Barista Salary in Glendale, CA
Baristas in Glendale, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.70 per hour, which translates to about $748.00 per week, $3,241.33 per month, and $38,896.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Glendale is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local coffee and café industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Glendale, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Glendale can vary depending on experience, skills, and the employer. Below is a breakdown of typical pay rates by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.33 | $613.20 | $2,653.20 | $31,838.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.70 | $748.00 | $3,241.33 | $38,896.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.80 | $912.00 | $3,944.00 | $47,424.00 |
Do Baristas in Glendale Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Glendale often earn tips in addition to their regular wages. It is common for Baristas to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can substantially increase their overall earnings, especially in busy cafés and specialty coffee shops.
Barista Salary in Glendale vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.30 per hour, translating to approximately $31,824 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Glendale earn higher wages, with an average of $18.70 per hour and $38,896 annually. This reflects the region's higher living costs and the competitive coffee shop market in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Glendale for Baristas
The following nearby areas offer higher salaries for Baristas:
- Universal City: $22.08 per hour
- Maywood: $20.79 per hour
Baristas working in Universal City and Maywood can expect to earn more than those in Glendale due to local market demand and living costs.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Glendale?
Several factors can impact a Barista's earnings in Glendale:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with expertise in specialty coffee preparation and latte art typically command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Wages tend to be higher in upscale cafes, boutique coffee shops, and high-traffic locations versus fast-food or chain outlets.
- Shift Timing: Working peak hours or weekend shifts may come with additional pay incentives or tips.
- Certifications and Training: Baristas with recognized certifications or formal training in coffee arts might have higher earning potential.
- Customer Service Skills: Strong interpersonal skills can lead to better customer tips and career advancement.
How To Become a Barista in Glendale
To build a successful career as a Barista in Glendale, consider the following steps:
- Complete Barista Training Programs: Enroll in specialized courses such as the Barista Training Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College. This program covers essential coffee preparation and customer service skills.
- Obtain Specialty Certifications: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification offers internationally recognized credentials in brewing techniques, espresso preparation, and latte art.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The Food Handler's Card is required by California law for all food service employees. The ServSafe Certification is also valuable as it educates workers on food safety, sanitation, and hygiene.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Seek entry-level Barista positions to gain practical experience and improve your skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Glendale
Several well-known coffee companies actively hire Baristas in Glendale, including:
- Starbucks
- Coffee Commissary
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Establishments That Baristas in Glendale Work At
Baristas in Glendale commonly work at a range of establishments such as:
- Cafés and Coffee Shops: These are the most prevalent workplaces offering diverse wage scales depending on café prestige and clientele.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service Restaurants: These may offer consistent but generally lower wages compared to specialty coffee shops.
- Hotels and Resorts: Baristas here might earn higher salaries and sometimes benefits given the upscale environment.
- Catering Companies and Event Venues: Seasonal or event-based Barista jobs can offer competitive hourly rates.
The variety of work settings provides Baristas with options in terms of pay, work environment, and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Glendale for Baristas
If you are interested in careers similar to Barista, consider roles that involve customer service and beverage preparation:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista positions, which share skills in drink preparation and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Glendale
Baristas working in Glendale should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations at various government levels to protect their rights and understand obligations.
- Information about federal labor laws can be accessed via the U.S. Department of Labor.
- California state labor laws and workplace standards are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- The City of Glendale official website provides local regulations and employee resources.