Barista Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Baristas in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $13.75 per hour, which translates to about $550.00 per week, $2,383.33 per month, and $28,600.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Lees-Summit is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for this profession in the local coffee and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Barista in Lees-Summit depends on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings at different stages of a Barista career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Baristas in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Baristas typically earn tips in many establishments. In Lees-Summit, a Barista can expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and customer volume, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average hourly wage of about $15.63, which comes to roughly $32,510.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Lees-Summit earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $13.75 and annual salary of $28,600.00. This difference is influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Baristas
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Baristas:
- Downtown: $14.50 per hour
- Lakewood: $14.00 per hour
Baristas commuting to Downtown can expect higher hourly pay compared to Lakewood, with Lees-Summit itself offering competitive wages within the region.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Several key factors can influence how much a Barista earns in Lees-Summit:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in busy cafes or specialty coffee shops typically results in better pay and more tips compared to chain coffee shops.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can improve earning potential.
- Shift Times and Hours: Working peak hours or weekends may come with shift differentials or more tip opportunities.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Lees-Summit's market dynamics and economic conditions also shape wages.
How To Become a Barista in Lees-Summit
Starting a career as a Barista in Lees-Summit involves a combination of training and practical experience:
- Enroll in Training Programs: Programs like the Barista Training Program at Metropolitan Community College provide comprehensive instruction on coffee preparation, customer service, and equipment maintenance.
- Attend Workshops: The Coffee Brewing Techniques Workshop at Kansas City Barista Academy focuses on advanced brewing and espresso skills to enhance your craft.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for working safely in food service environments.
- Earn Industry Certifications: International credentials like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification demonstrate professional proficiency.
- Gain Experience: Work in local coffee shops to build experience and improve customer interaction skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Lees-Summit
The following employers are among the prominent companies in Lees-Summit looking to hire skilled Baristas:
- Starbucks
- 7Brew Coffee
- Love Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Lees-Summit Work At
Baristas in Lees-Summit are employed across a range of establishments, including:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These provide a friendly environment with steady customers and moderate pay.
- Specialty and Artisan Cafes: Such venues often offer higher wages and opportunities for tips due to quality focus.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Baristas here serve a combination of coffee and light meals; pay varies based on location.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Larger chains provide consistent work environments though wages may be standardized.
The type of establishment affects pay, with specialty coffee shops generally offering the best pay and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Baristas
If you're interested in exploring careers similar to Barista, consider related roles such as:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, roles that share hospitality industry traits with Baristas and provide alternative career paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Lees-Summit
Understanding local labor laws and tax obligations is important for Baristas working in Lees-Summit.
- Information on Missouri labor laws can be found at the Missouri Department of Labor website.
- Federal employment laws and regulations are accessible on the U.S. Department of Labor website.