In Salt Lake City, the average hourly wage for a Baker is around $16–$20 per hour, with experienced Bakers at top establishments often earning more through bonuses and overtime. Salaries for Bakers can vary quite a bit depending on the bakery’s style, clientele and reputation.
If you’re asking yourself, “Where can Bakers make the most money in Salt Lake City?” — you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll highlight Salt Lake’s highest-paying bakeries and restaurants and discuss the factors that can influence your earnings as a Baker in this market.
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bakers in Salt Lake City- The Impact of Restaurant Type on Baker Earnings
- How To Find a High Paying Baker Job in Salt Lake City
- What’s the Outlook for Baker Jobs in Salt Lake City in 2025 and Beyond?
- Is a Baker’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Salt Lake City?
- Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Salt Lake City Baker Jobs
Top-Paying Restaurants for Bakers in Salt Lake City
Salt Lake City’s food scene is flourishing, and a handful of bakeries and restaurants have built a reputation for premium pay and supportive work environments for baking staff. Here’s where skilled Bakers are most likely to maximize their income in the city:
Gourmandise The Bakery
A downtown staple for more than 25 years, Gourmandise is known for its artisanal European pastries, cakes and breads. Bakers here work with high-quality ingredients and experienced staff are rewarded with above-average hourly wages and tips from a loyal clientele.
Eva’s Bakery
Eva’s Bakery brings a French-inspired approach to Main Street, offering everything from viennoiseries to rustic loaves. Their emphasis on local sourcing and craft means Bakers often command higher wages — especially those with a knack for lamination and classic pastry technique.
Les Madeleines
Les Madeleines is world-renowned for introducing the Kouign-amann to Utah. The bakery has won multiple awards and provides exceptional training and compensation for Bakers who can master their intricate, unique pastries.
Rye Diner & Drinks
Known for its bustling brunch scene and creative bread program, Rye recruits Bakers who can handle both bread and pastry prep. Competitive wages and regular raises make this a favorite spot for ambitious Bakers seeking growth.
Tulie Bakery
A local favorite celebrated for its simple, flawless pastries and sourdough, Tulie pays a premium for seasoned Bakers who are passionate about naturally leavened bread and morning prep shifts.
The Bagel Project
Specializing in authentic, hand-rolled bagels, The Bagel Project values Bakers who can replicate New York-style quality. Consistent high demand and profit-sharing contribute to higher-than-average earnings at this unique spot.
The Impact of Restaurant Type on Baker Earnings
Baker salaries in Salt Lake City depend on more than just experience. The type of establishment has a significant influence on your earnings. Here’s a breakdown of the main factors:
- Upscale vs. Casual: Artisan bakeries and destination restaurants tend to offer higher pay and benefits compared to supermarket bakeries or chains.
- Location: Bakeries in downtown Salt Lake City or trendy neighborhoods often generate more business, enabling them to pay experienced Bakers more.
- Certifications & Special Skills: Bakers with specialties in sourdough, Viennoiserie, gluten-free or cake decorating can negotiate higher wages, especially in shops known for a specific niche.
- Shift Timing: Overnight and early-morning shifts sometimes come with a pay differential, reflecting the challenging hours Bakers keep to get everything ready for the morning rush.
Ultimately, the most lucrative Baker jobs combine a high-quality brand, busy location and the chance to build a specialized skillset.
How To Find a High Paying Baker Job in Salt Lake City
Want to land a top-paying bakery job? Here’s how to stand out and get hired:
- Perfect your resume by highlighting artistry in bread, pastry or cake design and detail any special certifications (like ServSafe).
- Build a visual portfolio (Instagram or website) to showcase your skills and unique creations — many top bakeries will ask for photos of your work.
- Network locally: Attend bakery events, farmers’ markets and industry meetups in Salt Lake City to meet hiring managers and bakery owners in person.
- Craft a personalized cover letter showing your knowledge of the bakery and passion for their style.
- Prep for practical interviews: Many bakeries require a baking test. Practice signature recipes that spotlight your technique and consistency.
- Apply early, as the best baking positions are snapped up quickly especially before busy holiday seasons.
What’s the Outlook for Baker Jobs in Salt Lake City in 2025 and Beyond?
The demand for Bakers in Salt Lake City is projected to increase through 2025, mirroring national trends reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. As interest in artisanal food and local ingredients grows, so does the need for talented Bakers.
Salt Lake City’s population growth and booming hospitality sector ensure a steady stream of opportunities — especially in new cafes, boutique bakeries and restaurants expanding their pastry programs.
Bakers who pursue advanced skills or are open to working early shifts will find themselves especially in demand, with job growth in the range of 5–7% annually expected for the next several years.
Is a Baker’s Salary Enough to Live Well in Salt Lake City?
With average Baker pay in Salt Lake City at $16–$20 per hour ($33,000–$41,000 annually for full-time staff), making ends meet is doable though budgeting is crucial.
Here are some typical monthly expenses:
- 1-bedroom apartment (city center): $1,300–$1,600
- Utilities and internet: $150–$200
- Groceries: $300–$400
- Transit/gas: $100–$150
Bakers working at top spots with overtime or those in supervisory positions can earn closer to $45,000+. This allows for a comfortable lifestyle — especially when factoring in Salt Lake’s lower cost of living compared to other metro cities.
Our Criteria for Choosing Top-Paying Salt Lake City Baker Jobs
Why These Bakeries?
Our selection is grounded in industry research, local reviews and direct feedback from Salt Lake City’s baking professionals. We considered places repeatedly mentioned for competitive pay and opportunities for skill development.
What We Looked For
- Above-market wages for Bakers plus pathways for advancement
- Positive work culture and benefits (health, PTO, profit share)
- Central, busy locations within Salt Lake City proper
- Reputation for quality and creativity attracting dedicated clientele
We aim to highlight bakeries and restaurants where you can build a rewarding career, not just earn a paycheck.
