Barista Salary in Virginia Beach, VA
Baristas in Virginia Beach, VA, in 2026, earn approximately $15.32 per hour, which translates to about $612.80 per week, $2,655.47 per month, and $31,865.60 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Virginia Beach is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market and increasing interest in specialty coffee and cafe culture in the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Virginia Beach, VA?
The salary of a Barista in Virginia Beach can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,146.07 | $25,752.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.32 | $612.80 | $2,655.47 | $31,865.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.46 | $778.40 | $3,356.27 | $40,436.80 |
Do Baristas in Virginia Beach Earn Tips?
Baristas frequently earn tips in addition to their base salary. Depending on the establishment and shift, a Barista can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which significantly boosts overall earnings.
Barista Salary in Virginia Beach vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.32 per hour, which amounts to about $31,865.60 per year.
Baristas in Virginia Beach earn roughly the same as the national average, indicating that the local market aligns closely with national pay trends for this role.
Factors such as cost of living and local demand contribute to this parity.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Virginia Beach for Baristas
Nearby areas offer variable pay rates for Baristas, with some locations offering better compensation:
- Arlington: $17.21 per hour
- Charlottesville: $16.33 per hour
Baristas willing to commute to Arlington may find significantly higher wages compared to Virginia Beach.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Virginia Beach?
Several factors influence the earnings of a Barista in Virginia Beach:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas skilled in espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Specialty coffee shops and high-end cafes typically offer better wages than fast-food or chain coffee shops.
- Location: Urban centers with greater demand can offer more competitive salaries.
- Certifications and Training: Formal training or certifications can positively impact compensation.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may come with premium pay or higher tipping potential.
How To Become a Barista in Virginia Beach
Starting a career as a Barista in Virginia Beach involves several steps and training options:
- Enroll in Barista Training Workshops: Local options like the Virginia Beach Barista Training Workshops focus on espresso skills, latte art, and customer service to help prepare candidates.
- Pursue Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Tidewater Community College Culinary Arts Program offer courses relevant to coffee preparation and food service.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required to ensure safe handling of food and beverages.
- Consider Specialty Coffee Certifications: Achieving credentials from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification can demonstrate advanced expertise.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Virginia Beach
If you are looking for a Barista position, consider applying at these popular employers in the area:
- Starbucks
- Harris Teeter
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Gold Key | PHR
- Bad Ass Coffee Company
Establishments That Baristas in Virginia Beach Work At
Baristas in Virginia Beach typically find employment across several types of establishments:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Often pay higher salaries and provide an opportunity for skill development with complex coffee preparations.
- Casual Cafes: These may offer moderate pay, with steady customers and regular tipping options.
- Fast Food and Chain Coffee Outlets: Typically provide lower base pay but can offer more consistent hours.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These establishments may pay premium rates due to the upscale setting and higher service expectations.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the salary and tipping opportunities available to Baristas.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Virginia Beach for Baristas
If you’re interested in career paths related to Barista positions, consider exploring the following roles:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Backwaiter roles, each involving related customer service and beverage preparation skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Virginia Beach
Baristas working in Virginia Beach should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax requirements:
- Virginia’s labor laws and employment resources are available on the Virginia government website.
- For federal employment regulations and labor standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.