Barista Salary in Fontana, CA
Baristas in Fontana, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.78 per hour, which translates to about $791.20 per week, $3,428.53 per month, and $41,142.40 per year.
The job market for Baristas is showing positive growth of about 6% per year, indicating an increasing demand for skilled coffee professionals in Fontana and surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Fontana, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Fontana varies with experience and employer, but generally, the earnings break down as follows:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.78 | $791.20 | $3,428.53 | $41,142.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.90 | $956.00 | $4,130.67 | $49,712.00 |
Do Baristas in Fontana Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips which can significantly add to their income. It is common for Baristas to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the coffee shop and customer volume, which can increase overall earnings notably.
Barista Salary in Fontana vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn approximately $15.63 per hour, equating to about $32,510.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Fontana make significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $19.78 and annual pay of $41,142.40. This difference reflects local demand, living costs, and the strong coffee culture in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fontana for Baristas
Nearby regions with higher pay for Baristas include:
- Foothill & Citrus: $22.40 per hour
- Sierra & Valley: $22.40 per hour
Baristas working in these nearby areas may enjoy increased wages compared to Fontana, likely attributed to different market conditions or clientele.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Fontana?
A Barista’s salary in Fontana can be influenced by various factors, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced skills such as latte art and espresso mastery often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes generally offers higher pay compared to fast-food chains or casual spots.
- Certifications: Possessing industry-recognized certifications can enhance salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may include higher pay due to shift differentials.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with higher demand for quality coffee services tend to pay more competitive salaries.
How To Become a Barista in Fontana
To start a career as a Barista in Fontana, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in a comprehensive training program such as the Barista Training Program at Klatch Coffee, which emphasizes coffee prep techniques, customer service, and equipment handling.
- Participate in the Coffee Skills Program at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, focusing on espresso preparation, latte art, and customer interaction.
- Obtain the California Food Handler Card, which is mandatory for all food service workers to demonstrate knowledge of food safety standards.
- Consider pursuing the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification to validate your expertise and advance your career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Fontana
Popular places currently hiring Baristas in Fontana include:
- Starbucks
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- Klatch Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Fontana Work At
Baristas in Fontana are employed across a variety of establishments, each impacting pay differently:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These places typically provide the highest wages, reflecting the skill and customer service involved.
- Casual and Fast Casual Cafes: Offer moderate wages, often with opportunities for tips and advancement.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Such as Starbucks, generally have standardized pay scales but offer consistent hours.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Sometimes employ Baristas, where wages can vary widely based on the establishment’s prestige.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fontana for Baristas
If you're interested in roles similar to Barista, consider these related positions within hospitality:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager—roles that involve working in beverage service with different levels of responsibility and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Fontana
Baristas should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax requirements relevant to their employment in Fontana, CA.
- Information about federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California-specific workplace regulations and labor standards are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For city-specific employment information, visit the Fontana government website.