Barista Salary in El Paso, TX
Baristas in El Paso, TX, in 2026, earn approximately $11.21 per hour, which translates to about $448.40 per week, $1,943.07 per month, and $23,316.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in El Paso is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the local coffee and beverage service industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in El Paso, TX?
The salary of a Barista in El Paso varies depending on experience and the employer. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Baristas in El Paso Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas generally earn tips, which can significantly supplement their hourly wage. On average, a Barista in El Paso might earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Barista Salary in El Paso vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in El Paso earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $11.21 and an annual salary near $23,316.80. This difference reflects regional cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near El Paso for Baristas
Nearby areas in El Paso offer varying wages for Baristas:
- Downtown: $12.50 per hour
- Westside: $13.00 per hour
Baristas working in Westside generally enjoy higher pay rates than those in Downtown, which can be a factor when choosing employment locations.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in El Paso?
Several factors contribute to how much a Barista can earn in El Paso:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas or those with expertise in specialty coffee preparation tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale cafes and specialty coffee shops often pay better than fast food or casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might come with added pay or bonuses.
- Certification and Training: Holding a Barista Certification can enhance earning potential.
- Customer Service Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills can lead to better tips and higher employer ratings.
How To Become a Barista in El Paso
Starting a career as a Barista in El Paso involves a combination of hands-on experience and training.
- Training Programs: Local offerings such as the El Paso Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational knowledge in food preparation applicable to Baristas.
- Barista-Specific Training: Establishments like Coffee Emporium offer hands-on workshops focusing on espresso and latte art, enhancing practical skills.
- Certification: Obtaining a Barista Certification demonstrates proficiency and may improve job prospects.
- Food Safety Compliance: Obtaining a Food Handler's Permit is required in Texas and essential for working safely with food and beverages.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in El Paso
Prominent employers frequently hiring Baristas in El Paso include:
- Starbucks
- Target
- Tazza D'Oro Coffee Roasters
Establishments That Baristas in El Paso Work At
Baristas commonly find employment in a variety of venues, including:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These provide entry-level opportunities with standard wages and potential for tips.
- Specialty and Artisan Cafes: Often pay higher wages and require advanced skills in coffee preparation.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer consistent hours but generally lower pay compared to specialty establishments.
- Retail Chains: Places like Starbucks and Target offer stable salaries and benefits but might have less tip income.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary, with specialty cafes often offering the highest earning potential due to tips and skill requirements.
Related Hospitality Jobs in El Paso for Baristas
If you’re exploring careers related to Baristas, consider these roles that share similar skills or work environments:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions, which often complement Barista roles in food and beverage establishments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in El Paso
Baristas in El Paso should be aware of relevant labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure fair employment conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- State-specific employment laws and workforce resources are available at the Texas Workforce Commission.
- Local employment and labor information specific to El Paso can be found at the City of El Paso official website.