Barista Salary in Racine, WI
Baristas in Racine, WI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Racine is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities and growth within the coffee and beverage service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Racine, WI?
The salary of a Barista in Racine varies depending on experience, skills, and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings across typical experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Baristas in Racine Earn Tips?
Baristas commonly earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. On average, a Barista in Racine can make an extra $5 to $8 per hour in tips, significantly supplementing their overall income depending on the venue and customer traffic.
Barista Salary in Racine vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equals roughly $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Baristas in Racine earn a slightly lower hourly wage at $13.90, equating to an annual salary of about $28,912. This discrepancy may be influenced by local living costs, economic factors, and employer types.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Racine for Baristas
Salaries for Baristas can vary around Racine, with nearby areas offering differing pay scales:
- Downtown Racine: $15.50 per hour
- Mount Pleasant: $17.60 per hour
Working in Mount Pleasant can be notably more lucrative than other areas nearby, emphasizing location as a key factor for pay differences.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Racine?
Several important factors affect how much a Barista can earn in Racine:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Baristas with expertise in specialty coffee drinks and customer service often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale cafés or specialty coffee shops generally offers better pay than fast food or chain coffee shops.
- Certification and Training: Holding certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can enhance salary potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Baristas working weekends or evenings may receive shift differentials increasing their earnings.
- Location: Salaries differ by neighborhood or town within the Racine area, as seen in pay rates for Mount Pleasant versus Downtown Racine.
How To Become a Barista in Racine
To start a successful career as a Barista in Racine, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Programs: Gateway Technical College offers a Culinary Arts program including barista training that focuses on beverage preparation and customer service skills. Racine Culinary School provides specialized courses in coffee brewing techniques and barista skills, tailored for aspiring coffee professionals.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning a ServSafe Food Handler Certification assures employers of your knowledge in food safety. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification is highly regarded and validates professional abilities.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions, internships, or part-time work in local coffee shops will provide practical skills and boost employability.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Success as a Barista often depends on delivering excellent service and building rapport with customers.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Racine
Several prominent employers in Racine actively seek skilled Baristas to join their teams:
- Starbucks
- Kilwins Chocolates & Ice Cream
- The Sweet Spot Coffee Shop
- Queen of Cream Coffee
- Lola’s Coffee & Crepes
Establishments That Baristas in Racine Work At
Baristas are typically employed across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Coffee Shops and Cafés: These locations often offer flexible shifts but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual and Chain Coffee Shops: These venues usually provide consistent hours and benefits but may have standard pay scales.
- Specialty Coffee Shops and Artisan Cafés: Higher-end establishments may offer better wages and opportunities for tips due to premium pricing and clientele.
- Confectionery and Dessert Shops: Places like Kilwins often combine barista roles with sweet treats, sometimes resulting in higher pay.
The type and prestige of the establishment can influence the salary and tip potential for Baristas in Racine.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Racine for Baristas
If you are considering other careers related to being a Barista, here are similar roles that might interest you:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions, which share related skills in beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Racine
Baristas in Racine should be aware of federal, state, and local labor regulations and tax responsibilities to ensure compliance and informed employment.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for overarching rules and protections.
- Wisconsin's state labor laws and employment resources can be found at the State of Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website.
- For Racine-specific regulations and resources, visit the local government website.