Barista Salary in Lexington, KY
Baristas in Lexington, KY, in 2025, earn approximately $12.95 per hour, which translates to about $518.00 per week, $2,244.67 per month, and $26,936.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Lexington is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy outlook and increasing opportunities in the coffee service industry locally.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Lexington, KY?
The salary of a Barista in Lexington can vary based on experience level and the venue they work at. The table below shows typical earnings from entry-level through top earners in the area.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.16 | $366.40 | $1,583.47 | $19,052.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.95 | $518.00 | $2,244.67 | $26,936.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.29 | $731.60 | $3,172.93 | $38,003.20 |
Do Baristas in Lexington Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Lexington commonly earn tips, which can supplement their base pay significantly. On average, a Barista might earn approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Lexington vs. National Average
On a national level, Baristas earn about $14.50 per hour on average, which corresponds to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Baristas in Lexington earn a bit less, with an average of $12.95 per hour and $26,936 annually. This variance likely reflects differences in local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lexington for Baristas
When considering nearby areas and their pay rates for Baristas, here is how Lexington compares:
- Lexington-Fayette: $14.41 per hour
- Lexington: $12.95 per hour
Baristas working in the larger Lexington-Fayette area may find slightly higher wages than those within Lexington proper.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Lexington?
A number of factors can impact the salary a Barista might earn in Lexington:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with skills such as latte art or knowledge of specialty coffees often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale cafes or popular chains can result in better pay and more tips compared to smaller, independent coffee shops.
- Shift Timing: Baristas working peak morning shifts or weekends may receive shift differentials or more tips.
- Certifications and Training: Holding certifications like those offered by the Specialty Coffee Association can boost prospects and salary.
- Customer Volume and Location: Busy downtown cafes in high-traffic areas tend to pay and tip more than those in quieter neighborhoods.
How To Become a Barista in Lexington
Starting a career as a Barista in Lexington involves gaining the right training and experience to stand out.
- Formal Training Programs: Enroll in programs such as the Barista Training Program at Bluegrass Community and Technical College for comprehensive coffee preparation and customer service skills.
- Workshops: Attend local workshops like the Coffee Brewing Techniques Workshop at Coffee Times Coffee House to sharpen advanced brewing and latte art abilities.
- Certifications: Pursue certifications including the Certified Barista by Specialty Coffee Association which is globally recognized for barista expertise.
- Compliance: Obtain a Food Handler's Permit, which is required by Kentucky law for food service employees to ensure safe food handling.
- Gain Experience: Seek part-time roles at coffee shops to build your skills and learn customer interaction.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Lexington
Some of the prominent employers in Lexington that often hire Baristas include:
- Starbucks
- University of Kentucky
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Morrison Healthcare
- Macy's
Establishments That Baristas in Lexington Work At
Baristas in Lexington typically find employment in a variety of establishments including casual coffee shops, fast-casual cafes, and larger chain coffeehouses.
The type of establishment can significantly affect salary and tips. For example, working at a busy chain coffeehouse like Starbucks might offer steady wages and consistent tips, while independent specialty cafes might offer opportunities to earn higher tips from passionate coffee enthusiasts.
Fast-casual retailers and businesses within university campuses may offer different wage structures but provide access to high customer traffic, which can boost tip income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lexington for Baristas
If you're interested in roles related to that of a Barista, consider these similar careers in the hospitality sector:
These positions include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, each sharing overlapping skills with the Barista role and offering different salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Lexington
Baristas in Lexington should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and responsibilities fully.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive guidance.
- The Kentucky Career Center offers state-specific employment and labor resources.
- Check the Official website of Lexington, KY for local government services and information.