Barista Salary in Costa Mesa, CA
Baristas in Costa Mesa, CA, earn approximately $18.01 per hour, which translates to about $720.40 per week, $3,121.73 per month, and $37,460.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Costa Mesa is growing at a rate of about 6% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market for coffee professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Costa Mesa, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Costa Mesa varies based on experience and other factors. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.01 | $720.40 | $3,121.73 | $37,460.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.42 | $816.80 | $3,521.73 | $42,473.60 |
Do Baristas in Costa Mesa Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Costa Mesa often earn tips on top of their base salary. They can earn approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume, significantly boosting their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Costa Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average hourly wage of about $15.52, translating to an annual salary around $32,281.60.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Costa Mesa earn higher wages, both hourly and yearly, reflecting the higher cost of living and demand for skilled coffee professionals in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Costa Mesa for Baristas
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Baristas:
- South Coast Metro: $19.00 per hour
- Eastside Costa Mesa: $18.50 per hour
Baristas working in South Coast Metro can generally expect to earn more than those in Eastside Costa Mesa, with both locations providing better pay than some other neighboring areas.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Costa Mesa?
Several factors contribute to the salary levels for Baristas in Costa Mesa:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more experience and mastery of coffee brewing techniques generally earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and higher-end cafes often pay more than fast casual or chain coffee outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification can positively impact earning potential.
- Work Hours and Tips: Evening shifts or high-traffic locations may increase tip income, boosting total earnings.
How To Become a Barista in Costa Mesa
Becoming a successful Barista in Costa Mesa involves a combination of training, practical experience, and certification.
Many aspiring Baristas improve their skills through programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program, which offers courses in beverage management and barista skills providing valuable hands-on experience.
Specialized workshops, such as those introduced by the Coffee Lab at Theorem, focus on advanced coffee brewing techniques and latte art, ideal for those aiming to excel in Barista roles.
Additionally, obtaining certifications plays a key role; the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with food safety standards in California, while the internationally recognized Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification validates expertise in coffee preparation and customer service.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Costa Mesa
Several notable employers in Costa Mesa currently seek skilled Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Coffee Dose Cafe
- Milk & Honey
Establishments That Baristas in Costa Mesa Work At
Baristas in Costa Mesa typically work in a variety of establishments:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Typically offer the highest wages and opportunities for tips due to a knowledgeable customer base.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Cafes: Offer steady hours with moderate wages and some tipping opportunities.
- Chain Coffee Stores: Large chains provide consistent schedules and salaries, though tips can vary widely.
The type of establishment impacts not only base pay but also potential earnings from tips and opportunities for skill development.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Costa Mesa for Baristas
If you are interested in roles similar to Barista, consider exploring these related careers:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback roles, which share hospitality and beverage service skills and offer various salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Costa Mesa
Baristas in Costa Mesa should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax guidelines to ensure compliance and protection in the workplace.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive national standards.
- The California state department of labor website provides specific workplace regulations and employee rights.
- For local ordinances and resources, check the City of Costa Mesa official website.