Barista Salary in Sioux Falls, SD
Baristas in Sioux Falls, SD, in 2025, earn approximately $16.03 per hour, which translates to about $641.20 per week, $2,778.53 per month, and $33,342.40 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Sioux Falls is growing moderately at about 5% per year, showing a positive outlook for job availability and career opportunities in the local café and coffee shop industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Sioux Falls, SD?
The salary of a Barista in Sioux Falls varies depending on experience and work setting. Here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.75 | $510.00 | $2,210.00 | $26,520.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.03 | $641.20 | $2,778.53 | $33,342.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.13 | $805.20 | $3,502.40 | $42,662.40 |
Do Baristas in Sioux Falls Earn Tips?
Baristas in Sioux Falls commonly earn tips. They can typically make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and clientele, significantly boosting their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Sioux Falls vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn approximately $16.03 per hour and about $33,342.40 annually, which aligns closely with the average wages seen in Sioux Falls.
This parity suggests that Sioux Falls offers competitive pay for Baristas relative to national standards, despite having a lower cost of living than many major metro areas.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sioux Falls for Baristas
Nearby areas vary slightly in Barista pay rates:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- East Sioux Falls: $17.00 per hour
Baristas working in East Sioux Falls may enjoy the highest local wages, reflecting more upscale or busy coffee spots in that neighborhood.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Sioux Falls?
Several key factors affect how much a Barista earns in Sioux Falls:
- Experience Level: More experienced Baristas tend to command higher wages due to refined coffee-making skills and customer interaction abilities.
- Skills and Certifications: Baristas with advanced skills such as latte art or espresso preparation, and certifications, can earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and busy cafés often pay better than fast food chains or smaller outlets.
- Shift Timings: Working early mornings or late-night shifts may come with shift differentials.
How To Become a Barista in Sioux Falls
Starting a Barista career in Sioux Falls involves a few practical steps to build skills and credentials:
- Enroll in Training Programs: Programs like the Southeast Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in coffee preparation and service.
- Complete Hands-On Barista Training: The Barista Basics Training Program at Coffea Roasterie offers practical coffee-making experience and customer service skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required and ensures knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Obtain Specialty Certifications: Certifications from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) in Barista Skills can enhance credibility and job prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls offers employment opportunities for Baristas with several prominent employers, including:
- Starbucks
- Coffea Roasterie
- Hy-Vee
Establishments That Baristas in Sioux Falls Work At
Baristas in Sioux Falls find jobs in varied establishments such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These venues focus on high-quality coffee and innovative drinks, often offering higher wages and tips.
- Casual and Fast Casual Cafés: Busy locations with consistent customer flow, generally offering steady pay but lower tips.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Grocery chains like Hy-Vee employ Baristas in store cafés with set salaries and occasional tips.
The type of establishment substantially influences salary and tip earnings, with specialty shops providing the most lucrative environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sioux Falls for Baristas
Those interested in similar roles to Barista may consider the following careers which also involve customer service and food preparation skills:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Cashier positions—all related through shared customer service and beverage service responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Sioux Falls
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Baristas in Sioux Falls to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific state guidelines, the South Dakota Department of Labor and Regulation provides detailed resources.