Barista Salary in West Covina, CA
Baristas in West Covina, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.21 per hour, which translates to about $768.40 per week, $3,329.73 per month, and $39,956.80 per year.
The demand for Baristas in West Covina is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the local coffee and café scene.
How Much Does a Barista Make in West Covina, CA?
The salary of a Barista in West Covina varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table provides an overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.28 | $691.20 | $2,993.60 | $35,923.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.21 | $768.40 | $3,329.73 | $39,956.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.17 | $926.80 | $4,010.93 | $48,113.60 |
Do Baristas in West Covina Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas often earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can typically make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall earnings depending on the establishment and shift.
Barista Salary in West Covina vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 per year.
Baristas in West Covina earn noticeably more with an average hourly wage of $19.21 and a yearly income of $39,956.80. This difference reflects the higher cost of living in California as well as strong local demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near West Covina for Baristas
Nearby locations offering higher pay for Baristas include:
- Downtown West Covina: $20.50 per hour
- South Hills: $21.00 per hour
These areas often provide better compensation due to factors such as busier establishments and higher living costs.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in West Covina?
Several factors can affect how much a Barista earns in West Covina:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Baristas with advanced skills like latte art tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working at specialty coffee shops or upscale cafés generally offers better pay compared to fast-food chains or casual spots.
- Customer Service and Sales Ability: Baristas who boost sales or have excellent customer rapport may receive bonuses or better tips.
- Shift Timing and Hours Worked: Working busy shifts, nights, or weekends can sometimes increase hourly rates or tip opportunities.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wage rates in West Covina reflect the regional cost of living and demand for skilled Baristas.
How To Become a Barista in West Covina
Starting out as a Barista in West Covina requires a blend of training, experience, and customer service skills.
- Enroll in Barista Training Programs: Programs such as the Barista Training Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College provide comprehensive instruction on espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service.
- Attend Specialty Courses: The Coffee Business School of America offers valuable courses on brewing techniques, equipment maintenance, and café management.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of safe food handling, while the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Certification recognizes proficiency in coffee preparation standards.
- Gain Work Experience: Starting as a café assistant or in entry-level roles helps build practical skills and customer interaction experience.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in West Covina
Some prominent employers looking to hire Baristas in West Covina include:
- Starbucks
- Tierra Mia Coffee
- Porto's Bakery
Establishments That Baristas in West Covina Work At
Baristas in West Covina work in various types of establishments, each influencing pay differently:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: Typically offer the highest wages and better tipping opportunities due to quality focus and customer base.
- Cafés and Casual Dining: Moderate pay with steady hours and occasional tips.
- Fast Food and Convenience Stores: Generally lower base wages and fewer tips but more entry-level opportunities.
- Bakery Cafés: Provide combined experience in coffee and baked goods retail.
The type of establishment often determines the average pay and flexibility of work schedules.
Related Hospitality Jobs in West Covina for Baristas
If you're exploring careers related to being a Barista, you might consider roles with overlapping skills and hospitality environments.
These include Bartender, Barback, and Cashier roles, which share customer service and beverage preparation tasks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in West Covina
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Baristas working in West Covina.
- For California state labor laws and workplace regulations visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers information on state employment benefits and tax services.
- Federal labor laws and worker rights can be accessed at the U.S. Department of Labor.