Barista Salary in Norman, OK
Baristas in Norman, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $12.81 per hour, which translates to about $512.40 per week, $2,220.40 per month, and $26,644.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Norman is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this field in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Norman, OK?
The salary of a Barista in Norman can vary depending on experience and specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.16 | $406.40 | $1,760.53 | $21,126.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.81 | $512.40 | $2,220.40 | $26,644.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.17 | $646.80 | $2,804.40 | $33,753.60 |
Do Baristas in Norman Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can supplement their income by approximately $5 to $15 per shift, depending on the establishment and customer flow, making tips an important part of a Barista's total earnings in Norman.
Barista Salary in Norman vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Norman earn slightly less with an average hourly wage of $12.81, or $26,644.80 annually. This difference reflects local cost of living and market demand factors in the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Norman for Baristas
Baristas working in specific neighborhoods near Norman, OK, can expect the following hourly wages:
- Downtown Norman: $13.50 per hour
- University Area: $13.00 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher pay than the general Norman average, reflecting localized demand and customer base differences.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Norman?
Several factors contribute to how much a Barista can earn in Norman:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Baristas who master advanced coffee preparation techniques and customer service can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end coffee shops and specialty cafes typically pay more compared to fast food or chain coffee outlets.
- Tips and Customer Volume: Busy locations with larger customer bases provide more opportunity for earning tips.
- Certifications: Having certifications like the SCA Barista Skills Certification can boost credibility and pay.
- Shift Timing: Working popular hours or weekends may come with shift differentials or better tip opportunities.
How To Become a Barista in Norman
Becoming a Barista in Norman involves developing both practical skills and certifications relevant to the role. Here are some key steps:
- Complete barista training programs such as the Barista Training Program at Oklahoma City Community College, covering coffee preparation techniques, customer service, and equipment handling.
- Participate in advanced workshops like the Coffee Brewing Techniques Workshop at Norman Coffee Institute to refine brewing methods and latte art skills.
- Obtain necessary food safety certifications, including the Cleveland County Food Handlers Permit to ensure compliance with local health regulations.
- Consider internationally recognized certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association's Barista Skills Certification to enhance career prospects.
- Gain experience by working in local coffee shops and focusing on excellent customer service and beverage quality.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Norman
Norman has several prominent employers that frequently hire Baristas, including:
- Starbucks
- The Red Cup
- Coffee Slingers
Establishments That Baristas in Norman Work At
Baristas in Norman typically find employment in a range of establishments such as casual coffee shops, fast casual cafes, specialty coffeehouses, and some restaurants.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salary levels; for example, specialty coffeehouses often pay higher wages and provide better tip opportunities compared to fast casual or chain coffee shops.
Additionally, cafes in busy shopping districts or university areas may offer more robust earning potential due to higher customer traffic and tipping volume.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Norman for Baristas
If you are considering roles related to being a Barista, you might also be interested in these similar positions:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista itself as related roles in the hospitality industry with overlapping skill sets and opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Norman
Baristas in Norman should be aware of both state and federal labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights and responsibilities.
- For information regarding Oklahoma state labor laws and regulations, you can visit the Official website of the State of Oklahoma.
- For federal labor laws, wage standards, and workplace regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website is an excellent resource.