Barista Salary in Tempe, AZ
Baristas in Tempe, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.62 per hour, which translates to about $744.80 per week, $3,227.47 per month, and $38,729.60 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Tempe is growing positively at about 6% per year, indicating an expanding market for coffee professionals and café service roles in the area.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Tempe, AZ?
The salary of a Barista in Tempe varies with experience and employer, but here is an overview of pay scales across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.70 | $588.00 | $2,541.33 | $30,516.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.62 | $744.80 | $3,227.47 | $38,729.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.76 | $1,150.40 | $4,967.47 | $59,820.80 |
Do Baristas in Tempe Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Tempe commonly earn tips, which can amount to an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the location and customer volume, significantly boosting their overall income.
Barista Salary in Tempe vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.52 per hour, equating to about $32,281.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Baristas in Tempe earn a higher wage, with an average of $18.62 per hour and $38,729.60 annually.
This difference can be explained by the local market conditions, demand for skilled coffee professionals, and cost of living in Tempe.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tempe for Baristas
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Baristas, including:
- Downtown Tempe: $19.05 per hour
- University Area: $18.62 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Tempe tend to earn slightly higher wages, likely due to increased foot traffic and a bustling commerce district.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Tempe?
Several factors contribute to how much a Barista can earn in Tempe:
- Experience and Skills: Proficiency in coffee brewing techniques and customer service improves earning potential.
- Certification and Training: Credentials like SCA Barista Skills Certification or completion of training programs can enhance pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end cafés or specialty coffee shops usually offer better pay than general fast food or chain outlets.
- Location: Busy areas and popular neighborhoods tend to pay more due to higher business volume.
- Tips and Bonuses: Effective customer engagement can increase tip earnings, adding to overall income.
How To Become a Barista in Tempe
To start or advance a career as a Barista in Tempe, consider the following steps:
- Complete a Barista Training Program at Arizona State University, which offers comprehensive coffee preparation, customer service, and café management education.
- Obtain Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Certification, an internationally recognized credential that showcases your coffee brewing and barista skills.
- Secure a Food Handler's Card, a mandatory certification in Arizona that ensures compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
- Earn the SCA Barista Skills Certification, validating your expertise and improving employment prospects.
- Gain practical experience by working in local cafés and coffee shops to build your skills and customer rapport.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Tempe
Some of the prominent employers that regularly hire Baristas in Tempe include:
- Starbucks
- Aramark
- Black Rock Coffee Bar
Establishments That Baristas in Tempe Work At
Baristas in Tempe commonly work at a variety of establishments including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These venues often offer higher wages and opportunities to develop advanced coffee-making skills.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Wages can be moderate here, but tips may supplement income to some extent.
- Cafés in Universities or Corporate Settings: Positions can offer stable hours and benefits, though pay may vary.
- Chain Coffee Outlets: Typically provide standardized pay rates and training programs.
The type of establishment affects salary through differences in customer volume, service style, and tipping culture.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tempe for Baristas
If you're considering roles related to Barista, you might explore these similar careers in the hospitality sector:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Server positions, all related to beverage service and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Tempe
Baristas in Tempe should be aware of local and federal labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work:
- Refer to the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and certifications.
- The Arizona Department of Economic Security offers resources related to employment and labor rights.
- Federal labor laws and standards are available at the U.S. Department of Labor.