Barista Salary in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Baristas in Fort Lauderdale, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.09 per hour, which translates to about $683.60 per week, $2,962.27 per month, and $35,547.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Fort Lauderdale is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for coffee and beverage service in the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The salary of a Barista in Fort Lauderdale 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) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.09 | $683.60 | $2,962.27 | $35,547.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.50 | $900.00 | $3,900.00 | $46,800.00 |
Do Baristas in Fort Lauderdale Earn Tips?
Baristas typically earn tips as a meaningful part of their income. In Fort Lauderdale, Baristas can earn approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the location and clientele, which can add significantly to their base wage.
Barista Salary in Fort Lauderdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.50 per hour, translating to about $32,240 per year.
When compared to the national average, Baristas in Fort Lauderdale earn slightly higher, at about $17.09 per hour and $35,547.20 annually. This difference reflects the region's cost of living and demand for skilled coffee professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lauderdale for Baristas
When looking at nearby areas, barista salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale: $18.00 per hour
- Las Olas: $17.50 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Fort Lauderdale might find slightly better pay compared to those in Las Olas, reflecting the higher foot traffic and premium establishments there.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Fort Lauderdale?
Several important factors influence the salary of a Barista in Fort Lauderdale:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced skills such as latte art or knowledge of specialty coffee often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale cafes or specialty coffee shops typically offers better pay than large chains or fast casual environments.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Baristas working during peak hours or holidays may receive shift differentials or higher tip income.
- Certifications and Training: Having certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can be advantageous.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant tourist and local coffee scene supports competitive wages.
How To Become a Barista in Fort Lauderdale
Becoming a successful Barista in Fort Lauderdale can be pursued through several practical steps:
- Complete Barista Training Programs: Consider programs like the MI Coffee Institute’s SCA Barista Certification, located nearby in Miami, which offers expert training and a globally recognized credential.
- Take Online Barista Courses: The Knowledge Academy provides a Basic Barista Course with live instructor-led sessions covering fundamental skills.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: Florida requires Food Handler Certification for food service workers to ensure proper food safety knowledge.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Starting in entry-level positions at cafes allows you to develop necessary customer service and barista skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Fort Lauderdale
Major employers in Fort Lauderdale actively looking for skilled Baristas include:
- Starbucks
- Marriott International
- Brew Urban Cafe
Establishments That Baristas in Fort Lauderdale Work At
Baristas in Fort Lauderdale generally find employment in a variety of establishment types, each influencing salary potential:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often pay higher wages and tips due to a focus on quality and customer experience.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Larger chains such as Starbucks provide steady hours but may offer lower hourly wages, partly supplemented with tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Establishments like Marriott International provide stable employment with benefits and sometimes higher pay.
- Cafes and Casual Dining: These venues can vary widely in pay depending on clientele and location.
Where a Barista works greatly impacts earning potential, with specialty and upscale locations generally offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lauderdale for Baristas
If you are interested in related roles that share similar work environments or skills, consider the following:
These roles include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista itself as a comparison to adjacent positions in beverage service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Fort Lauderdale
Baristas should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and city labor regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights:
- For federal labor laws visit the Department of Labor website to learn about minimum wage, overtime, and employment standards.
- The state of Florida provides employment services and labor market information at FloridaJobs.org.
- For local ordinances specific to Fort Lauderdale, check the City of Fort Lauderdale official website.