Barista Salary in Kansas City, MO
Baristas in Kansas City, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $14.77 per hour, which translates to about $590.80 per week, $2,560.13 per month, and $30,721.60 per year.
The job demand for Baristas in Kansas City is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this field across the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Kansas City, MO?
The salary of a Barista in Kansas City varies based on experience and employer, but here is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $26,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.77 | $590.80 | $2,560.13 | $30,721.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.56 | $822.40 | $3,549.87 | $42,684.80 |
Do Baristas in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Kansas City typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. On average, a Barista can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income.
Barista Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.77 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,721.60 per year.
Baristas in Kansas City generally earn salaries very close to the national average, with hourly and yearly wages aligned with typical expectations across the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Baristas
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay for Baristas:
- Liberty: $14.97 per hour
- Kansas City: $14.77 per hour
Baristas working in Liberty enjoy marginally higher pay compared to those in Kansas City, MO.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Kansas City?
The salary of a Barista in Kansas City is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more experience or specialized skills, such as latte art or espresso machine proficiency, tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes can provide better pay compared to standard fast casual venues.
- Certifications: Completing recognized training programs or certifications can boost earnings and job prospects.
- Shift Timings: Baristas working early mornings, late nights, or weekends might receive shift differentials that increase pay.
- Local Demand and Economy: Economic conditions and demand for coffee culture in the area can affect wages.
How To Become a Barista in Kansas City
Becoming a successful Barista in Kansas City involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete Formal Training: Programs like the Barista Training Program at Kansas City Barista Academy offer comprehensive skills in coffee preparation, customer service, and equipment handling.
- Expand Knowledge: Taking courses such as Coffee Brewing Techniques at Johnson County Community College deepens understanding of brewing methods and bean selection.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning recognized qualifications like Certified Barista by Specialty Coffee Association or food safety licenses such as a Food Handler's Permit can improve employment opportunities.
- Gain Hands-On Experience: Working in cafes or coffee shops helps develop practical skills and customer interaction.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Kansas City
Several notable employers in Kansas City actively seek skilled Baristas:
- Morrison Healthcare
- Saint Luke's Health System
- Starbucks
- The Roasterie
- Hy-Vee
Establishments That Baristas in Kansas City Work At
Baristas in Kansas City typically work in various food and beverage establishments including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These venues often offer the highest pay due to skilled coffee preparation and personalized service.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Salaries here may be moderate, with some opportunity for tips depending on customer interaction.
- Healthcare Facilities: Cafés within hospitals or healthcare systems may offer stable employment and benefits but usually modest wages.
- Retail Chains and Grocery Stores: These workplaces have standardized pay scales, often offering entry-level opportunities.
The type of establishment impacts not only salary but also opportunities for tips and career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Baristas
If you are exploring options related to being a Barista, here are some similar roles you might consider:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Backwaiter positions, which have related hospitality duties and offer different salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Kansas City
Baristas should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper adherence while working:
- Missouri state labor regulations are available on the labor.mo.gov website, offering guidance on wages, working hours, and employment rights.
- Federal labor laws and employment standards can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.