Barista Salary in Eugene, OR
Baristas in Eugene, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $16.71 per hour, which translates to about $668.40 per week, $2,896.40 per month, and $34,756.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Eugene is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled coffee professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Eugene, OR?
The salary of a Barista in Eugene 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) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,427.33 | $29,224.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.71 | $668.40 | $2,896.40 | $34,756.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.53 | $941.20 | $4,070.93 | $48,902.40 |
Do Baristas in Eugene Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Eugene typically earn tips from customers, which can significantly boost their income. It’s common for Baristas to earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Eugene vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.63 per hour, translating to about $32,510.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Baristas in Eugene earn slightly more at about $16.71 per hour and $34,756.80 annually, reflecting the competitive coffee culture and demand in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Eugene for Baristas
When considering nearby areas, Barista salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Eugene: $17.50 per hour
- University District: $17.00 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Eugene tend to earn a bit more than those in the University District, likely reflecting the higher customer traffic and establishment types in the city center.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Eugene?
Several factors influence how much a Barista can earn in Eugene:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills, including espresso preparation and latte art, usually command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Baristas working in specialty coffee shops or high-traffic cafés may earn more compared to those in fast food or casual chains.
- Location: Working in busier or more upscale neighborhoods such as Downtown Eugene often correlates with better wages and tips.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like Barista Certification from the Specialty Coffee Association can impact earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Baristas working early mornings, late evenings, or weekends might receive shift differentials or higher tips.
How To Become a Barista in Eugene
Starting a Barista career in Eugene involves several steps to gain the necessary skills and qualifications:
- Enroll in Local Training Programs: Consider programs like Lane Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers courses in beverage management and barista skills, providing hands-on experience in coffee preparation and customer service.
- Attend Workshops: The University of Oregon Continuing Education Barista Training provides workshops focusing on espresso techniques, latte art, and coffee shop operations.
- Obtain Required Certifications: A Food Handler’s Permit is required by the state of Oregon for all food service workers, including Baristas, to ensure knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: Obtaining Barista Certification from the Specialty Coffee Association demonstrates proficiency in coffee preparation, customer service, and equipment maintenance, which can improve employment prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Baristas start by working in entry-level coffee shop positions to build practical skills on the job.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Eugene
Some of the most prominent employers seeking qualified Baristas in Eugene include:
- Starbucks
- Dutch Bros Coffee
- The Human Bean
Establishments That Baristas in Eugene Work At
Baristas in Eugene typically find work in various settings such as:
- Casual Coffee Shops: Often provide a friendly environment with steady tips but may offer moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual and Chain Cafés: Places like Starbucks and Dutch Bros offer structured pay scales and benefits, though tips may vary.
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These establishments often pay higher wages to skilled Baristas capable of crafting high-quality espresso and latte art.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Baristas may work in these establishments’ coffee bars or breakfast service areas, where pay can differ depending on the venue style.
The type of establishment strongly affects Barista salaries and tipping opportunities, with specialty coffee shops often at the higher end.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Eugene for Baristas
If you are exploring careers related to being a Barista, consider the following similar roles in the hospitality industry:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Server positions, which share similar customer service and beverage preparation skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Eugene
Baristas working in Eugene should be aware of the relevant labor laws and tax regulations to navigate employment correctly:
- Information on Oregon's labor laws can be found on the official Oregon government website, which provides details on minimum wage, overtime, and worker protections.
- Federal labor standards and worker rights are available at the U.S. Department of Labor’s website.