Barista Salary in Thornton, CO
Baristas in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $16.05 per hour, which translates to about $642.00 per week, $2,782.00 per month, and $33,384.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local coffee service industry.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Barista in Thornton varies depending on experience and employer. Below is an overview of incomes across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,561.07 | $30,692.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.05 | $642.00 | $2,782.00 | $33,384.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.58 | $863.20 | $3,717.87 | $44,865.60 |
Do Baristas in Thornton Earn Tips?
Baristas typically earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. On average, Baristas in Thornton may earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment's volume and customer generosity, adding a meaningful supplement to their hourly wage.
Barista Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn about $16.05 per hour and approximately $33,384.00 per year, which aligns exactly with the average salary in Thornton.
This parity indicates that Thornton’s Baristas receive competitive pay comparable to the national average, reflecting a balanced local market for coffee service professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Baristas
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Baristas:
- Aurora, CO: $17.50 per hour
- Denver, CO: $17.00 per hour
Commuting to these cities could result in higher earnings, though cost of living and commute times should be considered.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Thornton?
Several factors can impact a Barista’s earnings in Thornton, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas, especially those skilled in espresso preparation and latte art, command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops or upscale cafes often offer better wages and tipping opportunities compared to chain coffee retailers.
- Certifications: Having professional certifications, such as the SCA Barista Certification, can enhance earning potential.
- Shift Timing: Working peak hours, weekends, or holidays might include shift differentials or increased tips.
- Customer Service Skills: Baristas who excel in customer interaction often receive more generous tips, increasing total compensation.
How To Become a Barista in Thornton
Becoming a Barista in Thornton involves a combination of training, skill development, and experience.
- Complete a Barista Training Program: Programs like the Barista Training Program at Amante Coffee provide comprehensive instruction in espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service skills.
- Attend Workshops: Participating in the Coffee Art and Science Workshop at Five15 Coffee can deepen your understanding of brewing methods and coffee science.
- Earn Professional Certifications: Acquiring the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification demonstrates mastery of essential Barista skills and can improve job prospects and salary.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures adherence to food safety standards, often required by employers in food service.
- Gain Experience: Working in various coffee establishments to refine both technical and customer service skills is valuable for career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Thornton
Some notable employers actively seeking Baristas in Thornton include:
- Amante Coffee
- The Original Pancake House
- Nordstrom Cafe
- Five15 Coffee
- Jelly Cafe
Establishments That Baristas in Thornton Work At
Baristas in Thornton commonly find employment in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Cafes and Coffee Shops: These establishments provide steady work hours and often opportunities for tips, but wages may be moderate.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer increased wages with a fast-paced environment but sometimes fewer tips.
- Specialty Coffee Houses: Tend to pay higher salaries and value expertise and certifications, potentially increasing earnings.
- Retail and Department Store Cafes: Stable work environments that sometimes offer benefits but with varying pay scales.
The type of establishment can significantly affect overall earnings, combining base salary and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Baristas
For those interested in roles similar to that of a Barista, relevant positions include:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback, all of which involve working closely with beverages and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Thornton
Baristas working in Thornton should be aware of both state and federal labor laws affecting their wages, hours, and workplace rights.
- Information on Colorado labor laws is available at the State of Colorado official website, which provides details on minimum wage, overtime, and employment regulations.
- For federal labor regulations, employees can consult the U.S. Department of Labor official website to understand broader employment standards and protections.