Barista Salary in Albany, NY
Baristas in Albany, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $17.15 per hour, which translates to about $686.00 per week, $2,972.67 per month, and $35,672.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Albany is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in coffee shops and beverage service establishments throughout the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Albany, NY?
The salary of a Barista in Albany, NY, varies with experience and skills. Here’s an overview of earnings for different experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.23 | $569.20 | $2,462.93 | $30,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.15 | $686.00 | $2,972.67 | $35,672.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.67 | $826.80 | $3,555.20 | $42,945.60 |
Do Baristas in Albany, NY Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Albany often earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can significantly supplement income, with many Baristas earning an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips during busy shifts, enhancing their take-home pay substantially.
Barista Salary in Albany, NY vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an hourly average salary of about $15.15, translating to around $31,512 per year.
Comparatively, Baristas in Albany earn slightly more with an average hourly wage of $17.15 and an annual income of $35,672. This increase reflects local economic conditions and demand for skilled beverage service professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albany for Baristas
Nearby neighborhoods offer varied pay rates for Baristas:
- Downtown Albany: $17.50 per hour
- University Heights: $17.00 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Albany generally enjoy the highest pay rates due to increased foot traffic and premium coffee shop demand.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Albany, NY?
Several factors affect the earning potential of a Barista in Albany:
- Experience and Skill Level: Seasoned Baristas with expertise in espresso preparation and latte art command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes generally offers better pay than fast-food or chain coffee outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Completing recognized barista courses and certifications can boost salary prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might include shift differentials impacting earnings.
- Location and Foot Traffic: Positions in busy urban centers like Downtown Albany tend to pay more due to customer volume.
How To Become a Barista in Albany, NY
Starting a career as a Barista in Albany involves building relevant skills and qualifications:
- Enroll in Barista Training Programs: Consider attending the Barista Training Program at Capital Region BOCES for hands-on experience in coffee preparation and customer service.
- Take Specialty Courses: The Coffee and Beverage Service Course at Schenectady County Community College provides in-depth training in brewing and espresso techniques.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification may be required or valued by employers.
- Earn Professional Certification: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification is internationally recognized and can significantly enhance career prospects.
- Gain Customer Service Experience: Strong interpersonal skills are vital to succeed as a Barista.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Albany, NY
Some of the prominent employers actively recruiting Baristas in Albany include:
- Starbucks
- Barnes & Noble
- 7 Brew Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Albany, NY Work At
Baristas in Albany typically find employment across various types of establishments, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These usually offer higher pay due to specialized coffee preparation and premium pricing.
- Cafes and Coffee Bars: Mid-range salaries with opportunities for tips and customer interaction.
- Fast Casual Chains: More standardized wages but greater employment availability.
- Bookstores and Retail Chains: Such as Barnes & Noble which often have in-store coffee bars.
The type of establishment often influences salary, benefits, and tip potential for Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albany, NY for Baristas
If you're exploring other roles similar to being a Barista, consider these related hospitality positions that share skills and often appear in the same work environments:
This includes Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager roles, each with overlapping skills in beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Albany, NY
Baristas should be aware of labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their employment.
- For federal labor laws and employment regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For New York-specific labor laws and resources, consult the New York State Department of Labor site.