earn Tips?
Bakers typically do not earn tips as their work is mostly behind the scenes in kitchens and baking facilities with limited direct customer interaction.
Baker Salary in San Francisco vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Bakers is approximately $16.80 per hour, translating to about $34,944 per year.
Bakers in San Francisco earn significantly more on average, with wages around $22.66 per hour and an annual salary near $47,132.80, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Francisco for Bakers
Nearby locations with competitive Baker salaries include:
- Bakersfield: $25.72 per hour
- San Jose: $21.72 per hour
Bakers in Bakersfield stand to earn significantly more than those in San Jose or San Francisco, presenting options for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in San Francisco?
Several factors influence how much a Baker earns in San Francisco:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Bakers with specialized baking skills or artisan techniques tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Bakeries specializing in gourmet or specialty baked goods often pay more compared to chain supermarkets or casual eateries.
- Education and Certifications: Credentials like pastry arts programs or the Certified Baker (CB) certification can increase earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Early morning or late night shifts may receive shift differentials that boost compensation.
- Local Economic Factors: San Francisco's high cost of living raises salaries generally across the board.
How To Become a Baker in San Francisco
Launching a career as a Baker in San Francisco involves several key steps:
- Complete formal training: Schools such as the San Francisco Cooking School provide Professional Pastry & Baking Arts programs focusing on hands-on training.
- Earn baking certificates: The City College of San Francisco offers a Baking and Pastry Certificate program teaching fundamental techniques.
- Obtain food safety certifications: Qualifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers.
- Pursue advanced credentials: The Certified Baker (CB) offered by the Retail Bakers of America is highly regarded in the industry.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in San Francisco
Various employers in San Francisco seek skilled Bakers, including:
- Whole Foods Market
- Nothing Bundt Cakes
- Kahnfections
- Craftsman and Wolves
Establishments That Bakers in San Francisco Work At
Bakers in San Francisco find employment in a wide range of establishments, such as:
- Artisan Bakeries: Often provide higher salaries for specialized baking skills.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer moderate pay with fast-paced environments.
- Grocery Stores and Supermarkets: Employ bakers for large volume production with steady but moderate wages.
- Hotels and Catering Companies: Tend to offer more stability and occasionally higher compensation due to volume and client base.
The type of workplace often influences the overall compensation, benefits, and career growth opportunities available.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Francisco for Bakers
If you're interested in related careers, consider roles similar to Bakers listed below.
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions, which share overlapping culinary skills with Bakers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in San Francisco
Bakers should be well informed about federal, state, and local labor laws to protect their rights and understand tax obligations.
- Visit the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) for national labor statistics and occupational guidelines.
- The California Employment Development Department (edd.ca.gov) offers detailed information on state employment and labor regulations.
- San Francisco’s official site, sfgov.org, provides local labor law resources important for Bakers.
