Barista Salary in Missoula, MT
Baristas in Missoula, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $13.69 per hour, which translates to about $547.60 per week, $2,372.93 per month, and $28,475.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Missoula is growing positively at about 6% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities in local coffee shops and growing café culture.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Missoula, MT?
The salary of a Barista in Missoula varies depending on experience level and the venue, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.65 | $466.00 | $2,016.67 | $24,232.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.69 | $547.60 | $2,372.93 | $28,475.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.09 | $643.60 | $2,779.73 | $33,507.20 |
Do Baristas in Missoula Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips on top of their base salary. Tips can add approximately $2 to $5 per hour depending on the establishment's foot traffic and customer generosity, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Missoula vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.55 per hour and make approximately $32,344 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Missoula earn a bit less, with an average hourly rate of $13.69 and a yearly salary near $28,475.
This difference is often due to the lower cost of living in Missoula and varying market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Missoula for Baristas
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Baristas include:
- Downtown Missoula: $14.50 per hour
- University District: $14.00 per hour
Baristas working Downtown tend to earn the highest wages regionally, possibly due to busier locations and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Missoula?
Several key factors influence a Barista’s salary in Missoula:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with refined espresso and coffee-making techniques generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end coffee shops and well-known chains often offer better pay and benefits compared to smaller cafés or fast-food outlets.
- Certifications and Training: Baristas with certifications such as the Barista Guild of America Certification may have better earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working early mornings or late shifts can lead to shift differentials or higher tips.
- Local Economic Factors: The client's ability to tip and regional cost of living also affect compensation levels.
How To Become a Barista in Missoula
To become a successful Barista in Missoula, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Training Programs: Local options like the Missoula College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable courses in beverage preparation and customer service, tailored for aspiring Baristas.
- Attend Workshops: Participating in initiatives such as Zootown Barista Training helps develop skills in espresso techniques and latte art.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Credentials like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required by employers and ensure proper hygiene practices.
- Acquire Professional Certification: Advanced training such as the Barista Guild of America Certification can enhance job prospects and salary.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Missoula
Some of the major employers currently hiring Baristas in Missoula include:
- Starbucks
- Providence St. Patrick Hospital
- Mazevo Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Missoula Work At
Baristas find work in a variety of establishments, which influences their earnings:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These tend to offer moderate wages and rely heavily on tips.
- Fast Casual Cafés: These often provide steady hours with competitive base pay and some benefits.
- Specialty and Artisan Coffeehouses: These venues usually offer higher pay due to the expertise required and often more premium pricing.
- Hotels and Hospitals: These tend to have consistent schedules and often pay better wages but may yield fewer tipping opportunities.
The type of establishment affects total compensation — premium venues tend to pay better but might require higher skills and certifications.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Missoula for Baristas
For those interested in similar careers to Barista, consider these related roles which offer overlapping skills and career advancement options:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Cashier roles, which share customer service and beverage preparation skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Missoula
Baristas in Missoula should be familiar with relevant federal, state, and local labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper handling of earnings.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal regulations.
- State-specific rules can be found on the Montana Department of Labor and Industry website.
- Local labor regulations and resources are available at the Missoula County official website.