Barista Salary in Pearl City, HI
Baristas in Pearl City, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $12.98 per hour, which translates to about $519.20 per week, $2,249.87 per month, and $26,998.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Pearl City is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities and an expanding coffee culture in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Pearl City, HI?
Salaries for Baristas in Pearl City vary depending on their level of experience and expertise. Here's a breakdown of average earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.35 | $454.00 | $1,963.33 | $23,596.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.98 | $519.20 | $2,249.87 | $26,998.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.79 | $551.60 | $2,391.73 | $28,603.20 |
Do Baristas in Pearl City Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. Tips can add an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the location and customer volume, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Pearl City vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Pearl City earn slightly less, with an average of $12.98 per hour and $26,998.40 annually. This difference may be influenced by local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pearl City for Baristas
Nearby areas offer higher salaries for Baristas, with some differences noted:
- Pearl City Shops: $17.88 per hour
- Aiea: $19.50 per hour
Baristas working in Aiea and Pearl City Shops can expect to earn a significantly higher hourly wage compared to Pearl City itself, likely due to the presence of more upscale or busier venues.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Pearl City?
Several factors affect the salary of a Barista in Pearl City:
- Experience Level: More experienced Baristas with superior coffee-making skills can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at premium coffee shops or high-traffic cafes tends to pay more compared to fast casual or smaller venues.
- Skill Specialization: Knowledge of specialty brews and ability to operate advanced espresso machines can boost earnings.
- Shift and Hours: Night shifts or weekend work may include differentials that increase pay.
- Tips and Bonuses: Locations with generous tipping cultures contribute to higher overall income.
How To Become a Barista in Pearl City
To pursue a career as a Barista in Pearl City, consider these steps:
- Complete Barista Training: Programs like the Hawaii Coffee Association Barista Training provide focused instruction on local coffee varieties and brewing techniques.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts: Kapiolani Community College’s Culinary Arts Program offers courses that cover beverage preparation and Barista skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Level 1 can validate your skills and improve job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in cafes or coffee shops to build hands-on skills is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Pearl City
Popular employers looking for qualified Baristas include:
- Starbucks
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- Hana Tea
Establishments That Baristas in Pearl City Work At
Baristas in Pearl City typically find employment in various types of establishments:
- Coffee Shops: Specialty coffee shops often offer training and tips, resulting in higher overall earnings.
- Casual Cafes: These establishments provide stable work but may offer lower wages and fewer tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service Restaurants: Usually paying entry-level wages, focusing on volume rather than specialty drinks.
- Hotels and Resorts: Baristas in high-end hotels may benefit from better pay and tips due to affluent clientele.
The environment and clientele of each establishment significantly affect a Barista’s earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pearl City for Baristas
For those interested in careers related to Baristas, several similar roles exist within the hospitality industry that require overlapping skills.
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Assistant Restaurant Manager, which share customer service and beverage preparation responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Pearl City
Baristas should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for information on nationwide employment standards.
- State-specific labor laws can be accessed via the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
- Local regulations and community resources are available on the City and County of Honolulu official website.