Barista Salary in Suffolk, VA
Baristas in Suffolk, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $12.50 per hour, which translates to about $500.00 per week, $2,166.67 per month, and $26,000.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Suffolk is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the local coffee and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Suffolk, VA?
The salary of a Barista in Suffolk can vary based on experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,413.33 | $28,960.00 |
Do Baristas in Suffolk Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips as a significant part of their income. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can substantially increase their overall earnings depending on the location and customer traffic.
Barista Salary in Suffolk vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn about $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160.00 annually.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Suffolk earn slightly less at around $12.50 per hour and $26,000.00 per year. This difference may reflect local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Suffolk for Baristas
Nearby areas offer varying pay scales for Baristas:
- Harbour View: $14.50 per hour
- Downtown Suffolk: $13.50 per hour
Baristas working in Harbour View enjoy higher wages, possibly due to greater demand or more upscale establishments.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Suffolk?
Several factors impact the salary level of a Barista in Suffolk:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced coffee-making skills command higher pay rates.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and upscale cafes tend to offer better salaries and tips than fast-food chains or casual spots.
- Certification and Training: Certifications like the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification can boost potential earnings.
- Shift Hours: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might offer premium pay rates.
How To Become a Barista in Suffolk
Starting a career as a Barista in Suffolk can be achieved through several steps:
- Enroll in Local Training Programs: Programs such as the Suffolk Workforce Development Center Barista Training provide tailored education for aspiring Baristas.
- Pursue Culinary or Beverage Courses: Institutions like Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program offer courses beneficial for beverage preparation skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Acquiring a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often required to work in foodservice roles.
- Consider Industry Certification: The Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification validates professional coffee-making abilities and enhances employability.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Suffolk
Some of the leading employers looking for Baristas in Suffolk include:
- Starbucks
- Harris Teeter
- Kroger
Establishments That Baristas in Suffolk Work At
Baristas typically find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Generally offer higher wages and better tips due to a loyal customer base and premium products.
- Cafes and Casual Dining: Competitive wages with opportunities for tips, depending on the establishment's size and client volume.
- Grocery Stores and Supermarket Cafés: Usually provide stable but lower hourly rates without much tipping.
- Fast Food Chains: May offer entry-level positions with minimum wage and limited tips.
The type of establishment significantly influences total compensation, with specialty and independent cafes leading the pay scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Suffolk for Baristas
For those considering related roles, here are a few similar hospitality jobs to a Barista:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager positions, which share similar skills and career paths with Baristas.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Suffolk
Baristas should familiarize themselves with both federal and state labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Virginia-specific labor laws and resources, refer to the Virginia state government website.