Barista Salary in Huntington, WV
Baristas in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $12.00 per hour, which translates to about $480.00 per week, $2,080.00 per month, and $24,960.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Huntington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing appreciation for specialty coffee and café culture in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Barista in Huntington varies by experience and workplace, but here’s a general breakdown based on different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Baristas in Huntington Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Huntington, a Barista can expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the location and customer volume, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn approximately $15.56 per hour and about $32,364.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Huntington earn
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Baristas
When considering nearby locations, Baristas can find somewhat higher wages in these areas:
- Downtown Huntington: $13.00 per hour
- Barboursville: $12.50 per hour
Choosing to work in Downtown Huntington offers a better pay rate compared to Barboursville or other local areas.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Huntington?
Several factors influence how much a Barista earns in Huntington:
- Experience Level: More experienced Baristas often command higher wages due to their proficiency with coffee preparation and customer service.
- Skills and Certifications: Specialized training in coffee brewing techniques or certifications from the Specialty Coffee Association can enhance a Barista’s marketability and pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end cafés or specialty coffee shops generally offers better pay compared to chain coffee shops or smaller local cafés.
- Location: Baristas working in busier areas like Downtown Huntington can expect higher tips and sometimes better base pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials that increase earnings.
How To Become a Barista in Huntington
Starting a career as a Barista in Huntington involves a combination of training, experience, and certifications:
- Education and Training: Programs such as the Marshall University Hospitality Management Program offer useful courses in hospitality, beverage service, and customer relations, providing a solid foundation for Baristas.
- Practical Skills Development: Mountwest Community & Technical College Culinary Arts Program provides hands-on training in food and beverage preparation, essential for Baristas.
- Certification: Earning the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrates knowledge of food safety practices.
- Specialty Barista Training: Obtaining the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification can further improve coffee-making skills and credibility.
- Work Experience: Gaining experience by working at local cafes or coffee shops helps build customer service skills and familiarity with various coffee machines and techniques.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Huntington
Several well-known employers in Huntington are actively hiring Baristas:
- Starbucks
- 7 Brew Coffee
- Books-A-Million Cafe
- Kroger Starbucks
Establishments That Baristas in Huntington Work At
Baristas in Huntington typically find positions in a variety of establishments including casual coffee shops, fast casual cafés, grocery store coffee bars, and specialty coffee shops.
The type of establishment significantly influences salary potential. Specialty coffee shops and premium cafés often offer higher wages and more tips compared to fast casual or grocery store settings.
Fast-paced or high-volume cafes may provide more opportunities for tips, while chain locations might provide more stable base pay with benefits.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Baristas
If you’re considering roles related to that of a Barista, several similar career paths may be of interest.
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, which share similar skills in beverage preparation and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Huntington
Baristas should stay informed about labor laws and taxation to protect their rights and understand their financial responsibilities.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for comprehensive federal labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific employment laws and resources, the West Virginia workforce website provides local guidance on labor standards and workers’ rights.