Barista Salary in Fayetteville, NC
Baristas in Fayetteville, NC, in 2025, earn about $13.90 per hour, which is roughly $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job market for Baristas is experiencing positive growth of approximately 5% per year in Fayetteville, reflecting a steady demand increase for coffee professionals and beverage service attendants in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Fayetteville, NC?
The salary of a Barista in Fayetteville varies based on experience and employer type. Below is an overview of potential earnings at different experience 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Baristas in Fayetteville Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. They can make an extra $1 to $3 per hour in tips depending on the location and customer traffic, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Barista Salary in Fayetteville vs. National Average
The national average salary for Baristas is approximately $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 annually.
Baristas in Fayetteville earn slightly less than the national average, with an average of $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually. This variation reflects local economic conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fayetteville for Baristas
Nearby, Baristas can find higher-paying opportunities in surrounding neighborhoods:
- Downtown Fayetteville: $15.50 per hour
- Haymount: $17.60 per hour
Haymount offers the highest rates, potentially due to upscale cafes and higher customer traffic in the area.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Fayetteville?
Several factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Fayetteville:
- Experience and Skills: Experienced Baristas with strong latte art, espresso preparation, and customer service skills command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes often results in better wages compared to fast-food chains or casual diners.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Hours: Baristas working morning or late shifts may earn shift differentials, increasing overall salary.
- Tip Income: Locations with high customer volume or generous clientele can provide substantial tip earnings.
How To Become a Barista in Fayetteville
Starting a career as a Barista in Fayetteville involves several important steps:
- Enroll in Training Programs: Consider programs such as the Fayetteville Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or Barista Training at Rude Awakening Coffee House to gain hands-on barista skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with food safety standards. Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification boosts professional credibility.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships at local coffee shops help build skills and open doors to better jobs.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills are crucial for a Barista's success and tip earnings.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Fayetteville
Fayetteville is home to several prominent employers actively seeking skilled Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Aramark
- Harris Teeter
- Hope & Main
- Citizen Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Fayetteville Work At
Baristas typically find work in a variety of settings, each affecting their salary potential:
- Cafes and Specialty Coffee Shops: Often provide higher wages and opportunities for tips due to high-quality beverage preparation.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Offer more stable hours but generally lower hourly pay and fewer tips.
- Supermarkets and Convenience Stores: Baristas here may have more consistent schedules but lower salary and minimal tips.
- Catering and Event Venues: Sometimes employ Baristas for temporary events, usually offering higher pay rates for short periods.
The nature and prestige of these establishments significantly influence a Barista’s overall earnings and job satisfaction.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fayetteville for Baristas
Baristas have options to explore other related careers in hospitality that utilize overlapping skills and experience.
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions, all of which share customer interaction and beverage service responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Fayetteville
Baristas should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax obligations at federal, state, and local levels to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Refer to the Federal website for the U.S. Department of Labor for nationwide labor regulations.
- The North Carolina Department of Commerce offers state-specific employment and labor resources.
- For local employment ordinances, visit the City of Fayetteville official website.