Bakers in Evanston typically earn an hourly wage around $17 per hour, though this can vary significantly based on the type of establishment and the Baker’s level of experience. While the base pay sets a foundation, many factors influence a Baker’s total earnings in this diverse market.
If you're curious about which restaurants or bakeries in Evanston pay Bakers the most, you’ve come to the right place. This article will explore the top spots that offer lucrative pay as well as the factors that affect Baker salaries in the area, helping you better evaluate your options.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bakers in Evanston, IL- 1. The Baking Grounds Coffeehouse
- 2. Ladro Coffee
- 3. Batter & Dough
- 4. Evanston Sourdough
- 5. Brickstone Bakery
- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Baker Earnings in Evanston
- How To Find a High Paying Baker Job in Evanston
- What’s the Outlook for Baker Jobs in Evanston in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Baker’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Evanston?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Evanston Baker Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bakers in Evanston, IL
Evanston’s vibrant food scene offers Bakers numerous opportunities to earn competitive wages, whether in bustling cafes, artisanal bakeries or high-end restaurants. Here are some notable establishments where Bakers tend to earn more:
1. The Baking Grounds Coffeehouse
Known for its artisanal breads and creative pastries, The Baking Grounds Coffeehouse has built a reputation on quality and innovation. Bakers here benefit from a steady flow of customers and an emphasis on handcrafted baked goods that command premium pricing.
2. Ladro Coffee
A local favorite, Ladro Coffee combines specialty coffee with an impressive pastry menu. Its focus on high-quality ingredients offers Bakers the chance to showcase their skills in a busy, upscale environment with consistent earnings.
3. Batter & Dough
Batter & Dough is a bakery and cafe famous for its fresh cookies and inventive dough-based treats. This spot provides Bakers with a creative workspace and the ability to earn more through a strong customer base focused on indulgent specialty items.
4. Evanston Sourdough
Specializing in naturally fermented sourdough breads, Evanston Sourdough rewards skilled Bakers who understand traditional methods. Its niche market and dedicated clientele mean premium prices and better pay for expert craftsmanship.
5. Brickstone Bakery
Brickstone Bakery is recognized for both its breakfast pastries and custom cake orders. Bakers enjoy a well-respected work environment and competitive pay tied to quality and customer satisfaction.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Baker Earnings in Evanston
Bakers’ wages in Evanston fluctuate depending on several key factors related to the type of employer and bakery or restaurant format.
Upscale bakeries and fine dining restaurants typically pay higher hourly rates or salaries to Bakers who possess advanced skills in artisanal bread making, cake decorating or pastry arts. These businesses often serve wealthier clientele expecting premium quality and presentation.
Contrastingly, fast casual or chain bakery outlets may offer lower fixed hourly wages but compensate with consistent scheduling and higher volume, allowing for regular hours and steady earnings.
- Experience Requirements: Employers offering specialty baked goods or custom orders generally seek Bakers with certifications or extensive training, increasing pay potential.
- Location and Clientele: Bakeries closer to university campuses or trendy neighborhoods may benefit from higher prices which translates into better compensation for bakery staff.
- Certifications and Skills: Knowledge of pastry arts, cake decorating or specialized bread techniques often results in pay increases.
How To Find a High Paying Baker Job in Evanston
Target the Right Establishments
Look for bakeries and restaurants known for artisanal or high-end baked products. Research reviews and menus online, focusing on places with premium offerings and positive employee feedback.
Enhance Your Skills and Credentials
Completing baking certifications or pastry arts programs can significantly improve your competitiveness and qualify you for roles with higher pay and responsibility.
Customize Your Application
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant baking skills, experience with specific techniques and any customer service expertise for client-facing roles.
Network Within the Local Culinary Community
Attend food-related events, workshops or farmer’s markets where you can meet potential employers or fellow Bakers. Personal recommendations often open doors in the Evanston food scene.
Prepare Well for Interviews
Learn about the bakery’s specialties, demonstrate your knowledge, and present samples or photos of your work if possible. Show enthusiasm and flexibility to stand out.
What’s the Outlook for Baker Jobs in Evanston in 2025 and Beyond?
The job market for Bakers in Evanston is expected to remain steady with modest growth through 2025 and beyond. Increased consumer interest in artisanal, locally sourced and specialty baked goods supports demand for skilled Bakers.
According to labor market data, Baker employment nationwide is projected to grow about 6% over the next decade, and Evanston’s expanding culinary scene aligns well with this trend. The city’s demographics and university presence foster a constant demand for both casual and upscale bakeries.
Additionally, the growth in farmers markets, specialty coffee shops and boutique cafes around Evanston presents further opportunities for Bakers to find niche positions that pay well and offer creative fulfillment.
Is a Baker’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Evanston?
At an average wage of around $17 per hour, Bakers in Evanston can expect an annual income near $35,000 before taxes based on full-time employment. However, many bake shops offer part-time or seasonal roles, influencing total earnings.
Evanston’s cost of living is somewhat higher than the nationwide average but generally more affordable than nearby Chicago. Approximate monthly expenses for a single adult include:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent: $1,200 - $1,500
- Utilities: $150 - $200
- Groceries: $300 - $400
- Transportation: $70 - $120
Bakers who secure positions in higher-paying establishments or supplement their income with tips or overtime can often comfortably cover these costs. Those working part-time or entry-level positions may need to budget carefully or seek additional sources of income.
Overall, it’s possible to live well in Evanston on a Baker’s income by choosing roles strategically and managing living expenses prudently.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Evanston Baker Jobs
The Baker jobs listed here were selected based on comprehensive research across employment listings, local reviews and industry insights to identify the best pay and quality of work environments.
Location Proximity
We prioritized bakeries located near bustling neighborhoods, university campuses or popular shopping districts where customer demand and spending tend to be higher — positively impacting pay.
Employer Reputation
Establishments with strong reputations for quality, customer loyalty and fair employee treatment were favored to ensure sustainable, rewarding work experiences.
Wage and Benefits Offering
Jobs offering above-average hourly wages, opportunities for tips or bonuses and benefits such as healthcare or paid time off were weighed heavily in our assessment.
These combined factors work to maximize earnings potential and job satisfaction for Bakers in Evanston’s competitive culinary landscape.
