Barista Salary in Cleveland, OH
Baristas in Cleveland, OH, in 2025, earn approximately $15.06 per hour, which translates to about $602.40 per week, $2,610.40 per month, and $31,324.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Cleveland is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for those seeking work in coffee preparation and customer service roles.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Cleveland, OH?
The salary of a Barista in Cleveland varies based on experience and employer, but here are estimated earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.44 | $417.60 | $1,812.80 | $21,811.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.06 | $602.40 | $2,610.40 | $31,324.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.72 | $868.80 | $3,745.60 | $44,937.60 |
Do Baristas in Cleveland Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Cleveland often earn tips, which can add an extra $1 to $3 per hour on top of their base salary. Tips can sometimes significantly increase total earnings, especially in busy coffee shops and popular locations.
Barista Salary in Cleveland vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.06 per hour, translating to about $31,324.80 per year.
Baristas in Cleveland earn very close to the national average, reflecting typical wages for the role across the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cleveland for Baristas
Some nearby areas pay slightly higher wages for Baristas:
- Chagrin Falls: $15.53 per hour
- Columbus: $15.06 per hour
Chagrin Falls offers a somewhat higher hourly rate compared to Cleveland, which might attract Baristas seeking better pay within commuting distance.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Cleveland?
Several key factors influence how much a Barista can earn in Cleveland:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more experience and advanced skills in espresso preparation, latte art, or specialty coffees tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale coffee shops or specialty roasters usually pays more than chain or fast-food cafés.
- Shift Timing: Early morning or weekend shifts may come with premium pay rates or increased tips.
- Location and Commuting: Baristas working in higher-income neighborhoods might see better compensation due to customer demographics.
- Certifications and Training: Having industry certifications or formal training can increase earning potential.
How To Become a Barista in Cleveland
Becoming a successful Barista in Cleveland involves several steps to improve your skills and employability.
Consider enrolling in programs such as the Tri-C Hospitality Management Program, offered by Cuyahoga Community College, which provides foundational skills in hospitality and culinary arts valuable for Baristas.
Local coffee shops also sometimes offer Cleveland Barista Training workshops focused on espresso preparation, customer service, and latte art.
Obtaining recognized certifications further boosts your credentials. Important options include the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which assures food safety knowledge, and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification, an industry-standard showcasing coffee expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Cleveland
If you're looking for work as a Barista in Cleveland, notable employers include:
- Lucky's Cafe
- ReBol
- Starbucks
Establishments That Baristas in Cleveland Work At
Baristas in Cleveland typically find positions in various types of establishments:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Tend to offer higher pay and opportunities for skill development.
- Casual Cafés and Coffee Chains: Provide stable employment but at standard or lower wage rates.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: May offer faster-paced environments with tips but generally lower base pay.
- Restaurants and Bistros: Sometimes hire Baristas to complement beverage service, occasionally increasing wages.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact overall earnings, from base wages to tips and benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cleveland for Baristas
If you are interested in roles similar to Barista, here are some related positions to consider that involve hospitality and foodservice skills:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista roles, which share customer service and beverage preparation tasks within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Cleveland
Baristas in Cleveland should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements to understand their rights and obligations.
- Information on state labor laws and employment resources can be found at the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
- Federal employment standards and labor regulations are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Local regulations and services specifics are accessible via the City of Cleveland official website.