Barista Salary in Brownsville, TX
Baristas in Brownsville, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $9.10 per hour, which translates to about $364.00 per week, $1,577.33 per month, and $18,928.00 per year.
The job market for Baristas in Brownsville is showing positive growth at about 5% per year, indicating a rising demand for skilled coffee professionals and customer service experts in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Brownsville, TX?
The salary of a Barista in Brownsville varies by experience level and employer. Below is an overview of earnings based on experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.75 | $310.00 | $1,343.33 | $16,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $9.10 | $364.00 | $1,577.33 | $18,928.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $10.68 | $427.20 | $1,847.20 | $22,214.40 |
Do Baristas in Brownsville Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn additional income through tips. On average, they may earn around $5 to $10 extra per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer volume, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Brownsville vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, with annual salaries around $30,160.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Brownsville earn less both hourly and annually. This difference largely reflects the local cost of living and economic conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Brownsville for Baristas
Nearby locations with higher wages for Baristas include:
- Starbucks Store #82549, Ruben Torres & S Minnesota Ave: $15.25 per hour
- Starbucks Store #10410, FM 802 & San Marcelo: $15.25 per hour
These nearby areas offer better pay opportunities for Baristas willing to commute outside Brownsville.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Brownsville?
Experience and skill level are primary factors affecting Barista earnings. More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills command higher wages.
Type of establishment plays a crucial role — Baristas working at specialty coffee shops or well-known chains often receive better pay and tips than those in smaller cafes or fast food restaurants.
Certifications and training, such as barista training programs, may also improve opportunities and salaries.
Work schedules that include peak hours or evenings might yield shift differentials, enhancing pay.
The local economy and cost of living in Brownsville influence wage scales compared to other cities.
How To Become a Barista in Brownsville
To pursue a career as a Barista in Brownsville, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in barista training programs like the UTRGV Continuing Education Barista Training, which focuses on coffee preparation and customer service skills.
- Consider culinary courses such as the Texas Southmost College Culinary Arts Program to build foundational knowledge valuable in food service roles.
- Obtain required certifications including the Food Handler Certification and the ServSafe Certification, which are critical for food safety compliance in Texas.
- Gain practical experience by working in cafes or coffee shops to improve on-the-job skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Brownsville
Some of the top employers for Baristas in Brownsville are:
- Starbucks
- Target
- Raw Xocolatl
Establishments That Baristas in Brownsville Work At
Baristas in Brownsville mainly work in various types of establishments:
- Coffee shops and specialty cafes: These often offer higher wages and more opportunity for tips due to quality service demands.
- Fast casual restaurants: Wages are generally moderate, but steady tips are common during busy hours.
- Large retail chains: May provide consistent schedules but typically lower tips and hourly pay.
- Food service outlets and convenience stores: Positions here usually pay less and offer fewer tipping opportunities.
The establishment type directly affects total compensation, with specialty venues generally providing the highest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Brownsville for Baristas
If you are exploring careers related to being a Barista, consider positions such as:
These roles include Bartender, Barback, and Cashier, which share similar skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Brownsville
It is important for Baristas in Brownsville to be familiar with local labor laws and tax regulations to safeguard their employment rights and ensure compliance.
- Visit the Texas Workforce Commission - State labor laws and employment resources for information on wage laws, overtime, and employment rights.
- For federal regulations, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive details on workplace laws and protections.