Barista Salary in St. Louis, MO
Baristas in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $16.14 per hour, which translates to about $645.60 per week, $2,797.60 per month, and $33,571.20 per year.
The job demand for Baristas in St. Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting promising opportunities for those entering or advancing in this profession.
How Much Does a Barista Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Barista in St. Louis can vary depending on the level of experience and the employer. Below is a breakdown illustrating pay across entry, mid, and top earning levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.75 | $550.00 | $2,383.33 | $28,600.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.82 | $632.80 | $2,735.47 | $32,834.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.33 | $813.20 | $3,509.33 | $42,249.60 |
Do Baristas in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in St. Louis often earn tips as part of their compensation. Typically, a Barista can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income, especially in busy coffee shops or specialty cafes.
Barista Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of approximately $16.14 per hour, equating to around $33,571.20 per year. This aligns exactly with the average hourly rate and yearly salary found in St. Louis.
This parity suggests that the wage levels for Baristas in St. Louis closely reflect the broader national market, making St. Louis a competitive location for Baristas without significant disparities in pay.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Baristas
Among nearby areas, Baristas can expect varying pay scales depending on the neighborhood:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Central West End: $16.00 per hour
These locations likely offer higher wages due to increased demand, busier customer traffic, and possibly upscale coffee venues.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several factors can influence a Barista's earnings in St. Louis:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with expertise in espresso preparation and latte art tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or premium cafes often offers better pay compared to fast food or chain coffee outlets.
- Customer Interaction and Tipping: Baristas in high-traffic, tip-friendly environments can increase their income substantially.
- Certifications and Training: Baristas holding specialty certifications may command a premium salary.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Extended hours or working during peak times might influence pay with shift differentials or additional tips.
How To Become a Barista in St. Louis
Becoming a Barista in St. Louis can be achieved through several key steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs such as St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program and Kaldi's Coffee Barista Training Program offer valuable hands-on experience and beverage management skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquiring certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification and ServSafe Food Handler Certification can validate your expertise and enhance employability.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles or apprenticeships provide foundational knowledge and customer service skills necessary in this profession.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Baristas interact directly with customers, so strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in St. Louis
Some of the prominent employers in St. Louis actively seeking skilled Baristas include:
- Starbucks
- Kaldi's Coffee
- Park Avenue Coffee
Establishments That Baristas in St. Louis Work At
Baristas in St. Louis find employment across various types of establishments, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Typically higher wages and opportunities for tips, often catering to coffee enthusiasts.
- Casual Dining and Fast Casual: Moderate pay and less tipping, but consistent work schedules.
- Chain Franchises: Standardized wages, possibly with employee benefits but lower variability in pay.
- Corporate Cafeterias and Hotels: May offer steady employment and benefits, though wages can be lower.
The type of establishment can greatly affect earnings, with specialty shops offering the best prospects for both base pay and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Baristas
Those interested in roles related to Barista work may consider the following similar job positions:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions, which require overlapping skills and may provide alternative or supplementary career opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in St. Louis
Baristas should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and taxation requirements to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Missouri state labor department provides resources specific to employment laws and worker protections within the state.