Barista Salary in Oxnard, CA
Baristas in Oxnard, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.08 per hour, which translates to about $843.20 per week, $3,653.87 per month, and $43,846.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Oxnard is growing steadily at about 6% per year, reflecting a favorable job market and increasing interest in coffee culture and specialty beverages in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Oxnard, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Oxnard can vary depending on experience and employer type, but the general pay structure across experience levels is as follows.
| 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) | $21.08 | $843.20 | $3,653.87 | $43,846.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.95 | $1,198.00 | $5,183.33 | $62,296.00 |
Do Baristas in Oxnard Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Oxnard typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can add a significant amount to their income, often around $5 to $10 per hour during busy shifts, substantially boosting overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Oxnard vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.60 per hour, which translates to approximately $32,448 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Oxnard earn a higher hourly wage of $21.08 and an annual salary of $43,846.40, reflecting the cost of living and demand in the Oxnard region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oxnard for Baristas
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Baristas:
- Downtown Oxnard: $22.50 per hour
- RiverPark: $23.00 per hour
Baristas working in RiverPark tend to earn slightly more than those in Downtown Oxnard, though both areas offer strong pay relative to the city overall.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Oxnard?
Several factors can influence how much a Barista earns in Oxnard:
- Experience Level: Baristas with more years of experience or advanced coffee-making skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Skill Set: Mastery of espresso techniques, latte art, and customer service excellence can lead to raises and promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or high-end cafes often pays more than chain coffee outlets or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Baristas working peak hours or overnight shifts may receive shift differentials or higher tips.
- Location: Proximity to high-traffic commercial areas or affluent neighborhoods can boost earnings.
How To Become a Barista in Oxnard
Starting a career as a Barista in Oxnard involves several steps to gain the skills and certifications needed:
- Enroll in Barista Training Program at Oxnard College: This program covers coffee brewing techniques, customer service, and equipment maintenance, providing a solid foundation.
- Complete Coffee House Management Course at Ventura County Community College: If interested in advancement, this course teaches inventory management, staff supervision, and business operations.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: Required by California law, this certification ensures compliance with safety and hygiene standards.
- Earn Barista Certification by Specialty Coffee Association: A respected credential that validates professional skills in coffee preparation and service.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Oxnard
Several prominent employers in Oxnard are frequently hiring Baristas, including:
- Starbucks
- Vons
- Albertsons
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Peet's Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Oxnard Work At
Baristas in Oxnard typically find work in a variety of establishments, which can impact their earnings:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Often provide the highest wages and best tipping opportunities due to a premium coffee market.
- Chain Cafes: Such as Starbucks or Peet's Coffee, offer steady employment with standard wage scales and regular tips.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Employ Baristas at in-store cafes with competitive but usually lower wages.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These places may offer moderate pay and fewer tipping opportunities.
The type of establishment plays a key role in determining the total compensation including both salary and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oxnard for Baristas
If you're considering careers similar to Barista, here are a few related roles you might explore:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions, all of which involve beverage preparation and customer engagement in hospitality settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Oxnard
Understanding labor laws and taxation is important for Baristas in Oxnard to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide employment standards and rights.
- The California state website for labor laws and workplace regulations provides details specific to state requirements, including minimum wage and overtime.
- For local rules and business resources, visit the Local city website for business regulations and resources.
