Barista Salary in Jacksonville, FL
Baristas in Jacksonville, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $16.61 per hour, which translates to about $664.40 per week, $2,879.07 per month, and $34,548.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Jacksonville is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled coffee professionals as the coffee culture and cafe industries expand in the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Jacksonville, FL?
The salary of a Barista in Jacksonville varies based on experience and location within the city. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.61 | $664.40 | $2,879.07 | $34,548.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.72 | $868.80 | $3,744.00 | $44,976.00 |
Do Baristas in Jacksonville Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Jacksonville typically earn tips on top of their base pay. Tips can add an estimated $1 to $3 per hour, depending on the location and customer volume. This can significantly boost overall earnings for many Baristas, especially in busy coffee shops and upscale cafés.
Barista Salary in Jacksonville vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.50 per hour, which sums up to about $32,240 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Jacksonville earn slightly more at about $16.61 per hour and $34,548.80 annually.
This difference can be influenced by Jacksonville’s local cost of living and the expanding coffee scene in the city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jacksonville for Baristas
Looking at nearby areas within Jacksonville, coffee professionals can expect variations in pay:
- Downtown Jacksonville: Approximately $17.50 per hour
- San Marco: Around $17.00 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Jacksonville tend to earn the highest wages, reflecting the area's bustling business and hospitality sectors.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Jacksonville?
Several factors play a crucial role in determining how much a Barista can earn in Jacksonville, FL:
- Experience and Skill Level: Seasoned Baristas with advanced latte art skills and knowledge of specialty coffee often command higher wages.
- Type of Coffee Establishment: High-end cafés and specialty roasters generally pay more than fast-food chains or convenience stores.
- Location Within the City: Areas with higher customer traffic and more tourism, like Downtown Jacksonville and San Marco, tend to offer higher wages.
- Shift Timing: Some Baristas may earn extra pay for early morning, late-night, or weekend shifts.
- Certifications and Training: Additional credentials may increase earning potential.
How To Become a Barista in Jacksonville
Becoming a Barista in Jacksonville involves building specific skills and often pursuing targeted training programs.
- Complete Formal Barista Training: Programs such as the Barista Training Program at Florida State College at Jacksonville provide hands-on experience in coffee preparation and customer service.
- Obtain Specialized Certifications: Certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification Courses and the SCA Barista Skills Certification are highly valued in the industry.
- Acquire Required Food Safety Permits: Holding a Food Handler's Permit, as mandated by Florida state regulations, ensures compliance with food safety standards.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting as a Barista assistant or in an entry-level role helps build practical knowledge and customer interaction skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Jacksonville
Jacksonville offers a range of opportunities for Baristas at several prominent companies:
- FLIK Hospitality Group
- Morrison Healthcare
- Starbucks
Establishments That Baristas in Jacksonville Work At
Baristas in Jacksonville find employment in a variety of settings, including:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These establishments typically have standard wage scales but may offer steady hours.
- Fast Casual Chains: Fast-paced environments often pay moderate wages with potential for tips.
- Specialty Coffeehouses: High-end cafés focusing on craft coffee tend to offer higher wages and opportunities for tips and skill development.
- Hotels and Catering: Baristas working in hotels or healthcare institutions may have additional benefits and varied pay structures.
The type of establishment influences not only base wages but also tip opportunities and work conditions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jacksonville for Baristas
If you're exploring options beyond Barista roles, several related positions involve similar skills and environments.
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions which leverage overlapping abilities in beverage preparation and hospitality management.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Jacksonville
Baristas in Jacksonville should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper compliance and protection.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and employment standards.
- The State of Florida's official site provides specific information on state labor regulations affecting employment.
- For localized resources and employment guidance, consult the City of Jacksonville’s official website.