Baker Salary in Virginia Beach, VA
Bakers in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.71 per hour, which translates to about $588.40 per week, $2,549.73 per month, and $30,596.80 per year.
The demand for Bakers in Virginia Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the local baking industry.
How Much Does a Baker Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of a Baker in Virginia Beach varies based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.11 | $484.40 | $2,096.27 | $25,156.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.71 | $588.40 | $2,549.73 | $30,596.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.86 | $714.40 | $3,082.13 | $37,108.80 |
Do Bakers in Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Bakers generally do not earn tips as their work is primarily behind the scenes. Their income typically consists of wages or salary rather than gratuities.
Baker Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Bakers earn an average of about $14.71 per hour and approximately $30,596.80 annually. Bakers in Virginia Beach earn roughly the same average wage as the national average. This indicates that the local market aligns closely with nationwide compensation trends for Bakers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Bakers
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Bakers in comparison to Virginia Beach:
- Chesapeake: $15.39 per hour
- Williamsburg: $15.54 per hour
These areas may present opportunities for Bakers seeking higher pay within commuting distance.
What Influences a Baker’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Experience and Skill Level: Bakers with extensive experience, specialized baking techniques, or niche skills like pastry or artisan bread tend to earn more.
Type of Establishment: Working in high-end bakeries, hotels, or specialty shops often results in better pay compared to grocery stores or casual dining settings.
Certifications and Education: Credentials such as baking or culinary certifications can improve earning potential.
Shift Timing and Hours: Early morning or night shifts, which are common in baking, sometimes include shift differentials.
Local Labor Market and Cost of Living: Virginia Beach’s economic conditions influence wages, keeping them comparable to the national average but slightly lower than some nearby areas.
How To Become a Baker in Virginia Beach
Starting a career as a Baker in Virginia Beach involves several steps to build skills and credentials.
- Complete Culinary or Baking Programs: Programs like those at the Culinary Institute of Virginia or Tidewater Community College offer comprehensive baking and pastry arts training focused on hands-on skills.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure food safety knowledge, while the Certified Journey Baker (CJB) credential from the Retail Bakers of America validates professional baking expertise.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships provide practical industry experience necessary to advance.
- Continuously Develop Skills: Keeping up with baking trends and refining techniques improves job prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Bakers in Virginia Beach
Prominent employers seeking Bakers in Virginia Beach include:
- Virginia Beach City Public Schools
- Panera Bread
- The Historic Cavalier Hotel
Establishments That Bakers in Virginia Beach Work At
Bakers in Virginia Beach typically work in a variety of settings, each offering different earning opportunities.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments employ bakers for fresh baked goods but often pay moderate wages due to high competition.
- Specialty and Artisan Bakeries: Such venues usually offer higher salaries due to the skill level and craft required.
- Hotels and Resorts: Large hospitality venues may pay above average and offer benefits and advancement.
- Schools and Institutional Cafeterias: These settings focus on scale and consistency, sometimes resulting in steadier but moderate pay.
The type and prestige of the employer can significantly affect a Baker’s salary in the area.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Bakers
If you're interested in related career paths, here are some jobs similar to Baker that might appeal to you:
These include Pastry Chef, Pastry Cook, and Chef positions, involving culinary skills closely related to baking and offering distinct opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bakers in Virginia Beach
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Bakers ensuring compliance and fair treatment. For information please consult the following resources:
- Virginia’s state labor laws and employment regulations can be found on the Virginia government website.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.