Barista Salary in Fairfield, CA
Baristas in Fairfield, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.49 per hour, which translates to about $819.60 per week, $3,551.60 per month, and $42,619.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Fairfield is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in this role within the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Fairfield, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Fairfield can vary depending on experience and workplace, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.86 | $794.40 | $3,431.20 | $41,182.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.49 | $819.60 | $3,551.60 | $42,619.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.14 | $845.60 | $3,663.47 | $43,931.20 |
Do Baristas in Fairfield, CA Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Fairfield often earn tips in addition to their regular salary. Tips can vary widely, but it’s common to earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips during busy periods, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Fairfield, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.64 per hour, translating to about $32,531.20 per year.
In comparison, Baristas in Fairfield earn considerably more, with an average hourly wage of $20.49 and an annual salary of approximately $42,619.20.
This higher salary reflects factors such as local cost of living and the demand for skilled beverage service professionals in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fairfield for Baristas
Nearby areas with high pay rates for Baristas include:
- Green Valley: $20.25 per hour
- Travis & North Texas: $20.25 per hour
Baristas commuting to these nearby locations might find slightly competitive pay comparable to Fairfield’s average rates.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Fairfield, CA?
Several key factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Fairfield:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Baristas with advanced skills in coffee preparation and customer service often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and higher-end cafes tend to pay better than fast casual or chain coffee outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Holding food safety or barista-specific certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift Patterns: Working morning or weekend shifts where demand is higher can lead to shift differentials or more tips.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Fairfield’s economic conditions influence wage levels compared to other cities.
How To Become a Barista in Fairfield, CA
To start a career as a Barista in Fairfield, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in barista training courses or hospitality programs such as those offered by Napa Valley College Hospitality Program, which includes barista-specific training near Fairfield.
- Consider culinary arts education with beverage modules available at Solano Community College Culinary Arts Program in Fairfield.
- Obtain mandatory certifications such as the California Food Handler Card to ensure food safety knowledge.
- Gain the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification, which is often required by employers in the food and beverage industry.
- Develop skills through on-the-job training and customer service experience at coffee shops or cafes.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Fairfield, CA
Many popular and established companies hire Baristas in Fairfield, including:
- Starbucks
- Peet's Coffee
- Dutch Bros Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Fairfield Work At
Baristas in Fairfield typically find employment at a variety of establishments, such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often pay higher wages and may provide better tips due to a focus on customer experience and quality beverages.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer consistent hours and steady pay but may have lower tip opportunities.
- Chain Cafes and Coffee Houses: Offering structured workplace environments, these often have standardized pay scales with room for advancement.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Baristas here might enjoy benefits and slightly higher pay due to the premium nature of the establishments.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary level and potential tips earned.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fairfield, CA for Baristas
For those interested in fields related to Barista roles, consider these similar careers that share overlapping skills and environments:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager roles, which provide opportunities for career progression within the hospitality and beverage service industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Fairfield, CA
Baristas should be familiar with key labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and protect their employment rights.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- Check the California Department of Industrial Relations for resources specific to California state labor laws and workplace standards.
- Consult the City of Fairfield official website for local employment resources and regulations.