Barista in Cary, NC
Baristas in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Cary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities for coffee service professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Barista in Cary generally depends on experience, with entry-level employees earning less and seasoned baristas seeing higher wages. Here's a breakdown across experience levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,819.99 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Baristas in Cary Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Cary typically earn tips from customers. Tips can add a significant boost to their income, often amounting to an extra $2 to $5 per hour depending on the establishment and individual performance.
Barista Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Across the United States, Baristas make about $15.56 per hour on average, which equals roughly $32,364.80 per year.
Compared to this national average, Baristas in Cary earn slightly less per hour at $13.90, translating to a yearly income of $28,912.00. This difference might reflect regional cost of living and demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Baristas
Nearby Cary, certain areas offer higher pay rates for Baristas:
- Downtown Cary: $15.50 per hour
- Preston: $17.60 per hour
Baristas working in Preston could potentially earn more compared to those in Downtown Cary or Cary itself, making commuting a consideration for those seeking higher wages.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Cary?
Multiple factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Cary, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas who perfect their coffee-making and customer service skills command higher pay.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing recognized barista certifications can improve job opportunities and salary.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale cafes or specialty coffee shops often pay more than fast-food chains or casual diners.
- Hours and Shift Differentials: Working evening or weekend shifts, which might offer higher pay rates or bonuses.
- Geographic Location Within Cary Area: Salaries may vary at different local neighborhoods or business districts in and around Cary.
How To Become a Barista in Cary
Becoming a Barista in Cary can be approached through several pathways:
- Enroll in Local Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Institutions such as Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program and Durham Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program offer relevant training in beverage preparation and barista skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a valuable credential to demonstrate knowledge of food safety standards required by most employers.
- Earn a Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification: This certificate is a respected industry benchmark for coffee preparation expertise and can greatly enhance employability.
- Gain Work Experience: Many baristas start with entry-level roles to learn customer service and drink preparation before advancing.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Cary
Cary offers opportunities at several prominent employers looking for capable Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Harris Teeter
- Brecotea
Establishments That Baristas in Cary Work At
Baristas in Cary work in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Coffee Shops and Cafés: These are common workplaces offering a range of pay often dependent on location and customer volume.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Some also employ baristas for coffee service, typically with standardized pay structures.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores with Coffee Bars: Places like Harris Teeter often hire baristas with consistent schedules but varying pay scales.
- Specialty Tea and Coffee Shops: More upscale or focused establishments may offer higher wages reflecting specialized skills.
The diversity of establishments provides Baristas with varied earning potentials depending on the employer’s scale and market niche.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Baristas
Baristas interested in exploring related career paths in hospitality might consider the following roles:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and fellow Barista positions, each offering unique skills and salary ranges within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Cary
Baristas working in Cary should be aware of important legal and tax guidelines:
- Federal website providing information on labor laws and regulations offers comprehensive labor guidelines.
- State of North Carolina's official website contains resources on labor laws and employment regulations within the state.