Barista Salary in Arvada, CO
Baristas in Arvada, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $20.43 per hour, which translates to about $817.20 per week, $3,541.20 per month, and $42,494.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Arvada is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for the role as coffee culture and café attendance continue to expand in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Arvada, CO?
The salary of a Barista in Arvada can vary depending on experience and specific employers. The following table highlights earnings at different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.11 | $644.40 | $2,782.40 | $33,508.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.43 | $817.20 | $3,541.20 | $42,494.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.91 | $1,036.40 | $4,481.73 | $53,912.80 |
Do Baristas in Arvada Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Arvada often earn tips which can significantly boost their income. On average, they may make an extra $3 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the café and customer flow.
Barista Salary in Arvada vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn about $15.60 per hour, which amounts to roughly $32,448 annually.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Arvada earn considerably more, with a median pay of $20.43 per hour and an annual salary of $42,494.40. This difference is likely due to local economic conditions and the popularity of specialty coffee.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arvada for Baristas
When looking at surrounding neighborhoods, pay rates for Baristas can fluctuate slightly:
- Olde Town Arvada: $22.00 per hour
- Downtown Arvada: $21.50 per hour
Olde Town Arvada offers the highest pay near the city, likely owing to its vibrant café culture and tourist traffic.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Arvada?
Several important factors impact the salary of a Barista in Arvada:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills or specialized training can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Workplaces such as high-end or specialty coffee shops generally offer better pay than typical fast-food or chain coffee outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like those from the Specialty Coffee Association can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Availability: Evening or weekend shifts might include shift differentials that increase earnings.
- Tips: Locations with higher customer traffic or affluent clientele typically generate larger tip incomes for Baristas.
How To Become a Barista in Arvada
To start a career as a Barista in Arvada, you can consider these steps:
- Complete Barista Training Programs: Enroll in programs such as the Barista Training Program at Red Rocks Community College, which covers brewing techniques, customer service, and equipment maintenance.
- Earn Certifications: Obtaining the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification is valuable for demonstrating proficiency in coffee preparation standards and best practices.
- Food Safety Credentials: Required certifications include the Food Handler Certification in Colorado and the widely respected ServSafe Certification on food safety and sanitation.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start working in local coffee shops or cafes to develop skills and build a professional network.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Arvada
Some of the prominent employers looking for Baristas in Arvada include:
- Starbucks
- King Soopers
- Black Rock Coffee Bar
Establishments That Baristas in Arvada Work At
Baristas often find employment in diverse establishments such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Typically offer the highest pay due to the demand for quality and craftsmanship.
- Fast Casual and Casual Restaurants: These venues may offer stable work but often with slightly lower pay.
- Grocery Store Cafés and Chains: Positions in these places can offer benefits but sometimes at lower wages compared to independent coffee houses.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher compensation because of the upscale clientele and complex operations.
The nature of the establishment plays a significant role in determining the salary and tip income for Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arvada for Baristas
If you're exploring roles similar to Barista, here are some related hospitality positions worth considering:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager, roles that share overlapping skills in beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Arvada
Baristas in Arvada should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws to protect their rights and understand tax obligations.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for details on labor laws and employment regulations in the state.
- For comprehensive federal workplace guidelines, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website is an important resource.