Barista Salary in Oak Park, IL
Baristas in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.29 per hour, which translates to about $691.60 per week, $2,996.93 per month, and $35,963.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Oak Park is positive, with a growth rate of 6% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities in this lively coffee culture.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary of a Barista in Oak Park varies based on experience and employer, but the following table outlines typical earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.45 | $578.00 | $2,500.67 | $30,008.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.29 | $691.60 | $2,996.93 | $35,963.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.70 | $828.00 | $3,570.00 | $42,960.00 |
Do Baristas in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Baristas commonly earn tips which can significantly supplement their income. On average, they can make an extra $3 to $7 per hour in tips depending on the location and customer traffic.
Barista Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.15 per hour and $31,512 per year.
Baristas in Oak Park earn slightly higher wages, at around $17.29 per hour and $35,963.20 annually, reflecting the area's cost of living and vibrant coffee culture.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Baristas
If you're willing to consider nearby areas, compensation can differ slightly:
- Downtown Oak Park: $17.50 per hour
- South Oak Park: $16.80 per hour
Baristas in Downtown Oak Park tend to earn a bit more than those in South Oak Park, likely due to higher customer volume and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Oak Park?
Several important factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Oak Park:
- Experience and Skills: Baristas proficient in espresso preparation, latte art, and customer engagement often receive higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working in specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes generally offers better compensation than fast casual or chain coffee retailers.
- Certifications: Certifications, such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification, can enhance earning potential.
- Work Hours and Shift Differentials: Evening and weekend shifts may come with additional pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Oak Park’s demand for quality coffee experiences and its living costs contribute to salary levels.
How To Become a Barista in Oak Park
Becoming a Barista in Oak Park involves developing skills, gaining experience, and often pursuing certifications:
- Complete Barista Training Programs: Options like the Metropolis Coffee Company Barista Training and Intelligentsia Coffee Training Lab provide hands-on education in espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service.
- Earn Certifications: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification validates your competency, while the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of food safety required in many establishments.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level coffee roles or assisting experienced Baristas helps you learn the trade quickly.
- Network Locally: Participating in Oak Park's coffee community events and workshops can open job opportunities.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Oak Park
Several prominent employers in Oak Park regularly look for skilled Baristas, including:
- Starbucks
- Léa French Street Food
- One Off Hospitality Group
Establishments That Baristas in Oak Park Work At
Baristas typically find work in a variety of settings:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These workplaces often pay higher wages and emphasize craft coffee skills.
- Fast Casual and Chain Coffee Shops: Expect steady hours but typically lower pay than specialty outlets.
- Restaurants and Cafés: Baristas working in these venues might have additional duties and may earn more based on tips and experience.
- Food Trucks and Market Stands: These can be seasonal or part-time with varied wage scales.
The type of establishment influences not only the salary but also the opportunity to develop skills or earn tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Baristas
If you're exploring career options related to Barista roles, consider these similar jobs:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista, roles that share skills in beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Oak Park
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Baristas working in Oak Park.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- The Illinois Department of Employment Security provides resources on employment laws and job opportunities in Illinois.
- Local employment resources and community information can be found at the Village of Oak Park official website.