Baristas Salary in California
Baristas in California earn a median of $42,280 a year, +36% compared with the U.S. median. Figures are for the broader BLS group “Fast Food and Counter Workers”.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $42,280
- vs. U.S. median
- +36% ($31,200)
- Rank among states
- 1 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 449,840
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,530; the top 10% earn over $47,950. Nationally the range is $22,840 to $42,650.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Butchers and Meat Cutters$44,290 median in California
- Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers$36,010 median in California
- Cooks, Fast Food$42,050 median in California
- Fast Food and Counter Workers$42,280 median in California
- Waiters and Waitresses$36,080 median in California
- Food Servers, Nonrestaurant$39,010 median in California
Baristas pay in California
How much do baristas make in California?
The median is $42,280 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $35,530 and the top 10% earn over $47,950. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for baristas?
On pay alone it ranks 1 of 51 (+36% vs. the national median of $31,200). Living costs are not included.