Barista Salary in Riverside, CA
Baristas in Riverside, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.76 per hour, which translates to about $790.40 per week, $3,425.07 per month, and $41,100.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Riverside is growing at a healthy rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities for employment and career development in this role.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Riverside varies by experience, with entry-level, mid-level, and top earners seeing different hourly and annual earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.11 | $684.40 | $2,958.27 | $35,500.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.76 | $790.40 | $3,425.07 | $41,100.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.81 | $912.40 | $3,931.73 | $47,444.80 |
Do Baristas in Riverside Earn Tips?
Baristas typically earn tips in addition to their base salary, which can amount to approximately $5 to $10 extra per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average hourly wage of about $15.30 and an annual salary around $31,824.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Riverside earn notably more, with about $19.76 per hour and $41,100.80 annually, reflecting the cost of living and demand in California.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Baristas
Nearby areas also offer competitive wages for Baristas:
- Loma Linda: $20.41 per hour
- Perris: $20.38 per hour
Baristas working in Loma Linda or Perris may find slightly higher salaries while remaining close to Riverside.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Riverside?
Several factors influence the earnings of Baristas in Riverside:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more experience or specialized skills in espresso preparation and latte art tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end coffee shops or popular chains can yield better pay than smaller cafes or fast casual venues.
- Location and Demand: Urban areas and neighborhoods with a strong coffee culture usually offer better salaries.
- Certification and Training: Completing formal training or certifications can improve earnable wages.
- Shift Hours and Tips: Evening or weekend shifts might have higher pay or more lucrative tips.
How To Become a Barista in Riverside
Becoming a successful Barista in Riverside involves:
- Completing Barista Training Programs: Programs like the Barista Training Program at Riverside City College offer comprehensive coverage of coffee preparation techniques, customer service, and equipment maintenance.
- Obtaining Certifications: Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification is internationally recognized and offers various levels of barista skills training.
- Food Safety Credentials: A Food Handler's Permit is required by California law for all food service employees to ensure safe food handling practices. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification provides nationally recognized food safety training.
- Gaining Practical Experience: Working in local cafes or coffee shops helps build hands-on skills and customer service experience.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Riverside
Some prominent employers frequently hiring Baristas in Riverside include:
- Starbucks
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- Peet's Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Riverside Work At
Baristas in Riverside work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Coffee Shops: Generally provide steady shifts and moderate wages with opportunities for tips.
- Fast Casual Cafes: May offer higher volume and chance to develop speed and efficiency but with varying wage scales.
- High-End Coffee Bars and Specialty Cafes: These typically pay higher salaries and may offer more tips due to affluent clientele and specialty drinks.
- Chain Coffee Retailers: Often provide structured pay scales, benefits, and training programs.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Barista’s salary and the potential for additional income through tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Baristas
If you are interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, consider these alternatives to a Barista:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Cashier roles, which share customer service and beverage preparation responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Riverside
Baristas in Riverside should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work:
- California's labor standards and employee rights are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Employment services and tax information are accessible through the California Employment Development Department.
- For federal labor laws and wage regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.