Barista Salary in Fort Lee, NJ
Baristas in Fort Lee, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $16.02 per hour, which translates to about $640.80 per week, $2,776.80 per month, and $33,321.60 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Fort Lee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local coffee and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Fort Lee, NJ?
The salary of a Barista in Fort Lee varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.35 | $574.00 | $2,483.67 | $29,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.02 | $640.80 | $2,776.80 | $33,321.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.88 | $715.20 | $3,096.80 | $37,142.40 |
Do Baristas in Fort Lee Earn Tips?
Baristas in Fort Lee typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, they can make an extra $3 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer traffic. This additional income can substantially increase their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Fort Lee vs. National Average
The national average salary for Baristas is about $16.02 per hour, equivalent to around $33,321.60 annually.
Baristas in Fort Lee earn around the national average with an hourly rate of $16.02 and yearly salary of $33,321.60, making Fort Lee a competitive location for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lee for Baristas
Nearby areas offer the following typical hourly salaries for Baristas:
- Edgewater: $21.58 per hour
- Hoboken: $17.48 per hour
Edgewater notably offers higher pay, making it an attractive option for Baristas willing to commute for increased earnings.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Fort Lee?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Barista in Fort Lee:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills and more experience usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or high-end cafes can offer better pay compared to fast-casual chains.
- Certifications: Having certifications such as the Certified Barista by Specialty Coffee Association can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Hours and Tips: Evening or weekend shifts often come with more customer traffic and higher tips.
- Local Demand and Economy: The economic environment and cost of living in Fort Lee play an essential role in wage levels.
How To Become a Barista in Fort Lee
Starting a career as a Barista in Fort Lee involves several steps to build skills and qualifications:
- Get Formal Barista Training: Programs such as the Barista Training Program at Bean Culture Café provide hands-on experience in coffee techniques and customer service.
- Advance Your Skills: Courses like Coffee Brewing Techniques at Green Bean Roastery offer specialized knowledge in brewing and bean selection.
- Earn Certifications: Consider obtaining the Certified Barista by Specialty Coffee Association to demonstrate expertise and professionalism.
- Obtain Food Safety Licenses: The Food Handler's License is often required to comply with health and safety standards.
- Gain Experience: Many start in entry-level positions and progress into higher pay grades with time and performance.
For those interested in culinary education or formal certifications, resources like the CareerOneStop or New Jersey Department of Education can provide information on training programs and courses available nearby.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Fort Lee
Some of the top employers seeking Baristas in Fort Lee include:
- Starbucks
- Bean & Bean Coffee Roasters
- Dunkin'
Establishments That Baristas in Fort Lee Work At
Baristas in Fort Lee typically find employment in a range of establishments such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often offer higher wages and opportunities to refine coffee-making skills.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Cafes: These businesses might offer moderate pay but often provide steady hours and tips.
- Chain Coffee Stores: Large chains like Starbucks and Dunkin' tend to have structured pay scales and benefits.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Some Baristas work in upscale restaurants or hotels, which may include additional responsibilities and higher pay.
The type of establishment can significantly impact a Barista’s salary, with specialty and upscale venues tending to pay more than fast food or casual settings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lee for Baristas
If you are interested in related roles within hospitality, you might consider positions such as:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Cashier roles, which have overlapping skills and responsibilities with Baristas.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Fort Lee
Baristas working in Fort Lee should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities.
- State labor standards and wage regulations can be found on the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development website.
- Federal labor laws, including minimum wage and overtime rules, are available through the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The Official website of Fort Lee, NJ also provides local government resources and updates related to employment.