Baker Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Bakers in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $16.54 per hour, which translates to about $661.60 per week, $2,866.93 per month, and $34,403.20 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Santa Fe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for baked goods and specialty pastry products in the region.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Baker in Santa Fe can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.46 | $538.40 | $2,333.87 | $28,006.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.54 | $661.60 | $2,866.93 | $34,403.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.00 | $840.00 | $3,640.00 | $43,680.00 |
Do Bakers in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips since their work typically happens behind the scenes and not directly interacting with customers. Their earnings are usually based solely on their salary or wages.
Baker Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of around $16.89 per hour, translating to about $35,131.20 per year.
When compared to the national average, Bakers in Santa Fe earn slightly less, at about $16.54 per hour and $34,403.20 annually.
This small difference can be attributed to regional variations in the cost of living and local demand for baking skills.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Bakers
When looking at nearby areas, Baker salaries vary slightly:
- Historic Eastside: $18.00 per hour
- Downtown Santa Fe: $17.50 per hour
Bakers working in Historic Eastside might find slightly better pay compared to those in Downtown Santa Fe, reflecting localized economic factors.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Baker in Santa Fe:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with advanced skills, such as pastry or artisan bread making, and those with more years in the trade tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale bakeries or specialty shops may offer better pay than chain supermarkets or fast casual establishments.
- Certifications and Education: Holding culinary or baking certifications can boost salary potential.
- Shift and Work Hours: Evening or early morning shifts might come with shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Cost of Living: Santa Fe's unique market and cost of living influence wage levels accordingly.
How To Become a Baker in Santa Fe
Starting a career as a Baker in Santa Fe can be enhanced by taking several concrete steps:
- Complete Formal Training: Consider enrolling in programs like the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive training in baking and pastry arts, preparing students for professional baking careers.
- Participate in Workshops: Local resources such as the Los Alamos Cooperative Extension Service offer workshops and courses in baking techniques and food safety, beneficial for aspiring Bakers.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the American Culinary Federation (ACF) Certified Pastry Culinarian demonstrate professionalism and improve employability.
- Gain Experience: Working in local bakeries or related food service roles helps build practical skills and industry connections.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Santa Fe
Santa Fe’s baking scene features several notable employers seeking skilled Bakers:
- Clafoutis
- Dovetail Restaurant
- Tesuque Village Market
Establishments That Bakers in Santa Fe Work At
Bakers in Santa Fe typically find employment across a variety of establishments, including:
- Artisan and Specialty Bakeries: These establishments often offer higher wages due to the craftsmanship and quality expected.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Salaries here may be moderate, reflecting the scale and speed of operations.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: These venues may offer consistent hours but generally pay less than specialty shops.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations can pay more and offer benefits, appealing to experienced Bakers.
The type of establishment significantly influences earning potential, with specialty bakeries typically providing the highest salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Bakers
If you’re interested in careers similar to baking, here are a few related roles you might consider:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions, which involve related culinary skills and often command different ranges of salaries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Santa Fe
Bakers should be aware of New Mexico state labor laws and tax obligations to manage their work conditions and finances effectively.
- On the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions website you can find information on state labor laws and employment resources.
- For federal tax laws and regulations, visit the Internal Revenue Service.
- Local regulations and business resources can be found at the City of Santa Fe Official Website.
