Barista Salary in Pittsburgh, PA
Baristas in Pittsburgh, PA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.41 per hour, which translates to about $576.40 per week, $2,497.73 per month, and $29,972.80 per year.
The job demand for Baristas in Pittsburgh is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive employment prospects for those entering this profession annually.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Pittsburgh, PA?
The salary of a Barista in Pittsburgh varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.06 | $442.40 | $1,913.07 | $23,056.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.41 | $576.40 | $2,497.73 | $29,972.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.77 | $750.80 | $3,227.73 | $38,961.60 |
Do Baristas in Pittsburgh, PA Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Pittsburgh typically earn tips that can amount to an extra $1 to $5 per hour, depending on the establishment and customer traffic. Tips can significantly supplement their base earnings.
Barista Salary in Pittsburgh vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.49 per hour, which comes to about $30,139.20 per year.
Baristas in Pittsburgh earn slightly below the national average at $14.41 per hour, or $29,972.80 annually, reflecting regional economic factors and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pittsburgh for Baristas
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay for Baristas compared to Pittsburgh itself:
- Wexford: $17.69 per hour
- West Chester: $16.56 per hour
Baristas commuting to Wexford or West Chester can expect higher wages, which may be attractive for those seeking better compensation.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Pittsburgh?
Several factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Pittsburgh:
- Experience and Skill Level: Skilled Baristas proficient in espresso preparation and latte art often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or high-traffic cafes usually results in better salaries and tips compared to fast food or casual spots.
- Certifications and Training: Certifications in coffee knowledge or customer service can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Hours and Location: Night shifts or prime locations with heavy customer flow may offer increased wages or tips.
How To Become a Barista in Pittsburgh
Entering the Barista profession in Pittsburgh can be streamlined by following key steps:
- Complete Barista Training: Programs such as Barista Training at La Prima Espresso Company provide comprehensive instruction on espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service.
- Gain Coffee Education: Institutions like Commonplace Coffee offer workshops that cover coffee brewing techniques and industry insights.
- Earn Certifications: Consider obtaining certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification or the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate professionalism and knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Pittsburgh
Some of the prominent employers in Pittsburgh that hire Baristas include:
- Starbucks
- Coffee Tree Roasters
- Crazy Mocha
- La Prima Espresso
- Commonplace Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Pittsburgh Work At
Baristas find employment at a variety of establishments in Pittsburgh, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Typically offer higher pay and require advanced barista skills.
- Casual Cafes and Fast Casual Restaurants: These often provide stable employment though sometimes at a lower wage rate.
- Chain Coffee Stores: Larger chains like Starbucks provide structured pay scales and benefits but may offer less flexibility.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Some Baristas work in upscale restaurants and hotels where skillset demands and pay can be higher.
The type and prestige of establishment strongly influence the base salary and opportunities for tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pittsburgh for Baristas
If you are interested in exploring job roles similar to that of a Barista, here are some related hospitality careers to consider.
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions—roles that share similar hospitality and beverage-service skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Pittsburgh
Baristas should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper management of their employment:
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry - state labor laws and regulations for up-to-date information on wages, working hours, and employee rights.
- Consult the Internal Revenue Service - federal tax information for guidance on tax obligations and filing.
- Access local rules and resources via the City of Pittsburgh official website - local regulations and resources.