Baristas Salary in North Carolina
Baristas in North Carolina earn a median of $28,570 a year, −8% 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
- $28,570
- vs. U.S. median
- −8% ($31,200)
- Rank among states
- 35 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 92,230
Pay range in North Carolina
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $21,800; the top 10% earn over $36,820. Nationally the range is $22,840 to $42,650.
States ranked near North Carolina
Similar jobs in North Carolina
- Butchers and Meat Cutters$38,240 median in North Carolina
- Dining Room and Cafeteria Attendants and Bartender Helpers$27,560 median in North Carolina
- Cooks, Fast Food$27,190 median in North Carolina
- Fast Food and Counter Workers$28,570 median in North Carolina
- Waiters and Waitresses$32,150 median in North Carolina
- Food Servers, Nonrestaurant$31,460 median in North Carolina
Baristas pay in North Carolina
How much do baristas make in North Carolina?
The median is $28,570 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $21,800 and the top 10% earn over $36,820. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is North Carolina a good state for baristas?
On pay alone it ranks 35 of 51 (−8% vs. the national median of $31,200). Living costs are not included.