Barista Salary in Santa Ana, CA
Baristas in Santa Ana, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.49 per hour, which translates to about $779.60 per week, $3,378.27 per month, and $40,539.20 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Santa Ana is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market for this role in the city.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Santa Ana, CA?
The salary of a Barista in Santa Ana varies depending on experience level, skills, and employer type. Here's a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.35 | $614.00 | $2,653.33 | $31,928.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.49 | $779.60 | $3,378.27 | $40,539.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.95 | $918.00 | $3,965.00 | $47,736.00 |
Do Baristas in Santa Ana Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Santa Ana typically earn tips, which can significantly supplement their base salary. It's common for Baristas to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the location and customer volume.
Barista Salary in Santa Ana vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Baristas in Santa Ana earn a higher hourly wage at $19.49 per hour and an annual salary of approximately $40,539.20. The pay difference reflects higher living costs and demand in the Santa Ana area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Ana for Baristas
Nearby areas offer some of the highest wages for Baristas, significantly exceeding the Santa Ana averages:
- Norwalk: $40.96 per hour
- Cypress: $40.82 per hour
Baristas willing to commute to Norwalk or Cypress can significantly increase their earnings, nearly doubling those typical in Santa Ana.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Santa Ana?
Several factors contribute to the variability in a Barista's salary in Santa Ana:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more experience and advanced coffee-making skills often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale coffee shops or specialty cafes usually pays better than fast-food chains.
- Location and Commute: Some areas nearby offer notably higher wages, so willingness to commute can impact earnings significantly.
- Tips and Customer Volume: Locations with high customer traffic generally provide more tipping opportunities.
- Certifications and Training: Additional certification, such as from the Barista Guild of America, can enhance employability and salary prospects.
How To Become a Barista in Santa Ana
To pursue a career as a Barista in Santa Ana, consider these steps:
- Enroll in Training Programs: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program in Costa Mesa and the Santa Ana College Hospitality Management Program offer valuable coursework and practical experience.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is essential for meeting California’s health standards.
- Obtain Professional Barista Certification: The Barista Guild of America Certification is a respected credential that demonstrates expertise in coffee preparation.
- Gain Experience: Starting at local coffee shops and building customer service skills and coffee knowledge is critical for advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Santa Ana
Some of the prominent employers frequently hiring Baristas in Santa Ana include:
- Starbucks
- The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
- Tierra Mia Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in Santa Ana Work At
Baristas in Santa Ana work across a range of establishments:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Tend to offer higher wages and better tips due to quality-focused clientele.
- Chain Coffee Shops: Provide steady employment and benefits but often have lower pay than independents.
- Fast Casual and Cafes: Work environments vary, and salaries may range widely depending on the brand and location.
The type of establishment influences both base pay and tip potential, with specialty cafes generally offering the highest total compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Ana for Baristas
If you're considering careers similar to being a Barista, here are a few options:
These roles include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager. They share skills related to beverage preparation and customer service, often presenting career advancement opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Santa Ana
Baristas in Santa Ana must comply with both state and federal labor laws and tax regulations.
- For California state labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For employment services and tax information in California, the California Employment Development Department is an essential resource.
- For federal labor laws and resources, the U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive guidance.