Barista Salary in Ontario, CA
Baristas in Ontario, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.36 per hour, which translates to about $774.40 per week, $3,355.73 per month, and $40,268.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Ontario is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market outlook for this role in the coming years.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Ontario, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Ontario varies based on experience and the employer. Below is a breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.36 | $774.40 | $3,355.73 | $40,268.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.48 | $859.20 | $3,714.13 | $44,509.60 |
Do Baristas in Ontario Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Ontario typically earn tips. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall earnings depending on the establishment and customer generosity.
Barista Salary in Ontario vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.56 per hour, which equates to roughly $32,364.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Ontario earn considerably more, with an average hourly rate of $19.36 and yearly pay of $40,268.80. This higher pay reflects the local cost of living and demand for skilled Baristas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Ontario for Baristas
Among surrounding areas near Ontario, the following locations offer higher pay rates for Baristas:
- Downtown Ontario: $20.25 per hour
- Ontario Mills: $22.99 per hour
Baristas working in Ontario Mills, in particular, can benefit from the highest pay rates in the region, reflecting the busy commercial environment there.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Ontario?
Several factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Ontario, CA:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills often receive higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale cafes or specialty coffee shops usually offers better pay than fast-food chains or standard coffee shops.
- Customer Service Skills: Baristas who excel at customer interaction might earn more due to tips and better job opportunities.
- Shift Timings: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes carry shift differentials increasing the pay.
- Certifications: Specialized certifications can enhance earning potential by proving expertise.
How To Become a Barista in Ontario
Becoming a successful Barista in Ontario involves several steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete a Barista Training Program: Programs like the Barista Training Program at Chaffey College provide comprehensive instruction on coffee brewing, equipment use, and customer service.
- Consider Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at San Bernardino Valley College also offers relevant training in beverage preparation and service skills helpful for Baristas.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure adherence to food handling and sanitation standards.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification is an internationally recognized credential that validates professional coffee-making skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Ontario
Some of the top employers looking for Baristas in the Ontario area include:
- Starbucks
- Milksha Ontario Mills
- Gregorys Coffee - GC61
Establishments That Baristas in Ontario Work At
Baristas in Ontario commonly work within various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Coffee Shops: Usually provide steady work and average pay, ideal for those gaining experience.
- Specialty and Artisan Coffee Cafes: These offer higher wages reflecting the advanced skills and customer experience delivered.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Baristas here may work alongside food service teams with wages varying by company.
- Mall Kiosks and Retail Coffee Counters: These locations often have high customer volume, offering good tip opportunities.
The type of establishment can significantly affect the salary and tip income a Barista receives in Ontario.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Ontario for Baristas
If you're exploring career paths related to Baristas, consider these similar hospitality roles:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and fellow Barista positions, which require related skills in beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Ontario
Baristas should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws to ensure proper working conditions and compliance.
- For comprehensive federal labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California-specific labor laws and workplace regulations can be found on the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Local employment information and ordinances for Ontario are available at the Ontario city government website.