Barista Salary in Chico, CA
Baristas in Chico, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $21.28 per hour, which translates to about $851.20 per week, $3,688.53 per month, and $44,262.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Chico is growing at a healthy rate of 5% annually, signaling increasing opportunities in the local specialty coffee and cafe industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Chico, CA?
Barista salaries in Chico vary based on experience and individual workplace factors. Below is an overview of typical earnings from entry-level positions to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.79 | $791.60 | $3,416.53 | $41,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.28 | $851.20 | $3,688.53 | $44,262.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.84 | $953.60 | $4,122.93 | $49,587.20 |
Do Baristas in Chico Earn Tips?
Baristas commonly earn tips in addition to their base pay. In Chico, a Barista might earn approximately $5-$10 per hour in tips, varying by location and customer volume, significantly enhancing their overall income.
Barista Salary in Chico vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50 and a yearly salary near $30,160.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Chico enjoy a notably higher hourly rate of $21.28 and an annual pay of $44,262.40.
This difference reflects Chico’s growing coffee culture and higher living costs compared to some other regions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Baristas
In the vicinity of Chico, certain neighborhoods offer higher compensation for Baristas:
- Downtown Chico: $22.50 per hour
- North Chico: $21.00 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Chico typically earn a premium due to the area's bustling cafe scene and tourist traffic.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Chico?
Barista salaries in Chico are influenced by:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced skills in latte art and specialty coffee knowledge often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale cafes or specialty coffee shops can lead to higher pay than chain coffee stores.
- Customer Base and Location: Busy areas with high foot traffic usually provide more tipping opportunities, increasing overall earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification can boost wages.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Baristas working peak hours or weekends might receive shift differentials or increased tips.
How To Become a Barista in Chico
To become a Barista in Chico, aspiring individuals should consider these steps:
- Complete Relevant Training Programs: Butte College offers a Culinary Arts Program that includes barista training focused on coffee preparation techniques and customer service skills.
- Gain Hospitality Knowledge: Chico State University’s Hospitality Management Program provides courses in beverage management, including specialty coffee service and barista skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler and Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification validate essential knowledge and skills.
- Develop Experience: Working part-time or as an intern in coffee shops can help build practical skills and connections.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Chico
Some of the leading employers seeking Baristas in Chico include:
- Starbucks
- Dutch Bros Coffee
- Peet's Coffee
- Bidwell Perk
- The Naked Lounge
Establishments That Baristas in Chico Work At
Baristas in Chico typically work across a spectrum of establishments such as:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These often offer steady hours and tips, with some variation in pay scale.
- Fast Casual Chains: Baristas here might receive consistent base wages, often slightly lower without as many tipping opportunities.
- Specialty and Boutique Cafes: These venues generally pay more and expect higher skill levels, often rewarding baristas with better base pay and tips.
- Hotel and Resort Cafes: Larger establishments may offer benefits and career advancement while providing competitive salaries.
Higher-end and specialty establishments tend to offer better overall earnings compared to casual or fast food-style coffee outlets.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Baristas
If you are interested in roles related to Barista, here are some similar positions:
These positions include Bartender, Barback, and fellow Baristas, sharing hospitality and beverage service skills with varied salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Chico
Baristas should be familiar with federal, state, and local labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities at work.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor law information.
- California-specific workplace regulations can be found on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- For local governmental resources and policies affecting employment, check the Butte County official website.