Barista Salary in Pomona, CA
Baristas in Pomona, CA, in 2026, earn around $19.14 per hour, which equates to roughly $765.60 per week, $3,317.60 per month, and $39,811.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Pomona is growing at a rate of about 6% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in this field.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Pomona, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Pomona varies depending on experience, skills, and the employer. Below is a breakdown of average pay rates by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.60 | $384.00 | $1,661.33 | $19,968.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.14 | $765.60 | $3,317.60 | $39,811.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.80 | $1,152.00 | $4,960.00 | $59,904.00 |
Do Baristas in Pomona Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Pomona often earn tips in addition to their salary. They can make an extra approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, boosting their overall earnings significantly, especially during busy periods.
Barista Salary in Pomona vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn about $14.50 per hour, which is around $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Pomona earn a higher hourly wage and annual salary, reflecting local market demands and possibly the cost of living in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pomona for Baristas
Nearby areas with higher average pay for Baristas include:
- Downtown Pomona: $20.25 per hour
- Rio Rancho & Rancho Valley: $22.99 per hour
Working in these locations could increase a Barista’s salary due to higher demand or more upscale establishments.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Pomona?
Several factors can influence how much a Barista makes in Pomona:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Baristas with skills in latte art or specialty coffee preparation typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end coffee shops, upscale cafes, or busy urban locations can increase pay compared to fast-food chains.
- Certifications: Holding certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Night or weekend shifts may offer higher wages or tips.
- Customer Service Skills: Friendly, efficient service can lead to better tips and bonus opportunities.
How To Become a Barista in Pomona
To pursue a career as a Barista in Pomona, consider the following steps:
- Formal Training: Enroll in programs like the Barista Training Program at Mt. San Antonio College which covers coffee preparation techniques and equipment handling.
- Hospitality Education: Consider broader programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Cal Poly Pomona which includes barista skills alongside beverage management.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the internationally recognized Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification demonstrate professionalism and enhance job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Work in local cafes or coffee shops to develop skills and build a customer service reputation.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Pomona
Popular employers looking for Baristas in Pomona include:
- Starbucks
- Perkatory LLC
- Tierra Mia Coffee Company
- Boba Tea Zone & Pho Saigon
- Bon Appétit
Establishments That Baristas in Pomona Work At
Baristas in Pomona are typically employed in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These offer a steady flow of customers; pay may be moderate but tips can supplement income.
- Fast Casual and Chain Cafes: Usually provide established training and stable hours with moderate wages.
- Specialty and Artisan Cafes: Tend to pay higher wages due to skill requirements and often offer a more generous tipping environment.
- Restaurants and Catering Companies: Baristas may work here handling specialty beverage orders, with variability in wages depending on clientele.
The type of establishment can greatly impact earnings, with specialty cafes often offering the best pay and tip opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pomona for Baristas
For those interested in roles similar to Barista, the following positions may be relevant:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager, roles with overlapping skill sets related to beverage preparation and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Pomona
Baristas should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations at the federal, state, and local levels to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Federal employment standards can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California state-specific labor laws and workplace regulations are detailed on California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- For city-specific resources and regulations, visit the City of Pomona official website.