Barista Salary in Athens, GA
Baristas in Athens, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $12.30 per hour, which translates to about $492.00 per week, $2,132.00 per month, and $25,584.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Athens is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in coffee shops and cafes throughout the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Athens, GA?
The salary of a Barista in Athens 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) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Baristas in Athens Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can provide an extra $2 to $5 per hour depending on the popularity and type of coffee shop, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Athens vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.00 per hour, which amounts to about $31,200 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Athens earn a bit less, with an average hourly wage of $12.30 and an annual salary of $25,584.00. This variance is common due to differences in regional cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Baristas
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Baristas:
- Downtown Athens: $13.50 per hour
- Five Points: $14.00 per hour
These areas tend to have more coffee shops and possibly higher customer traffic, which can lead to better pay and tipping opportunities.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Athens?
Several key factors can affect a Barista’s salary in Athens:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Baristas who master espresso techniques and customer service typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and premium cafes often pay more than fast-food establishments or chain coffee outlets.
- Location: Working in busier or more affluent parts of Athens such as Downtown or Five Points may offer better pay.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials, increasing total earnings.
- Additional Skills: Ability to perform latte art, knowledge of various brewing methods, and food handling certifications can make a candidate more valuable.
How To Become a Barista in Athens
Starting a career as a Barista in Athens involves several steps to enhance employability and skills:
- Undergo Barista Training: Programs like the Barista Training Program at Jittery Joe's Coffee focus on espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service, which are essential skills for the job.
- Learn Brewing Techniques: Workshops such as those offered by 1000 Faces Coffee on advanced coffee brewing methods and flavor profiling can set you apart.
- Earn Certifications: Obtaining a Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification shows professional proficiency and can boost your salary prospects.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Certification such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required for employment in food service roles.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Athens
Key employers in the Athens area looking for skilled Baristas include:
- Starbucks
- Jittery Joe's Coffee
- 1000 Faces Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Athens Work At
Baristas in Athens typically find roles in a variety of establishments including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These establishments usually pay higher due to the focus on quality and customer experience.
- Casual Cafes and Coffee Chains: Common employers that may offer stable but moderate pay.
- Fast-Casual Restaurants: Some fast-casual places also hire Baristas, although pay can vary widely.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary due to differences in customer volume, prestige, and tipping culture.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens for Baristas
If you're exploring roles related to Barista positions, consider these similar careers which share overlapping skills and industry:
Included here are Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions, all of which involve beverage service and offer different salary ranges and career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Athens
Baristas should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Georgia to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the State of Georgia Department of Labor website for detailed information on labor laws and employment standards.
- National employment and wage data can be accessed at the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website.