Barista Salary in Providence, RI
Baristas in Providence, RI, in 2025, earn approximately $16.43 per hour, which translates to about $657.20 per week, $2,847.87 per month, and $34,174.40 per year.
The job demand for Baristas in Providence is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled coffee preparation professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Providence, RI?
The salary of a Barista in Providence can vary depending on experience and specific employer, but the following table outlines estimated earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.43 | $657.20 | $2,847.87 | $34,174.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.18 | $847.20 | $3,658.40 | $43,984.00 |
Do Baristas in Providence Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas usually earn tips on top of their hourly wage. In Providence, Baristas can make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings depending on the location and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Providence vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.50 per hour, translating to about $32,240 per year.
Compared to this, Baristas in Providence earn a slightly higher average wage at $16.43 per hour and $34,174.40 annually. This reflects Providence's competitive coffee culture and local market conditions that favor skilled Baristas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Providence for Baristas
Exploring nearby areas reveals some variation in Barista salaries:
- Richmond: $21.10 per hour
- Newport: $16.56 per hour
Baristas in Richmond enjoy significantly higher pay, likely due to local demand and cost of living factors, while Newport's rates are closer to Providence's.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Providence?
Several factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Providence, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced skills, such as espresso preparation and latte art, tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops, upscale cafes, or popular coffee chains can offer better salaries compared to fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Certification and Training: Baristas with recognized certifications or formal training often have increased earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Baristas working peak hours, early mornings, or weekends may receive shift differentials or more lucrative tip pools.
- Local Cost of Living: Providence’s moderate cost of living influences wages to be above national averages but below some of the highest-paying cities.
How To Become a Barista in Providence
Starting a career as a Barista in Providence involves several clear steps and possible certifications to enhance employability and salary prospects.
- Gain Basic Barista Training: Programs like those from Johnson & Wales University provide comprehensive training in coffee preparation and customer service skills, which are invaluable for new Baristas.
- Specialized Courses: Attend courses offered by establishments such as New Harvest Coffee Roasters focusing on espresso techniques and latte art.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure food safety knowledge in food service environments.
- Professional Barista Certification: Earning credentials such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification validates your coffee expertise and can improve hiring prospects.
- Practical Experience: Many Baristas start with entry-level roles or apprenticeships to build skills and earn experience in busy coffee shops.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Providence
Several notable establishments in Providence regularly seek skilled Baristas, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Starbucks
- Blue State Coffee
- Seven Stars Bakery
Establishments That Baristas in Providence Work At
Baristas in Providence typically find employment in various types of establishments such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often offer higher pay and focus on quality coffee and customer experience.
- Fast-Casual Cafes: Offer consistent employment opportunities but usually pay slightly less.
- Restaurants and Casual Dining: Some restaurants also employ Baristas, mostly as part of a broader service team.
- Bakeries and Coffee Chains: Large chains and bakeries may provide steady hours and tipping opportunities but can have variable wages.
The type and prestige of establishment can significantly affect salary, benefits, and tip opportunities for Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Providence for Baristas
For those interested in similar roles within hospitality, related careers often involve customer service and food/beverage preparation.
These similar roles include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Backwaiter, all sharing elements of customer interaction and beverage service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Providence
Baristas should be informed about federal and state labor laws and tax obligations to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and employment data, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- For Rhode Island state-specific labor regulations and resources, refer to the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.