Barista Salary in Atlanta, GA
Baristas in Atlanta, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.11 per hour, which translates to about $604.40 per week, $2,619.07 per month, and $31,428.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Atlanta is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and a thriving coffee culture in the city that boosts employment opportunities in this role.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Atlanta, GA?
The salary of a Barista in Atlanta can vary depending on experience and employer, but the following table provides a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.20 | $448.00 | $1,938.67 | $23,296.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.11 | $604.40 | $2,619.07 | $31,428.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.40 | $816.00 | $3,520.00 | $42,432.00 |
Do Baristas in Atlanta Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Atlanta often earn tips that can significantly augment their base salary. On average, they may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer flow.
Barista Salary in Atlanta vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.11 per hour, translating to about $31,428.80 per year.
Baristas in Atlanta earn approximately the same as the national average with the hourly pay of $15.11 and annual pay of $31,428.80, showing that Atlanta’s pay scale for Baristas is aligned with the overall U.S. standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Atlanta for Baristas
When looking at nearby areas, Barista salaries can vary slightly within the metro area:
- Midtown: $15.50 per hour
- Buckhead: $17.60 per hour
Baristas working in Buckhead can expect significantly higher hourly pay than those in Midtown or other areas, reflecting the higher cost of living and upscale establishments in that neighborhood.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Atlanta?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Barista in Atlanta:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills, latte art, and faster customer service abilities can command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale cafes, specialty coffee shops, and boutique hotels tend to pay more than fast food or chain coffee outlets.
- Location: Neighborhoods with higher living costs like Buckhead generally offer better compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Completing recognized Barista certification programs may lead to higher wages.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Working peak hours or weekends may come with bonuses or wage premiums.
How To Become a Barista in Atlanta
To pursue a career as a Barista in Atlanta, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Barista Training Programs: Programs like the BaristaSource LLC 3-Day Barista Group Training offer comprehensive hands-on learning, covering espresso techniques, milk steaming, and coffee varieties.
- Take Fundamentals Courses: Courses such as Fuel Coffee Roaster Barista Fundamentals provide essential knowledge and skills training in a practical setting.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as Certified Barista and the SCA Barista Skills Certification demonstrate competence and improve job prospects and salary potential.
- Gain Experience: Begin with entry-level roles in cafes to build practical skills and customer service expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Atlanta
Some well-known employers hiring Baristas in Atlanta include:
- Hopkins and Company
- FLIK Hospitality Group
- The Daily
- Macy's
- Eurest
Establishments That Baristas in Atlanta Work At
Baristas in Atlanta can find employment across various establishments, including:
- Casual Cafes: Often offer steady work hours but moderate salaries.
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These establishments typically pay higher wages and value skilled Baristas.
- Fast Casual Chains: Provide reliable employment but often with lower pay and less opportunity for tips.
- Hotels and Hospitality Venues: Can offer competitive salaries and potential benefits.
The type of establishment greatly affects both salary and tip potential, with specialty cafes and upscale venues being more lucrative.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Atlanta for Baristas
If you are interested in careers similar to Barista, consider these related roles that involve customer service and beverage preparation:
These include Bartender, Barback, and other Barista opportunities, which all offer different salary ranges and responsibilities within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Atlanta
Baristas in Atlanta should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment.
- For comprehensive federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Specific state labor regulations can be found on the Georgia Department of Labor website.
- The City of Atlanta's official website offers additional local employment guidelines and resources.