Barista Salary in Minneapolis, MN
Baristas in Minneapolis, MN, in 2026, earn approximately $16.34 per hour, which translates to about $653.60 per week, $2,832.27 per month, and $33,987.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Minneapolis is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this role in the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Minneapolis, MN?
The salary of a Barista in Minneapolis varies by experience, but here is a general breakdown across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.97 | $638.80 | $2,764.27 | $33,185.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.34 | $653.60 | $2,832.27 | $33,987.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.44 | $817.60 | $3,519.47 | $42,515.20 |
Do Baristas in Minneapolis Earn Tips?
Baristas usually earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. On average, they may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Barista Salary in Minneapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.55 per hour, which amounts to roughly $32,344 per year.
In comparison, Baristas in Minneapolis make slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $16.34 and a yearly salary of around $33,987.
This marginal increase reflects regional cost of living and the demand for skilled Baristas in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Minneapolis for Baristas
If you're looking at areas near Minneapolis, here's how the Barista salaries stack up:
- Minneapolis-Saint Paul: $23.75 per hour
- Minnetonka: $17.87 per hour
These variations imply that working in Minneapolis-Saint Paul offers significantly higher pay for Baristas compared to nearby areas.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Minneapolis?
Several factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Minneapolis:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making knowledge tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Premium coffee shops or specialty cafes usually pay more than fast-food chains or small local cafés.
- Certification and Training: Completing recognized training or certifications can improve a Barista’s earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays might provide higher pay rates.
- Tips: Since tips form a significant portion of income, busy or upscale locations might provide greater tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Barista in Minneapolis
Starting a career as a Barista can be straightforward but obtaining training can substantially improve your prospects and salary:
- Learn Basic Barista Skills: Taking courses such as the Basic Barista Course by The Knowledge Academy can provide foundational knowledge of espresso preparation and milk texturing.
- Professional Coffee Training: The Counter Culture Coffee Training Center offers in-depth professional development courses, including Barista Fundamentals and Brewing Science.
- Get Certified: Earning certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification validates your expertise globally.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrates your understanding of food safety, which employers value.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Minneapolis
Minneapolis hosts several well-known companies actively recruiting skilled Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Caribou Coffee
- Spyhouse Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Minneapolis Work At
Baristas typically find roles in a variety of settings, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often offer higher wages and require advanced coffee knowledge.
- Casual Cafés: These may offer stable employment with moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service Restaurants: These tend to pay less but may offer more flexible hours.
The type of establishment can strongly influence the compensation and opportunities for tips available to a Barista.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Minneapolis for Baristas
If you’re interested in similar roles to that of a Barista, consider the following related careers:
These roles include Bartender, Barback, and other Food Service positions that require customer interaction and beverage preparation skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Minneapolis
Baristas in Minneapolis should be mindful of local labor laws and tax regulations to fully understand their employment rights and obligations.
- Information on Minnesota's labor laws is available at the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (state website).
- For federal employment and labor statistics, check the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (federal website).