Baristas
O*NET 35-3023.01 · SOC 35-3023
Barista is a solid career choice. Median pay is $31k a year with +5.8% projected growth through 2035 (about as fast as average) and about 827,400 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Pull espresso shots and steam milk to prepare lattes and cappuccinos.
- →Take customer drink orders and customize beverages to their specifications.
- →Operate and clean espresso machines, grinders, and blenders each shift.
- →Write customer names on cups and call out completed drink orders.
- →Restock coffee beans, syrups, and dairy supplies at the bar station.
Education & How to Get In
Barista roles typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with most training happening on the job. This makes it one of the more accessible career paths, you can often start working while earning certifications or completing short-term training programs.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Barista involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Barista?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Barista Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Baristas is projected to grow 5.8% from 2025 to 2035, about as fast as average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace
- ·31% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Barista make?
The median Barista earns $31k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Barista jobs?
Our model puts Barista at 41 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 30% social/interpersonal tasks, hard for AI to replace; 31% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Barista a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 5.8% between 2025 and 2035, which is about as fast as average. That works out to roughly 827,400 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Barista?
Most Barista roles need a high school diploma or equivalent, with training happening on the job. A degree is not the usual route in.
How long does it take to become a Barista?
Typically under a year, usually a high school diploma plus short training. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 2 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Barista career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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