Barista Salary in Savannah, GA
Baristas in Savannah, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.88 per hour, which translates to about $595.20 per week, $2,579.20 per month, and $30,950.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Savannah is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy market and increasing opportunities in the coffee and beverage service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Savannah, GA?
The salary of a Barista in Savannah can vary based on experience and employer, but here’s a general overview by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.36 | $454.40 | $1,967.73 | $23,725.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.88 | $595.20 | $2,579.20 | $30,950.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
Do Baristas in Savannah Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Savannah typically earn tips which can add a meaningful boost to their income, often approximating an extra $5 to $10 per hour during busy shifts or in upscale coffee shops.
Barista Salary in Savannah vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $14.88 per hour and about $30,950.40 per year, which is in line with the average salaries seen in Savannah.
This indicates that Savannah’s Barista salaries are competitive and correspond with the national trend, offering reasonable pay relative to many other cities.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Savannah for Baristas
Nearby areas in Savannah offer slightly varied wages for Baristas, including:
- Downtown Savannah: $15.31 per hour
- Midtown Savannah: $14.88 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Savannah can expect a marginally higher hourly rate, likely due to the increased foot traffic and tourism in the area.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Savannah?
Several factors can influence how much a Barista earns in Savannah:
- Experience and Proficiency: More experienced Baristas with advanced espresso machine skills or latte art abilities can command higher wages.
- Workplace Type: Independent specialty coffee shops often pay more than chain cafes or fast food establishments.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer premium pay or higher tips depending on customer volume.
- Location: Establishments in busier or tourist-heavy neighborhoods generally offer better pay.
- Certifications: Training certifications can improve employability and salary levels.
How To Become a Barista in Savannah
To pursue a career as a Barista in Savannah, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary or Barista Programs: Savannah Technical College’s Culinary Arts Program includes beverage management and barista training to build solid foundational skills.
- Attend Specialized Training: Nearby, the Counter Culture Coffee Training Center in Charleston, SC offers courses like Barista Fundamentals and Brewing Science that deepen your craft.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler ensure understanding of safe food service practices, often required by employers.
- Gain Specialty Coffee Certification: The Specialty Coffee Association's Barista Skills Certification is internationally recognized and adds significant value to your resume.
- Practice and Network: Get experience working in local coffee shops and connect with professionals in the hospitality industry.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Savannah
Reputable places currently hiring Baristas in Savannah include:
- Starbucks
- Savannah Coffee Roasters
- Black Rifle Coffee
- The Sentient Bean
- Gallery Espresso
Establishments That Baristas in Savannah Work At
Baristas in Savannah typically find work at a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual cafes and coffee shops: Offering steady work but often a moderate wage.
- Fast casual and quick-service restaurants: Where volume and efficiency matter; wages vary but tips may be lower.
- Specialty and artisanal coffee houses: Usually provide higher pay and rewards for advanced barista skills.
- Hotels and resorts: Often pay better wages and may include benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment can significantly impact a Barista’s earnings and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Savannah for Baristas
If you are considering similar roles within hospitality related to being a Barista, here are a few options you might explore:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback — roles that are adjacent in skill set and workplace environment, often offering varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Savannah
Baristas should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements that apply to them.
- State-specific labor laws and employment regulations can be found at the Georgia Department of Labor.
- For federal labor standards and guidelines, the U.S. Department of Labor is the authoritative resource.