Barista Salary in Denton, TX
Baristas in Denton, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $13.78 per hour, which translates to about $551.20 per week, $2,388.53 per month, and $28,662.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Denton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the coffee service sector within the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Denton, TX?
The salary of a Barista in Denton varies by experience level, location, and employer, but here’s a general overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings based on typical ranges.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.48 | $419.20 | $1,814.13 | $21,749.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.78 | $551.20 | $2,388.53 | $28,662.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.14 | $725.60 | $3,146.93 | $37,731.20 |
Do Baristas in Denton Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Denton often earn tips in addition to their base pay. Typically, they may make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer traffic, significantly boosting their total earnings.
Barista Salary in Denton vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $13.78 per hour and approximately $28,662.40 per year.
Baristas in Denton earn wages that closely match the national average at the mid-level, reflecting the cost of living and demand in this Texas city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Denton for Baristas
Some nearby areas that offer higher pay for Baristas include:
- Rayzor Ranch: $15.25 per hour
- Loop 288 & I-35: $15.25 per hour
These locations provide opportunities for Baristas seeking higher wages compared to the Denton city average.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Denton?
Several important factors affect how much a Barista earns in Denton:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with advanced coffee knowledge, speed, and customer service skills tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Baristas working at specialty coffee shops or high-traffic cafes generally make higher wages than those at fast-food chains.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials or increased tips, improving earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Obtaining Barista certifications or completing training programs can make candidates more attractive to employers and enhance pay.
- Local Economy and Demand: Denton’s growing coffee culture and expanding hospitality industry positively impact salary levels.
How To Become a Barista in Denton
Launching a successful Barista career in Denton involves a few actionable steps:
- Participate in a Barista Training Program at North Central Texas College, which offers comprehensive training in coffee preparation, customer service, and equipment handling.
- Attend the Coffee Brewing Techniques Workshop at Denton Community College to refine advanced skills like espresso extraction and latte art.
- Earn the Certified Barista credential from the Specialty Coffee Association to validate your expertise and boost your hiring prospects.
- Obtain the Food Handler Certification by the Texas Department of State Health Services, which is mandatory for food service workers to ensure knowledge of food safety.
- Gain hands-on experience by working in local coffee shops or cafes to develop practical skills and customer interaction abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Denton
Some of the most prominent employers currently looking for Baristas in Denton include:
- Starbucks
- The Brown Thumb
- University of North Texas
Establishments That Baristas in Denton Work At
Baristas commonly find employment in various establishments, such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often pay higher wages and provide great opportunities to develop customer service and advanced coffee skills.
- Fast Casual Cafes: Typically involve quicker service and may offer hourly pay plus tips.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Baristas may work behind espresso bars or coffee stations and receive consistent wages.
- University and Corporate Cafeterias: These provide steady work hours with a potential for regular shifts.
The type of establishment significantly influences Baristas’ salary, with specialty cafes and busy chain locations often offering the best pay and tip opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Denton for Baristas
If you are interested in careers related to being a Barista, you might consider these similar roles that require overlapping skills and offer different responsibilities:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, all of which involve working within beverage service environments but with varying levels of responsibility and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Denton
It is crucial for Baristas to be informed about the labor laws and tax obligations that affect their work and earnings. Helpful resources include:
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive national information.
- The Texas Workforce Commission website offers details on employment laws and worker's rights specific to Texas.
- Check the Local government website for Denton, TX to stay updated on city-specific labor ordinances and resources.