Barista Salary in Burlington, VT
Baristas in Burlington, VT, in 2025, earn approximately $16.41 per hour, which translates to about $656.40 per week, $2,844.40 per month, and $34,132.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Burlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing interest in specialty coffee culture and the need for skilled coffee professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Burlington, VT?
The salary of a Barista in Burlington varies depending on experience and skills. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.00 | $760.00 | $3,293.33 | $39,520.00 |
Do Baristas in Burlington Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Burlington typically earn tips. Tips can substantially boost their earnings, often adding an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the establishment and customer flow.
Barista Salary in Burlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to around $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Burlington earn more, at approximately $16.41 per hour and $34,132.80 annually. This difference may reflect Burlington's growing coffee scene and customer base willing to pay for quality service.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burlington for Baristas
When looking at nearby localities, Barista salaries are slightly higher in certain neighborhoods:
- Downtown Burlington: $17.50 per hour
- South End: $18.00 per hour
Baristas working in the South End may find better pay opportunities, possibly due to trendy cafes and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Burlington?
Several factors can impact the salary of a Barista in Burlington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills and knowledge of espresso techniques can command higher pay.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of training programs or certifications, such as those from the Specialty Coffee Association, can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale cafes, specialty coffee shops, or busy locations typically leads to better wages and tips compared to smaller or fast casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Baristas working peak hours or weekend shifts might receive shift differentials.
How To Become a Barista in Burlington
Launching a career as a Barista in Burlington involves focused training and experience:
- Complete Local Training Programs: The Vermont Barista Training Program offers comprehensive instruction on espresso techniques, latte art, and customer service skills tailored to the Burlington area.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Programs like the Champlain College Hospitality Program provide education in hospitality management with modules on coffee shop operations and Barista skills, offering a broad understanding of the industry.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for handling food and beverages safely.
- Earn Specialty Barista Certifications: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification is internationally recognized and validates professional coffee-making skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Burlington
Several businesses actively seek skilled Baristas in Burlington, including:
- Starbucks
- Sodexo
- Healthy Living Market
- Barrio Bakery
- Maglianero
Establishments That Baristas in Burlington Work At
Baristas in Burlington typically find work across various establishment types:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often pay higher wages and place a premium on advanced Barista skills.
- Casual Cafes and Fast Casual Restaurants: Offer steady work and competitive, albeit somewhat lower, wages.
- Corporate Chains: Familiar locations like Starbucks provide structured training and benefits but may have standardized wage scales.
- Bakeries and Markets: Such venues may combine Barista duties with other roles, affecting pay based on responsibilities.
The nature and prestige of the establishment usually influence a Barista’s hourly wage and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burlington for Baristas
If you are considering careers related to being a Barista, here are some similar roles to explore:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions, which have overlapping skills in beverage service and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Burlington
Baristas should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Burlington.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for general labor laws and regulations.
- For Vermont-specific labor laws, consult the State of Vermont Department of Labor website.