Barista Salary in Palm Bay, FL
Baristas in Palm Bay, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.16 per hour, which translates to about $766.40 per week, $3,321.07 per month, and $39,852.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Palm Bay is growing significantly at about 36% per year, showing a strong upward trend in the job market for coffee service professionals in this region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Palm Bay, FL?
The salary of a Barista in Palm Bay can vary depending on experience and employer, but here's a breakdown of typical earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.90 | $676.00 | $2,923.33 | $35,152.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.16 | $766.40 | $3,321.07 | $39,852.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.72 | $868.80 | $3,736.80 | $44,985.60 |
Do Baristas in Palm Bay Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Palm Bay typically earn tips in addition to their base wages. It is common for Baristas to earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Palm Bay vs. National Average
On a national level, Baristas earn an average of approximately $15.45 per hour, which amounts to about $32,136 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Palm Bay earn a higher hourly and annual wage, reflecting the region’s competitive coffee scene and rising demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Palm Bay for Baristas
Nearby locations with notable Barista salaries include:
- Melbourne: $17.00 per hour
- Cocoa Beach: $16.50 per hour
This data shows Palm Bay offers some of the highest pay rates for Baristas in the surrounding area.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Palm Bay?
Several factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Palm Bay:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills or knowledge of specialty drinks usually earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end coffee shops or specialty cafes often leads to higher wages compared to fast food or chain outlets.
- Certifications: Holding barista certifications can improve earnings and job prospects.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts might offer premium pay or additional tips.
- Local Demand: High demand for quality coffee service in Palm Bay drives wages upward for skilled Baristas.
How To Become a Barista in Palm Bay
Becoming a successful Barista in Palm Bay involves several important steps:
- Complete Barista Training: Programs like Brevard Adult Education Barista Training provide specialized skills useful for this role.
- Acquire Culinary Knowledge: Courses such as the Eastern Florida State College Culinary Arts Program include barista training to build a strong foundation.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and enhance credibility.
- Consider Industry Certification: The Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification is recognized in the field and can boost employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Hands-on work in cafes helps develop customer service and coffee preparation skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Palm Bay
Some of the main employers recruiting Baristas in Palm Bay include:
- Starbucks
- Dunkin'
- Barnes & Noble Café
Establishments That Baristas in Palm Bay Work At
Baristas in Palm Bay typically work across:
- Casual Cafes and Coffee Shops: These provide a steady flow of customers and often include tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual and Chain Outlets: Popular chains like Starbucks and Dunkin' may offer consistent hours but sometimes lower base pay.
- Bookstore Cafés and Specialty Venues: Places like Barnes & Noble Café may combine retail with coffee service, sometimes offering higher salaries due to mixed work responsibilities.
Salary can vary significantly depending on the establishment’s prestige, customer volume, and the Barista’s responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Palm Bay for Baristas
If you are interested in exploring similar roles within hospitality, consider these careers:
These related jobs include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, roles that share customer service and beverage preparation elements with Baristas.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Palm Bay
Baristas working in Palm Bay should be aware of relevant employment laws and tax rules to protect their rights and manage earnings.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive labor laws and employment information.
- The Florida Jobs official site offers state-specific resources on employment services and labor market information.