Barista Salary in Stamford, CT
Baristas in Stamford, CT, in 2025, earn approximately $19.86 per hour, which translates to about $794.40 per week, $3,442.40 per month, and $41,308.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Stamford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and expanding opportunities in the coffee and beverage service industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Stamford, CT?
The salary of a Barista in Stamford varies by experience level and employer. Here’s a general overview of earnings based on different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.05 | $642.00 | $2,769.00 | $33,384.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.86 | $794.40 | $3,442.40 | $41,308.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.56 | $982.40 | $4,243.47 | $50,964.80 |
Do Baristas in Stamford Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips. Many can make an extra $2 to $5 per hour in tips depending on the location and customer volume. In busy coffee shops, this can significantly supplement their base salary.
Barista Salary in Stamford vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn around $15.14 per hour, which equates to about $31,491.20 per year.
Baristas in Stamford earn notably more than the national average, with an hourly rate of $19.86 and annual earnings around $41,308.80, reflecting local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Stamford for Baristas
Nearby areas offer the following pay rates for Baristas:
- Downtown Stamford: $20.50 per hour
- North Stamford: $19.50 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Stamford tend to earn slightly higher wages compared to North Stamford.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Stamford?
Several factors impact how much a Barista can earn in Stamford:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas or those skilled in specialty coffee techniques often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale cafes, specialty coffee shops, or busy downtown locations usually pays better than smaller or less busy establishments.
- Certification and Training: Having certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can boost earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may sometimes have premium pay rates or tip potentials.
How To Become a Barista in Stamford
Starting your career as a Barista in Stamford involves several key steps:
- Complete Barista Training: Programs such as the Barista Training Program at Norwalk Community College provide comprehensive skills in coffee brewing, customer service, and equipment maintenance.
- Advanced Workshops: Attending specialty courses like the Advanced Coffee Making Workshop at Stamford Adult Education enhances your expertise in specialty coffee and latte art.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure compliance with safety practices often required by employers.
- Earn Barista Certifications: The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification is a well-recognized credential that demonstrates proficiency and can help advance your career.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Stamford
Popular employers hiring Baristas in Stamford include:
- Starbucks
- Juliska
- Turning Point Coffee Roasters
Establishments That Baristas in Stamford Work At
Baristas commonly work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Coffee Shops: These establishments offer frequent customer interaction, and salaries may be moderate with good tip potential.
- Fast Casual Cafes: Baristas here often benefit from a steady flow of customers, and some may enjoy higher base pay.
- Specialty Coffee Houses: These venues usually give higher wages and require advanced coffee-making skills.
- Restaurants and Hotels: Baristas working in such settings might have varied roles and earn differently depending on the venue’s scale and prestige.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary and tip opportunities of Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Stamford for Baristas
If you are interested in careers similar to Barista, here are some related roles you might consider:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback positions, which involve related skills in beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Stamford
Baristas should be aware of state and federal labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage their income effectively.
- Consult the Connecticut Department of Labor for state-specific employment laws and resources.
- For overarching federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.