Barista Salary in Portland, ME
Baristas in Portland, ME, in 2025, earn approximately $18.78 per hour, which translates to about $751.20 per week, $3,255.20 per month, and $39,062.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Portland is looking positive with expected growth around 5%, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities in this region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Portland?
The salary of a Barista in Portland can vary depending on their level of experience and the employer, but the following table breaks down typical earnings at different stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.98 | $599.20 | $2,597.87 | $31,174.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.78 | $751.20 | $3,255.20 | $39,062.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.54 | $941.60 | $4,074.40 | $48,923.20 |
Do Baristas in Portland Earn Tips?
Baristas typically earn tips as part of their compensation. They can make an extra around $5 to $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall earnings depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $16.79 per hour, translating to about $34,923.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Portland earn slightly more with an average hourly wage of $18.78 and an annual salary of $39,062.40. This reflects Portland's competitive coffee culture and the value placed on skilled baristas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Baristas
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Baristas:
- Downtown Portland: $19.50 per hour
- Old Port: $20.00 per hour
Working in Old Port tends to offer the highest pay among local neighborhoods, likely due to higher customer traffic and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors influence how much a Barista earns in Portland.
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced skills in espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops or high-end cafés tend to pay better than fast casual or chain coffee outlets.
- Location: Working in busy or popular neighborhoods like Old Port can increase earning potential.
- Tips: The amount earned in tips can significantly affect overall income.
- Certifications and Training: Having recognized Barista Training or Specialty Coffee Association certifications may boost salary prospects.
How To Become a Barista in Portland
Starting a career as a Barista in Portland involves building skills and gaining experience.
- Take Barista Training at Coffee By Design, which offers comprehensive programs on espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service skills.
- Enroll in the Portland Adult Education Culinary Arts Program, which includes modules specifically focused on coffee preparation and Barista skills to gain hands-on experience.
- Obtain relevant certifications, such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification, to validate your knowledge and improve job prospects.
- Gain on-the-job experience, starting in entry-level coffee positions and learning through practice.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Portland
Some of the notable employers regularly seeking Baristas in Portland include:
- Starbucks
- The Press Hotel
- HMSHost
Establishments That Baristas in Portland Work At
Baristas in Portland find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Specialty coffee shops and artisanal cafés: Typically pay above average due to the focus on craft coffee and customer experience.
- Fast casual and chain coffee shops: Offer steady work but often at more standard pay rates.
- Hotels and restaurants: Some, like The Press Hotel, employ Baristas as part of their food and beverage services, potentially offering better tips and benefits.
- Event and catering services: Employing Baristas for on-site coffee service can provide occasional or part-time work with varied pay.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary and tip potential, with specialty shops and upscale venues typically offering the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Baristas
Individuals interested in Barista roles may also consider similar positions in the hospitality field that leverage related skills.
These careers include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Fine Dining Server, which involve customer service and beverage expertise.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Portland
Baristas in Portland should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Information on Maine’s labor laws and employment regulations is available on the official State of Maine website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor website provides resources on federal labor laws and workplace standards.