Barista Salary in Albuquerque, NM
Baristas in Albuquerque, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $14.12 per hour, which translates to about $564.80 per week, $2,447.47 per month, and $29,369.60 per year.
The job market for Baristas is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in demand for this role within Albuquerque and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Albuquerque, NM?
Barista salaries in Albuquerque vary widely based on experience, employer, and skill level. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different levels of experience for Baristas.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,413.33 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.79 | $751.60 | $3,254.93 | $39,083.20 |
Do Baristas in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Baristas typically earn tips as a valued part of their compensation. In Albuquerque, it's common for Baristas to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the location and customer volume, which can significantly supplement their hourly wage.
Barista Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.50 per hour, which equates to around $32,240 annually.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Albuquerque earn slightly less on an hourly basis at $14.12, and this reflects in the yearly salary being lower than the national $32,240 average.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Baristas
Nearby neighborhoods and districts offer slightly varying pay rates for Baristas:
- Uptown: $15.50 per hour
- Downtown: $14.80 per hour
Baristas working Uptown tend to earn better wages, reflecting a busier commercial district with higher customer traffic.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several key factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Albuquerque:
- Experience and Skill Level: More knowledgeable Baristas with advanced coffee preparation skills usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and busy cafes tend to pay better than fast-food chains or casual dining locations.
- Tips and Customer Volume: High-traffic areas usually mean more tips, which contribute significantly to total compensation.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may come with extra pay in some places.
- Certifications: Certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Skills Certification can enhance credibility and earning potential.
How To Become a Barista in Albuquerque
Starting as a Barista in Albuquerque can involve several educational and practical steps:
- Education and Training: Programs like the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program provide hands-on beverage management and Barista skills courses.
- Short-term Courses: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education Barista Training offers focused classes on coffee preparation and customer service.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Specialty Coffee Association Barista Skills Certification can boost your qualifications.
- Work Experience: Gaining experience in cafes or coffee shops hones skills and builds customer relation expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Albuquerque
Some of the top employers actively hiring Baristas in Albuquerque include:
- Starbucks
- Dutch Bros Coffee
- Satellite Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Albuquerque Work At
Baristas in Albuquerque typically work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These usually offer higher pay and opportunities for tips, requiring strong beverage crafting skills.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Often salaried or hourly wage-based jobs with moderate tip potential.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Established brands with steady hours but often with more standardized pay scales.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Occasional barista roles providing coffee services during events with variable pay rates.
The type of establishment will directly influence hourly wages, shift availability, and potential tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Baristas
If you're interested in careers similar to Barista, consider exploring roles such as:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions which share related skills and working environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Albuquerque
Baristas should be familiar with the specific labor laws and tax requirements in New Mexico:
- Information about New Mexico state labor laws and employment resources can be found at the State of New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.