Barista Salary in Little-Rock, AR
Baristas in Little-Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $12.50 per hour, translating to about $500.00 per week, $2,166.67 per month, and $26,000.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Little-Rock is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled coffee professionals throughout the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Little-Rock, AR?
The salary of a Barista in Little-Rock can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of pay across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $23,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Baristas in Little-Rock Earn Tips?
Baristas typically earn tips as part of their income. They can expect to make an extra around $2 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Little-Rock vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which comes to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Little-Rock earn slightly less, making around $12.50 per hour and $26,000 annually. This difference reflects regional living costs and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little-Rock for Baristas
Nearby areas that offer higher pay for Baristas include:
- Jacksonville: $15.60 per hour
- Cabot: $15.60 per hour
For Baristas seeking higher wages, commuting to Jacksonville or Cabot could provide better earning opportunities compared to Little-Rock.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Little-Rock?
The salary of a Barista in Little-Rock can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Training: More experienced Baristas or those with specialized skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Coffee shops, upscale cafes, and high-traffic locations tend to pay more than fast-food outlets or small diners.
- Certifications: Holding certifications or completing barista training programs can elevate earning potential.
- Shift and Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts sometimes come with added compensation.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Little-Rock’s economic conditions and living costs help shape pay scales.
How To Become a Barista in Little-Rock
Launching a career as a Barista in Little-Rock involves several practical steps:
- Gain Barista Skills: Enroll in courses offered by Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Institute, which provides hands-on training in beverage management and barista techniques.
- Attend Workshops: University of Arkansas at Little Rock Community Education delivers workshops on coffee brewing and barista fundamentals, ideal for beginners.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety. Additionally, Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification demonstrates proficiency in essential barista techniques and coffee knowledge.
- Get Practical Experience: Working in entry-level roles at coffee shops helps build skills and can lead to advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Little-Rock
Several prominent employers in Little-Rock regularly seek skilled Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Target
- Local independent coffee shops
Establishments That Baristas in Little-Rock Work At
Baristas in Little-Rock typically find employment at various establishments, including:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These venues usually offer consistent hours with moderate pay, focused on quick service.
- Fast Casual Cafes: Often busier and may provide higher pay due to higher volume and tips.
- Independent Specialty Coffee Shops: These establishments tend to value skilled Baristas more and may offer higher wages and tips.
- Retail Chains (e.g., Starbucks, Target): Provide stable employment with benefits, though wages may be standardized.
The type of establishment can greatly affect hourly wages, tip income, and opportunities for career growth.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little-Rock for Baristas
If you are interested in roles similar to Barista, here are some related hospitality careers you might consider:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions, which involve beverage service and hospitality skills related to those required of Baristas.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Little-Rock
Baristas should understand the labor laws and tax requirements applicable in Little-Rock to ensure proper employment conditions.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor website for federal labor laws and regulations.
- For state-specific labor rules, see the Arkansas Department of Labor site.