Barista Salary in Lowell, MA
Baristas in Lowell, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.31 per hour, which translates to about $692.40 per week, $3,000.40 per month, and $36,004.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Lowell is growing positively at about 9% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled coffee professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Lowell, MA?
The salary of a Barista in Lowell varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Here's a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.14 | $645.60 | $2,792.40 | $33,510.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.31 | $692.40 | $3,000.40 | $36,004.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.56 | $742.40 | $3,215.73 | $38,595.20 |
Do Baristas in Lowell Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Lowell typically earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. On average, they can expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Lowell vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Lowell earn noticeably more, with an average hourly wage of $17.31 and a yearly income around $36,004.80. This difference can be attributed to the local cost of living and demand in the Lowell area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lowell for Baristas
Looking at nearby neighborhoods, Barista wages in some areas near Lowell are as follows:
- Downtown Lowell: $17.50 per hour
- Belvidere: $17.80 per hour
Both Downtown Lowell and Belvidere offer competitive wages slightly above the city average, reflecting their busy commercial activity and customer traffic.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Lowell?
Several factors can influence how much a Barista earns in Lowell:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with expert coffee-making skills tend to earn higher wages and have better tipping potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end coffee shops, specialty cafes, and chains often pay more than small independent shops or fast food outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Baristas with professional certifications, such as the Barista Guild of America Certification, may command better pay.
- Shift Hours and Workload: Working busy shifts or flexible hours can sometimes lead to higher earnings or bonus tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Barista in Lowell
Starting a career as a Barista in Lowell involves several practical steps:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the Middlesex Community College Culinary Arts Program offer courses including barista training to prepare you for the field.
- Gain Hospitality Education: The UMass Lowell Hospitality and Tourism Management Program provides foundational skills, including beverage service and coffee preparation.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required for employment to ensure safe handling of food and beverages.
- Obtain Professional Barista Certification: The Barista Guild of America Certification validates your expertise and can enhance employment prospects and salary.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Lowell
Some of the leading employers looking for skilled Baristas in Lowell include:
- Starbucks
- Aramark
- Eggroll Cafe
Establishments That Baristas in Lowell Work At
Baristas in Lowell commonly work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Coffee Shops and Cafes: Specialty and chain coffee shops offer competitive wages and often a lively work environment.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues may have a high volume of customers but often pay slightly less than dedicated coffee shops.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Larger operations might offer higher salaries and benefits due to the scale and demand.
- Casual Dining Establishments: These may employ Baristas as part of broader food and beverage services, with varied pay structures.
Where you work can significantly impact your earning potential, with specialty coffee shops typically offering the best wages and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lowell for Baristas
If you're interested in similar jobs in hospitality, here are a few careers related to the Barista role:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager roles, each offering different levels of responsibility and salary potential in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Lowell
Baristas in Lowell should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work:
- Visit the Massachusetts government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws, minimum wage, working hours, and employee rights.
- For federal labor regulations and employee protections, see the U.S. Department of Labor website.