Barista Salary in Colorado Springs, CO
Baristas in Colorado Springs, CO, earn approximately $16.72 per hour, which translates to about $668.80 per week, $2,898.13 per month, and $34,777.60 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Colorado Springs is growing moderately at about 6% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled coffee professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Colorado Springs, CO?
The salary of a Barista in Colorado Springs can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a general overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,561.47 | $30,737.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.72 | $668.80 | $2,898.13 | $34,777.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.07 | $882.80 | $3,807.47 | $45,865.60 |
Do Baristas in Colorado Springs Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Colorado Springs typically earn tips. On average, they can make an extra $4 to $8 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume. This can significantly boost their overall income.
Barista Salary in Colorado Springs vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.50 per hour, translating to about $32,240 per year.
When compared to the national average, Baristas in Colorado Springs earn slightly more, at about $16.72 per hour and $34,777.60 annually.
This increase reflects the local market demand and cost of living factors in Colorado Springs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Colorado Springs for Baristas
Nearby areas to Colorado Springs offer slightly varied salaries for Baristas:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- Northgate: $17.00 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Colorado Springs tend to earn a bit more than those in Northgate, possibly due to higher foot traffic and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Colorado Springs?
Several factors can influence how much a Barista earns in Colorado Springs:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills, such as espresso preparation and latte art, often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end coffee shops, specialty cafes, or busy urban locations usually pays more than small, local coffee stands.
- Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills can lead to better tips and opportunities for advancement.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials or increased tips due to higher customer volume.
- Certifications and Training: Completing professional Barista training and certifications can positively impact pay.
How To Become a Barista in Colorado Springs
Starting a career as a Barista in Colorado Springs involves a few important steps:
- Enroll in Barista Training Programs: Consider programs like Pikes Peak Community College Barista Training which focuses on espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service skills.
- Take Specialized Coffee Courses: The Colorado Springs Coffee Academy offers courses on brewing techniques, equipment maintenance, and café management.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as the SCA Barista Skills Certification demonstrate professional competence and can boost career prospects.
- Get a Food Handler's Permit: A state-required certification ensuring knowledge of safe food handling practices, essential for food service work.
- Gain Experience: Start working at coffee shops or cafes to develop practical skills and build a customer base.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Colorado Springs
Several prominent employers in Colorado Springs are often looking for skilled Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Dutch Bros Coffee
- Coffee Exchange
Establishments That Baristas in Colorado Springs Work At
Baristas in Colorado Springs commonly find employment across various types of establishments:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These often provide steady hours and a friendly work environment but may have lower wages.
- Fast Casual Cafés: Usually busier environments with the potential for higher tips and slightly better pay.
- Specialty Coffee Houses: Upscale spots focusing on quality and presentation usually offer better pay and opportunities for skill growth.
- Restaurant Coffee Bars: Some restaurants employ Baristas for specialty drinks, which can come with higher wages due to skill requirements.
The type of establishment can greatly influence a Barista's salary, with specialty and fast-casual locations generally offering higher earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Colorado Springs for Baristas
If you are interested in careers similar to Barista, here are some related positions you might explore, which also involve customer service and beverage preparation skills.
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback roles, which require similar or complementary skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Colorado Springs
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Baristas to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the official Colorado government website for state-specific labor laws including minimum wage and overtime rules.
- The U.S. Department of Labor offers federal resources related to workers’ rights and employment laws.