Barista Salary in Durham, NC
Baristas in Durham, NC earn approximately $15.62 per hour, which translates to about $624.80 per week, $2,707.47 per month, and $32,489.60 per year. This makes the Barista position a viable option for those interested in the hospitality and food service industry in this region.
The demand for Baristas in Durham is growing steadily at around 6% per year, indicating a positive job outlook. This growth is fueled by the increasing popularity of coffee culture combined with expanding café and coffee shop businesses in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Barista in Durham varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer, but the following table outlines typical earnings at different stages of their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.27 | $490.80 | $2,123.20 | $25,478.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.62 | $624.80 | $2,707.47 | $32,489.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.88 | $795.20 | $3,429.33 | $41,350.40 |
Do Baristas in Durham Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Durham typically earn tips. On average, they can make an extra $2 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on location, customer volume, and service quality. This additional income can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Durham vs. National Average
The national average salary for Baristas is about $15.62 per hour or $32,489.60 per year, which matches the average earnings seen in Durham. This suggests that Barista wages in Durham are competitive and aligned with broader trends in the U.S.
However, individual salaries can vary based on location, employer, and experience.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Baristas
Nearby areas to Durham offer the following hourly pay rates for Baristas:
- Chapel Hill: $15.27 per hour
- Cary: $13.71 per hour
Among these, Chapel Hill offers slightly higher wages for Baristas compared to Cary, though both are close to Durham's average salary range.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors influence how much a Barista can earn in Durham:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more experience and advanced skills in coffee preparation or latte art often receive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Baristas working in specialty coffee shops, popular cafes, or high-end restaurants may earn more than those in fast food or chain coffee outlets.
- Location and Customer Volume: Busy urban areas or tourist spots often provide more opportunities for tips and higher wages.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can demonstrate proficiency and help negotiate better salaries.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Late-night shifts or weekend work may come with shift differentials improving total earnings.
How To Become a Barista in Durham
To start a career as a Barista in Durham, consider these steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Institutions like Durham Technical Community College offer Culinary Arts programs including barista training, focusing on beverage preparation and customer service.
- Obtain Food Handler Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and ensure knowledge of food safety standards.
- Consider Broader Hospitality Programs: Wake Technical Community College offers Hospitality Management courses with barista skill components.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in cafes or coffee shops to build hands-on skills and customer service experience is essential.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: Acquiring the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can improve job prospects and salary potential.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Durham
Some of the prominent employers in Durham seeking Baristas include:
- Aramark
- ISS Facility Services
- Starbucks
- Brock & Company
- People's Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Durham Work At
Baristas in Durham typically find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These venues form the bulk of Barista employers and typically provide standard wage rates.
- Specialty Coffee Houses: Coffee shops focusing on gourmet coffee may pay higher wages due to specialized skills needed.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Baristas in these places may deal with higher customer volume and sometimes receive lower base pay but more tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Baristas here often experience better pay rates and benefits compared to smaller cafés.
The type of establishment has a noticeable impact on salary and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Baristas
If you are exploring other careers within hospitality closely related to Barista positions, consider the following options.
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback roles, all of which involve skills related to beverage service with varying salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Durham
Baristas in Durham should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws, the North Carolina Department of Labor website is the authoritative resource.