Barista Salary in Des Moines, IA
Baristas in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $12.85 per hour, which translates to about $514.00 per week, $2,227.33 per month, and $26,728.00 per year.
The job market for Baristas in Des Moines is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a rising demand for skilled coffee professionals and service staff in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Barista in Des Moines can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.85 | $514.00 | $2,227.33 | $26,728.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.67 | $626.80 | $2,709.33 | $32,537.60 |
Do Baristas in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Des Moines commonly earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. They can typically make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts their overall income and rewards excellent customer service.
Barista Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Des Moines earn slightly less at about $12.85 per hour and $26,728 annually.
This difference can be attributed to variations in the cost of living and local demand for Baristas in Iowa's capital city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Baristas
If you’re considering nearby locations for Barista positions, pay rates vary:
- Urbandale: $16.27 per hour
- Ankeny: $14.35 per hour
Baristas working in Urbandale earn the highest wages nearby, offering significant earning potential for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several key factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Des Moines:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with strong coffee-making skills, especially in espresso and latte art, often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes typically offers better pay compared to fast-food outlets or convenience stores.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can boost income potential.
- Customer Service Abilities: Engaging service that results in better tips can significantly increase total earnings.
- Shift Hours: Working peak hours or weekends may provide additional compensation in some establishments.
How To Become a Barista in Des Moines
Becoming a successful Barista in Des Moines involves several important steps:
- Complete Barista Training: Programs like the DMACC Culinary Arts Program and Iowa Coffee Academy offer focused training on coffee preparation techniques and customer service.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required for Baristas handling food and beverages.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start in entry-level coffee shop positions to develop skills and advance to higher pay tiers.
- Obtain Specialty Certifications: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification is internationally recognized and adds credibility to your skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Des Moines
Some of the leading companies and coffee shops hiring Baristas in Des Moines include:
- Starbucks
- Hy-Vee
- Target
- Scooter's Coffee
- Caribou Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Des Moines Work At
Baristas typically find employment in a variety of establishments, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often offer higher wages due to the skill and experience required.
- Fast-Casual Cafes: Provide steady work with moderate pay; tips may vary depending on customer volume.
- Large Retail Chains: Locations like supermarkets and big-box stores may offer more stable hours, but wages can be lower.
- Coffee Kiosks and Food Courts: Wage rates and tips can fluctuate considerably in these fast-paced environments.
The establishment type strongly influences salary, with specialty shops generally offering the best earning potential due to the premium on barista skills and customer experience.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Baristas
If you are considering other roles connected to the Barista profession, here are a few related careers to explore:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions, which share some overlapping skills and opportunities within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Des Moines
Understanding local and federal labor laws is essential for Baristas working in Des Moines to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Iowa official government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- For federal workplace standards and regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's website, which covers wage laws, safety, and workplace rights.