Barista Salary in Greensboro, NC
Baristas in Greensboro, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $12.53 per hour, which translates to about $501.20 per week, $2,171.87 per month, and $26,062.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Greensboro is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities for coffee professionals in the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Greensboro, NC?
The salary of a Barista in Greensboro varies based on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown across different experience levels reflecting typical pay rates in the area.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.53 | $501.20 | $2,171.87 | $26,062.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.03 | $641.20 | $2,754.53 | $33,302.40 |
Do Baristas in Greensboro Earn Tips?
Baristas commonly earn tips in Greensboro, often amounting to an extra $3 to $5 per hour in tips depending on the location and customer traffic. Tips can significantly supplement their base salary, providing increased overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Greensboro vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which equals about $31,200 per year.
Comparing this to Greensboro, Baristas earn slightly less on average, with hourly wages around $12.53 and yearly earnings near $26,062. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Greensboro for Baristas
Nearby neighborhoods around Greensboro offer varied pay rates for Baristas:
- Downtown Greensboro: $14.00 per hour
- Friendly Center: $13.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Greensboro may provide Baristas with higher wages due to the area's bustling commercial activity.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Greensboro?
Several factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Greensboro:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced espresso skills or latte art proficiency often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and higher-end cafes tend to pay more than fast food or chain coffee outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials improving total pay.
- Location Within Greensboro: Baristas working in busier or more affluent areas may earn better compensation.
- Certifications: Baristas with recognized certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification may have increased earning potential.
How To Become a Barista in Greensboro
Starting a career as a Barista in Greensboro involves a combination of training and hands-on experience.
- Enroll in Barista Training Programs: Local workshops like the Barista Basics Training Program provide practical skills in espresso preparation and latte art.
- Consider Culinary Education: Programs such as the GTCC Culinary Arts Program include barista training elements focused on beverage preparation and customer service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification can enhance job prospects by demonstrating knowledge of food safety practices.
- Pursue Specialty Certifications: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification is internationally recognized and can boost credibility.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Greensboro
Several prominent companies actively hire Baristas in Greensboro, including:
- Starbucks
- Harris Teeter
- Marriott International
Establishments That Baristas in Greensboro Work At
Baristas in Greensboro commonly work across a variety of establishments:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These typically offer higher wages and emphasize quality coffee and skilled preparation.
- Cafes and Casual Dining: Often provide a steady flow of customers and moderate salaries.
- Chain Coffee Outlets: Like Starbucks, generally offer consistent pay and benefits, with varying tip opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide stable employment and additional perks such as tips and employee benefits.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary, where specialty shops and hotels usually pay more than fast-food or chain environments.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Greensboro for Baristas
If you’re considering a career path related to Barista roles, here are some similar occupations that might interest you:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager roles — all of which involve beverage service and customer interaction in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Greensboro
Baristas should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For federal employment laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For North Carolina-specific labor regulations and workplace rights, consult the North Carolina Department of Labor website.