Barista Salary in Hampton, VA
Baristas in Hampton, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $12.50 per hour, which translates to about $500.00 per week, $2,166.67 per month, and $26,000.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Hampton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing positive job prospects and increasing opportunities in the local coffee and hospitality market.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Hampton, VA?
The salary of a Barista in Hampton can depend on experience and the employer. Here's a breakdown by skill level:
| 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) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Baristas in Hampton Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Hampton typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. It’s common for Baristas to earn an extra $2 to $5 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings depending on the establishment and customer traffic.
Barista Salary in Hampton vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, translating to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Hampton earn slightly less at $12.50 per hour and $26,000 annually. The difference may be influenced by local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hampton for Baristas
Baristas working in nearby areas may find higher wages, such as:
- Downtown Hampton: $13.50 per hour
- Phoebus: $14.00 per hour
Positions in these neighborhoods might offer better pay, reflecting localized demand and business types.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Hampton?
Several factors play a significant role in determining how much a Barista can earn in Hampton:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Baristas who master advanced coffee-making techniques or espresso artistry usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and upscale cafes often pay more than fast-casual restaurants or chain coffee outlets.
- Customer Service and Communication Skills: Baristas with exceptional interpersonal skills can gain better positions or tips.
- Shift Timing: Working early morning or late-night shifts might provide additional pay incentives or tips.
- Certifications and Training: Holding recognized certifications or having formal barista training can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Barista in Hampton
To start a career as a Barista in Hampton, aspiring professionals can follow a few practical steps:
- Complete Barista Training Programs, such as the Barista Training Program at Thomas Nelson Community College, which covers coffee preparation and customer service skills.
- Pursue Hospitality Education through programs like the Hospitality Management Program at Hampton University to build broader industry knowledge.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications, for example the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is often required in food service positions.
- Consider Industry Recognized Certification from bodies such as the Barista Guild of America Certification to validate your skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Hampton
Hampton's vibrant coffee scene includes popular brands that are consistently hiring Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Dunkin'
- Panera Bread
Establishments That Baristas in Hampton Work At
Baristas in Hampton find employment across diverse settings such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These usually offer higher pay and opportunities to develop advanced coffee skills.
- Fast Casual Chains: Employers like Dunkin' or Panera Bread provide consistent hours but often at slightly lower wages.
- Hotels and Cafes: These establishments may offer better benefits and sometimes higher wages depending on market segment.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Baristas may work as part of a larger food service team with varying pay scales.
The type of establishment affects earnings notably, with specialty cafes often topping the wage scale for Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hampton for Baristas
If you're exploring careers similar to Barista, here are some related roles worth considering that also involve hospitality or beverage service skills:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions, all related in beverage service operations and typically found within hospitality businesses.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Hampton
Baristas should understand labor laws and tax regulations applicable on federal, state, and local levels to ensure compliance and maximize earnings.
- Review federal employment standards and wage laws on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Consult the Virginia state government site for state-specific labor laws, minimum wage, and workplace rights.
- For local regulations and resources, visit the Hampton city official website.