Barista Salary in Elgin, IL
Baristas in Elgin, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.17 per hour, which amounts to about $606.80 per week, $2,629.47 per month, and $31,553.60 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Elgin is growing at a healthy rate of 6% per year, reflecting an encouraging outlook for those seeking opportunities in the coffee service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Elgin, IL?
The salary of a Barista in Elgin varies depending on experience and other factors. Here's a breakdown of expected earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.17 | $606.80 | $2,629.47 | $31,553.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $33,360.00 |
Do Baristas in Elgin Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Elgin often earn tips in addition to their wage. It is common for Baristas to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on location, shift, and customer volume, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Elgin vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Elgin make slightly more, earning approximately $15.17 per hour and $31,553.60 annually. This difference may highlight local demand, cost of living, and market competition in Illinois and the Elgin area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elgin for Baristas
Nearby areas in Illinois offer competitive pay for Baristas as well:
- Elk Grove Village: $16.24 per hour
- Lake in the Hills: $16.13 per hour
Baristas willing to commute to these locations might find higher wages by up to $1.07 per hour compared to Elgin.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Elgin?
Several factors contribute to the salary range of a Barista in Elgin:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more years of experience or advanced skills in espresso preparation and latte art tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or high-end cafes typically offers better pay compared to fast food chains or casual eateries.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification can increase salary potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Night or weekend shifts may yield higher pay due to shift differentials.
- Local Cost of Living: The cost of living in Elgin and surrounding areas impacts wages.
How To Become a Barista in Elgin
Becoming a successful Barista in Elgin involves several practical steps:
- Enroll in Relevant Training: Programs like the Elgin Community College Culinary Arts Program offer courses in beverage management and barista skills, providing valuable hands-on experience.
- Attend Specialized Workshops: The Chicago Barista Training Academy, located nearby, provides intensive workshops focused on espresso techniques, latte art, and customer service tailored specifically for aspiring Baristas.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers in Illinois to ensure knowledge of safe food handling.
- Gain Industry-Recognized Certification: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification helps demonstrate expertise and can enhance job prospects.
- Build Experience: Entry-level roles, internships, or apprenticeships in coffee shops are useful for developing practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Elgin
Some of the prominent employers in Elgin seeking Baristas include:
- Starbucks
- Dunkin'
- Arabica Cafe
Establishments That Baristas in Elgin Work At
Baristas commonly work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often offer higher pay reflecting specialized skills and customer service standards.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While offering steady work, wages may be slightly below specialty shops.
- Cafés and Bakeries: These provide diverse working environments and varying pay scales depending on the establishment's reputation and size.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Established franchises like Starbucks usually have standardized pay and offer tips and benefits.
Working in higher-end or niche coffee shops usually correlates with higher earnings for Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elgin for Baristas
If you are interested in careers similar to Barista, here are a few related roles worth considering that share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These roles include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, which are related in the beverage service and hospitality field.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Elgin
Baristas in Elgin should familiarize themselves with relevant labor regulations and taxation requirements. Helpful resources include:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws, wage standards, and regulations.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security offers information on state employment regulations and job programs.
- Local employment resources and community information for Elgin are available at the City of Elgin official website.