Barista Salary in Hawthorne, CA
Baristas in Hawthorne, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.21 per hour, which translates to about $768.40 per week, $3,329.73 per month, and $39,956.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Hawthorne is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and an expanding market for coffee professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Hawthorne, CA?
Barista salaries in Hawthorne vary with experience and skills. Below is an overview of the typical earnings across different levels of expertise:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.28 | $691.20 | $2,993.60 | $35,913.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.21 | $768.40 | $3,329.73 | $39,956.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.17 | $926.80 | $4,004.93 | $48,193.60 |
Do Baristas in Hawthorne Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Hawthorne often receive tips, which can amount to an extra $5 to $10 per hour in many coffee shops. Tips significantly supplement their hourly wages, depending on the establishment's popularity and customer flow.
Barista Salary in Hawthorne vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.55 per hour, translating to roughly $32,344 per year.
Compared to this, Baristas in Hawthorne earn notably higher wages, at approximately $19.21 per hour and $39,956.80 annually. This reflects the local cost of living, demand for skilled coffee professionals, and the vibrant coffee culture in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hawthorne for Baristas
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay for Baristas. For example:
- Downtown Hawthorne: $20.50 per hour
- Holly Park: $21.00 per hour
Baristas working in Holly Park earn the highest hourly wages among these nearby locations, which might attract those looking for better compensation.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Hawthorne?
Several factors contribute to the salary variations among Baristas in Hawthorne:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with extensive coffee knowledge and customer service skills tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working at premium coffee shops or cafes generally offers higher pay than chain franchises or fast-food outlets.
- Certifications: Holding recognized barista certifications can boost earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might come with higher pay due to demand.
- Local Cost of Living: The relatively high living expenses in Hawthorne push salaries upward.
How To Become a Barista in Hawthorne
Starting a career as a Barista in Hawthorne involves several key steps to develop the necessary skills and qualifications:
- Complete Formal Training: Enroll in a Barista Training Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, which offers comprehensive instruction in coffee preparation, customer service, and equipment maintenance.
- Obtain Specialty Certifications: Consider earning the globally recognized Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification, which enhances knowledge and barista skills.
- Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring a Food Handler's Card is mandatory in California. The ServSafe Certification is also widely respected for food safety training.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships help develop practical skills and build a reputation in the coffee community.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Hawthorne
Several prominent companies in Hawthorne are actively seeking talented Baristas, including:
- Starbucks
- Urth Caffe
- SpaceX
Establishments That Baristas in Hawthorne Work At
Baristas in Hawthorne work across a range of establishments, such as:
- Casual Coffee Shops and Cafes: These locations often provide a friendly atmosphere and opportunities for tips but may have moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Dining: Higher customer volume can mean faster-paced work and steady hours, with competitive salaries.
- High-End Specialty Coffee Stores: These frequently offer better wages and value advanced barista skills and certifications.
- Corporate Cafeterias and Venues: These jobs may offer consistent pay and benefits but less opportunity for tips.
The type of establishment influences both the base salary and additional income from tips, making it an important consideration for prospective Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hawthorne for Baristas
If you are interested in careers related to Baristas, you might consider exploring these similar roles, which also have opportunities in hospitality and food service:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager roles, which involve overlapping hospitality skills and distinct salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Hawthorne
Baristas should stay informed about labor and tax regulations applicable in California and the United States to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- California state labor laws and regulations are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on state employment services and benefits.
- Federal labor laws and resources can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor.