Barista Salary in Jersey City, NJ
Baristas in Jersey City, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $16.66 per hour, which translates to about $666.40 per week, $2,887.73 per month, and $34,652.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Jersey City is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the coffee and hospitality industry in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Jersey City, NJ?
The salary of a Barista in Jersey City varies by experience level and skills. Here’s an overview of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay at different stages of their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,512.53 | $30,142.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.66 | $666.40 | $2,887.73 | $34,652.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.63 | $825.20 | $3,558.67 | $42,870.40 |
Do Baristas in Jersey City Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips in addition to their base salary. Depending on the establishment, Baristas can earn approximately an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly enhance their overall income.
Barista Salary in Jersey City vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average hourly wage of $15.55 and about $32,344 annually.
Compared to the national figures, Baristas in Jersey City, NJ, earn a slightly higher hourly wage of $16.66 and an annual salary of $34,652.80. This reflects Jersey City's higher cost of living and vibrant coffee scene.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jersey City for Baristas
The following nearby locations offer competitive salaries for Baristas:
- Edgewater: $19.19 per hour
- Hoboken: $17.27 per hour
Edgewater tends to be the highest-paying area near Jersey City for Baristas, offering significantly more per hour compared to the city itself.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Jersey City?
Several key factors influence a Barista’s salary in Jersey City:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee preparation and latte art skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Baristas working in specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes generally earn more than those in fast food or convenience store locations.
- Certifications and Training: Obtaining certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Skills Certification can boost pay.
- Shift Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with premium pay rates or more tips.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Jersey City's vibrant economy and higher cost of living contribute to increased pay rates for Baristas.
How To Become a Barista in Jersey City
Starting a career as a Barista in Jersey City involves several important steps:
- Complete Barista Training: Programs like the Barista Training Program at Joe Coffee Company and Counter Culture Coffee's Barista Training in nearby New York City provide hands-on experience in espresso techniques, milk steaming, and customer service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety standards required for handling beverages and food items.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: Pursuing the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification can demonstrate expertise to potential employers.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting with entry-level coffee shop jobs helps develop proficiency and customer interaction skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Jersey City
Some of the notable employers seeking Baristas in Jersey City include:
- Restaurant Associates
- Aramark
- Starbucks
Establishments That Baristas in Jersey City Work At
Baristas in Jersey City typically find employment across a range of establishment types:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Offer higher wages due to skill requirements in coffee preparation and customer service.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Cafés: Provide steady work but often at lower salary ranges compared to specialty shops.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Larger establishments may offer better benefits and higher salary rates.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Such as Starbucks, provide uniform pay scales and opportunities for tips and advancement.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Barista’s earning potential with specialty venues generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jersey City for Baristas
If you are interested in careers similar to Barista, consider these related occupations, which also involve working in the hospitality and beverage service industry.
These include Barback, Bartender, and Cashier positions, each with distinct roles but related skill requirements and working environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Jersey City
Baristas working in Jersey City should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- For state labor laws and regulations, visit the State of New Jersey's official website.
- Federal labor laws and employment information can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.