Barista Salary in Honolulu, HI
Baristas in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn an average of $18.40 per hour, which breaks down to about $736.00 per week, $3,189.33 per month, and $38,272.00 per year.
The job demand for Baristas in Honolulu is growing positively at around 6% per year, suggesting a rising need for skilled coffee professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary for a Barista in Honolulu varies with experience and skill level. Here is an overview of earnings based on different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Baristas in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Honolulu typically earn tips which can add a significant amount to their income, often an extra $2-$5 per hour depending on the location and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, a Barista earns an average of $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Honolulu earn more, with an hourly wage of $18.40 and an annual salary of $38,272. This reflects the higher cost of living and strong coffee culture in Hawaii.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Baristas
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Baristas:
- Waikiki: $19.50 per hour
- Downtown Honolulu: $18.80 per hour
Baristas working in Waikiki tend to earn the highest wages due to the area's heavy tourism and bustling hospitality industry.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Honolulu?
The salary of a Barista in Honolulu can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and skill level: Experienced Baristas with expert latte art or espresso preparation skills command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale cafes, hotels, or specialty coffee shops tends to pay better than fast-casual or chain coffee shops.
- Shift and Hours: Baristas working early morning or late-night shifts may receive shift differentials.
- Certifications: Having recognized certifications can boost pay opportunities.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Honolulu’s higher cost of living and strong coffee culture contribute to elevated wages.
How To Become a Barista in Honolulu
To become a Barista in Honolulu, prospective candidates can follow key steps to enhance their employability and salary prospects.
- Complete Barista Training Programs: Enrolling in programs like the Hawaii Coffee Association Barista Training offers comprehensive knowledge in coffee preparation and customer service skills.
- Consider Culinary Arts Courses: Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program provides courses that include beverage management and barista skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices required by most employers.
- Get Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification: This certification recognizes proficiency in coffee preparation and enhances job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Hands-on experience at local cafés or coffee shops is essential for skill development and career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Honolulu
Popular employers actively hiring Baristas in Honolulu include:
- Starbucks
- Honolulu Coffee
- Island Vintage Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Honolulu Work At
Baristas in Honolulu are employed in various types of establishments, each influencing salary levels differently:
- Specialty Coffee Shops and Cafés: Often pay higher wages due to the specialized nature of their coffee offerings.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide steady work but typically with moderate pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Tend to offer higher salaries and benefits, often appealing for career growth.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Like Starbucks, usually offer consistent but competitive wages with opportunities for advancement.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Baristas
If you're interested in roles related to Barista, consider exploring these similar hospitality positions:
These positions include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, all of which share aspects of the beverage service industry and may have overlapping skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Honolulu
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Baristas working in Honolulu.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to understand your rights and employer obligations.
- Visit the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations for state-specific employment rules.
- Check local ordinances and resources at the City and County of Honolulu official website for additional guidelines.