What Restaurants Do Bakers Make the Most Money at in Reno?

The average hourly pay for Bakers in Reno is currently about $18 per hour, with top employers frequently offering higher rates or attractive benefits. However, pay can fluctuate based on the type of bakery, reputation, location and experience level involved.

In this guide, we’ll explore where Bakers in Reno earn the most and what factors drive higher wages in the city’s vibrant baking industry. We’ll share the best spots for maximizing your salary plus tips to help you break into high-paying baking roles.

Top-Paying Restaurants for Bakers in Reno

Reno’s food scene offers a variety of opportunities for Bakers seeking higher wages and career growth. From European-style bakeries to bustling brunch hotspots, these establishments are known for competitive pay and the chance to develop expertise in artisan breads, pastries and custom desserts.

Here are some of Reno’s best places for Bakers to maximize their earnings:

1. Perenn Bakery

Perenn Bakery is a local favorite renowned for its handcrafted croissants and seasonal pastries. With a reputation for quality and frequent media buzz, it attracts a loyal following and offers Bakers the chance to work with top-tier ingredients — and wages to match.

2. Josef's Vienna Bakery & Cafe

This classic European-style bakery has been a Reno staple for over 35 years. Bakers here master traditional techniques and often gain access to higher-than-average pay thanks to the bakery’s consistent business and strong community reputation.

3. Homage Bakery

Homage focuses on made-from-scratch, locally sourced breads and sweets. This bakery is known for its supportive work environment and offers competitive pay, especially for Bakers with experience in creative and artisanal baking methods.

4. House of Bread Reno

Part of a respected franchise, House of Bread Reno is famous for its specialty breads and welcoming atmosphere. Bakers here enjoy steady hours, benefits and solid pay structure — ideal for both early-career and seasoned professionals.

5. Rounds Bakery

Rounds Bakery is well-known for its New York-style bagels, unique “cruffins” and gluten-free options. The bakery’s fast-paced growth and focus on innovation make it an exciting (and lucrative) place for Bakers who want to hone their skills.

6. Two Chicks

Though primarily a popular breakfast and brunch spot, Two Chicks is also recognized for its house-made baked goods. Bakers working here have access to reliable hours and thanks to high demand, higher-than-average hourly rates, especially during weekends.

The Impact of Restaurant Type on Baker Earnings

Upscale vs. Casual Bakeries

Earnings for Bakers in Reno can vary substantially depending on the nature of the establishment. Upscale bakeries, specialty patisseries or well-known cafes tend to offer higher hourly wages, better tips (if customer-facing) and often, benefits such as insurance or paid time off.

Location and Clientele

Bakeries situated in Reno’s most bustling areas — like Midtown, Downtown or near casino districts — see higher foot traffic and can afford to pay more experienced Bakers. Establishments that serve dine-in crowds, cater to luxury hotels or are situated in tourist-friendly spots usually have better compensation packages.

Experience, Skills and Certifications

Skilled Bakers with expertise in artisan bread, pastries or even gluten-free baking often negotiate higher salaries. Earning a baking certificate or culinary degree and developing a strong portfolio are additional ways to unlock better pay.

How To Find a High Paying Baker Job in Reno

• Tailor Your Resume and Portfolio: Highlight artisan baking skills, experience with high-volume production and any certifications or special trainings.
• Network with Local Bakers: Attend local food festivals, Reno’s farmer’s markets and culinary expos to meet bakery owners and learn about open positions before they’re posted.
• Apply in Person: Drop by bakeries during off-peak hours; personal connections go a long way in local establishments.
• Prepare for Skills Tests: Many bakeries will ask you to bake or finish pastries as part of their hiring process, so continual practice is a must.
• Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Share your passion for baking and your knowledge of the Reno food scene — employers love to see commitment to the craft.

What’s the Outlook for Baker Jobs in Reno in 2025 and Beyond?

The job outlook for Bakers in Reno is positive moving into 2025 and beyond. Nationally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects Baker roles to grow about 5% between 2022 and 2032 — a faster pace than many food service occupations.

In Reno, the rise of artisan bakeries and expanding café scenes are fueling demand for skilled Bakers, especially those with creative and specialty skills. The city’s steady population growth and popularity as a regional tourist destination should further sustain strong hiring for Baker positions.

Bakers willing to work early hours, tackle new recipes and keep up with seasonal demand are especially likely to find consistent employment and strong earning power.

Is a Baker’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Reno?

With an average wage of $18 per hour, a full-time Baker in Reno can expect to make around $37,000 a year (before taxes). At top bakeries, annual compensation can climb over $42,000 with overtime or bonuses.

Here’s how the typical monthly costs compare:

• 1-Bedroom Apartment (city center): $1,250–$1,500
• Utilities (including internet): $180–$220
• Groceries: $300–$400
• Car/transportation: $200–$350

Bakers working at leading establishments or taking on extra shifts can comfortably cover living expenses and save modestly, especially compared to other Western U.S. cities of similar size. However, those just entering the field or working part-time may find it necessary to budget carefully or share housing.

Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Reno Baker Jobs

We selected these Reno bakeries and restaurants based on their advertised pay rates, employee reviews, benefits packages and reputation in the local food community. Additional key factors included:

• Consistent foot traffic: Bakeries with steady sales can afford higher base wages and overtime
• Training and advancement: Opportunities for Bakers to learn new techniques or move into management roles
• Positive workplace reputation: Venues known for valuing and supporting their kitchen staff
• Location: Easy access to busy Reno neighborhoods, tourist zones or major event venues

Competitive pay, skill development and employee well-being were our guiding criteria in recommending these workplaces for ambitious Bakers in Reno.