Barista Salary in Spokane-Valley, WA
Baristas in Spokane-Valley, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.92 per hour, which translates to about $676.80 per week, $2,932.80 per month, and $35,193.60 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Spokane-Valley is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this lively coffee culture region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Spokane-Valley, WA?
The salary of a Barista in Spokane-Valley can vary depending on their experience level and the establishment they work for. Below is an overview of earnings based on typical experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.92 | $676.80 | $2,932.80 | $35,193.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.10 | $724.00 | $3,116.67 | $37,648.00 |
Do Baristas in Spokane-Valley Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas commonly earn tips. Depending on the venue and customer volume, Baristas in Spokane-Valley can earn an additional $2 to $5 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Spokane-Valley vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $15.50 per hour, equating to roughly $32,240 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Spokane-Valley earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $16.92 and an annual salary around $35,193.60. This suggests that local demand and cost of living contribute to slightly higher pay in this area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Spokane-Valley for Baristas
Nearby localities offer competitive wages for Baristas:
- Downtown Spokane: $17.40 per hour
- South Hill: $16.80 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Spokane can expect to earn slightly more than in South Hill, reflecting perhaps the higher foot traffic and more upscale coffee establishments.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Spokane-Valley?
A variety of factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Spokane-Valley:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with more experience or specialty skills like latte art or knowledge of exotic coffee blends tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale cafes or specialty coffee shops typically offers better compensation than at fast-food chains or convenience stores.
- Shift Timing: Early morning or weekend shifts may come with increased pay or more tip opportunities.
- Customer Service and Sales Ability: Baristas who excel in customer engagement may receive more tips and be favored for promotions.
How To Become a Barista in Spokane-Valley
To start and advance a career as a Barista in Spokane-Valley, consider these key steps:
- Complete Barista Training Programs: For example, the Barista Training at Thomas Hammer Coffee Roasters offers hands-on training in espresso preparation and customer service vital for success.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Holding a Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food service workers, assuring safe handling practices.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: Consider pursuing the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification to demonstrate proficiency and deepen coffee knowledge.
- Pursue Culinary Education: Programs like the Spokane Community College Culinary Arts Program include comprehensive training in culinary and barista skills.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Spokane-Valley
Spokane-Valley hosts several prominent coffee establishments hiring Baristas:
- Starbucks
- Wake Up Call Coffee
- Thomas Hammer Coffee Roasters
Establishments That Baristas in Spokane-Valley Work At
Baristas in Spokane-Valley typically work across a range of establishments such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These places usually pay more and provide opportunities to hone advanced coffee preparation skills.
- Casual Cafés: Often offer steady work and competitive tips but may have lower base wages compared to specialty shops.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Restaurants: Employment here might offer moderate pay with less opportunity for tips.
- Hotels and Event Venues: May provide higher pay and benefits, especially in busy or upscale settings.
The type of establishment affects salary and tip potential significantly, with specialty shops generally offering the most lucrative opportunities for skilled Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Spokane-Valley for Baristas
If you're exploring related roles similar to Barista, here are a few to consider:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions, all of which involve beverage service skills with varying degrees of responsibility and pay.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Spokane-Valley
Baristas in Spokane-Valley should stay informed on local labor regulations and tax obligations. Useful resources include:
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for information on workplace rights and labor laws.
- The Washington State Employment Security Department offers resources concerning unemployment benefits and employment regulations.
- For federal labor laws, check the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive guidance.