Barista Salary in Huntington Beach, CA
Baristas in Huntington Beach, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.39 per hour, which translates to about $735.60 per week, $3,187.60 per month, and $38,251.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Huntington Beach is growing steadily at about 4.6% per year, reflecting a positive job outlook for those interested in coffee preparation and customer service roles in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Huntington Beach, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Huntington Beach can fluctuate based on experience, skills, and employer type. Here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.93 | $797.20 | $3,445.33 | $41,446.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.93 | $957.20 | $4,144.53 | $49,766.40 |
Do Baristas in Huntington Beach Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can add an extra $5 to $10 per hour, boosting overall earnings significantly, especially during busy shifts or in high-traffic locations.
Barista Salary in Huntington Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.58 per hour, which translates to about $32,406.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Huntington Beach earn notably more, with an average hourly wage of $18.39 and an annual salary of $38,251.20. This difference can be attributed to the cost of living and competitive coffee shop markets in Southern California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington Beach for Baristas
Nearby locations with some of the highest Barista salaries include:
- Goldenwest & Yorktown: $20.25 per hour
- Brookhurst & Hamilton: $20.25 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher compensation, reflecting local demand and business density.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Huntington Beach?
Several factors play a role in determining a Barista’s salary in Huntington Beach.
- Experience and Skill Set: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills or latte art abilities can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale cafes or specialty coffee shops usually pays better than fast-food chains or standard coffee outlets.
- Hours and Shift Times: Evening or weekend shifts may offer additional pay or tips.
- Customer Service Skills: Exceptional interpersonal skills often lead to better tip earnings and sometimes raises.
- Local Market Competition: High competition among coffee shops in Huntington Beach can drive salaries upward to attract top talent.
How To Become a Barista in Huntington Beach
Becoming a Barista in Huntington Beach involves several steps to build skills and qualifications.
- Enroll in Local Culinary Programs: Options such as the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program in Costa Mesa provide comprehensive training, including barista techniques.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Saddleback College offers a Hospitality Management Program with relevant coursework beneficial for aspiring Baristas.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The California Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service employees, ensuring knowledge of safe handling practices.
- Advance Career with Professional Credentials: The ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification is nationally recognized and preferred by many employers.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Starting as a cashier or cafe assistant can provide valuable on-the-job training.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Huntington Beach
Some of the leading employers seeking talented Baristas in Huntington Beach include:
- Hyatt
- Starbucks
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Establishments That Baristas in Huntington Beach Work At
Baristas in Huntington Beach commonly work in a diverse range of establishments such as:
- Casual and Specialty Coffee Shops: These often provide the highest wages due to specialty offerings and customer engagement.
- Fast Casual and Chain Cafes: Positions here may have stable hours but sometimes offer lower pay than independent cafes.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments like Hyatt may offer competitive salaries and benefits.
- Restaurants and Bakeries: Occasionally, Baristas work in these venues, where tips and wages can vary widely based on clientele and volume.
The type and reputation of the establishment can significantly impact salary and advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington Beach for Baristas
If you are interested in roles similar to Barista, here are some related hospitality positions to explore.
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista roles, all involving customer service and beverage preparation skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Huntington Beach
Baristas should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their employment in Huntington Beach.
- California state labor regulations can be accessed at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For federal labor standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- Local employment laws and city-specific resources are available through the City of Huntington Beach official website.