Barista Salary in Fullerton, CA
Baristas in Fullerton, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.93 per hour, which translates to about $757.20 per week, $3,281.20 per month, and $39,374.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Fullerton is growing positively at around 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities for this role in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Fullerton, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Fullerton varies based on experience and skill level, but below is an overview across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.93 | $757.20 | $3,281.20 | $39,374.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.85 | $874.00 | $3,778.67 | $45,448.00 |
Do Baristas in Fullerton Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Fullerton typically earn tips. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume, which significantly boosts their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Fullerton vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 annually.
When compared to the national average, Baristas in Fullerton earn notably more, with an hourly wage around $18.93 and a yearly salary of about $39,374.40.
This difference reflects regional wage variations, cost of living in California, and local demand for skilled Baristas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fullerton for Baristas
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Baristas include:
- Downtown Fullerton: $19.50 per hour
- East Fullerton: $20.00 per hour
These neighborhoods have competitive wages, making them attractive for Baristas looking to maximize earnings while working close to Fullerton.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Fullerton?
Various factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Fullerton, including:
- Experience and Expertise: Veteran Baristas with advanced skills in espresso preparation and customer service typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale coffee shops or specialty cafes tend to offer better pay compared to fast-food or chain outlets.
- Shift Timing: Working during peak hours or weekends may come with shift differentials or higher tips.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can improve earning potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Fullerton's cost of living and coffee culture influence salaries positively.
How To Become a Barista in Fullerton
To pursue a career as a Barista in Fullerton, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in specialized training programs such as the Fullerton College Culinary Arts Program or the Orange County Barista Training Academy which offer hands-on experience in coffee preparation and customer service.
- Obtain essential certifications including the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is often required to comply with California's food safety regulations.
- Gain practical experience by starting in entry-level roles to develop your barista skills and customer interaction abilities.
- Enhance your skills with advanced certifications like the internationally recognized Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification to validate your expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Fullerton
The coffee culture in Fullerton is supported by several prominent employers seeking skilled Baristas:
- Starbucks
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- Philz Coffee
- Fraise Cafe
- Little Ox Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Fullerton Work At
Baristas in Fullerton typically work in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Cafes: These establishments often provide flexible hours but may offer moderate pay and tips.
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Known for higher quality coffee and customer service, they generally pay more and value certified skills.
- Fast Casual and Chain Coffee Shops: While offering steady employment, pay and tips might be on the lower side compared to specialty cafes.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Barista’s earning potential and overall work experience.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fullerton for Baristas
If you are looking into careers related to Baristas, several similar hospitality roles may be of interest:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions, which share similar skills and environments related to beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Fullerton
Baristas working in Fullerton must understand both state and local labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and earnings.
- For California state labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Federal tax information and guidelines are available at the Internal Revenue Service website.
- For local resources and regulations, check the City of Fullerton official website.