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Starbucks is one of the most recognizable coffee brands in the world, and also one of the most sought-after employers in the food and beverage industry.
With its focus on community, inclusivity, and sustainability, Starbucks markets itself as more than just a place to grab coffee.
But for those considering a job with the company in 2025, the real question is: how much does Starbucks actually pay its employees?
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This article explores the reality behind Starbucks’ wages, perks, and promotion opportunities. Whether you’re thinking about applying or just curious about what baristas and managers earn, you’ll find honest, up-to-date answers here.
Let’s take a closer look at pay rates across roles and states, what kind of raises and benefits you can expect, and whether a Starbucks job can really support a decent living in 2025.
How Much Do Starbucks Employees Get Paid in 2025?
Starbucks pay rates vary depending on job title, experience level, and location. In 2025, the company continues to adjust wages to stay competitive with other major chains like Dunkin’, Peet’s Coffee, and fast-food employers such as McDonald’s and Chipotle.
Average Hourly Pay by Role
| Position | Average Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Barista | $15.25 |
| Shift Supervisor | $18.75 |
| Assistant Store Manager | $22.00 |
| Store Manager | $73,000/year |
| District Manager | $105,000/year |
These averages are drawn from platforms like Glassdoor, PayScale, and Indeed, and reflect both corporate-owned and licensed Starbucks locations.
Key Pay Influencers:
- Location (state/city)
- Full-time vs. part-time status
- Experience and performance reviews
- Unionization status (some unionized locations negotiate higher wages)
Entry-level baristas typically start at $15/hour in most states, with higher rates in urban areas or unionized stores. Store managers can earn $70K+ annually, plus bonuses.
Which States Pay the Most (and the Least)?
Location significantly affects wages at Starbucks. Here are the five states that pay the most and the least to baristas as of 2025:
Top 5 Highest-Paying States
| State | Average Barista Pay |
| California | $17.50 |
| Washington | $17.00 |
| Massachusetts | $16.75 |
| Oregon | $16.50 |
| New York | $16.25 |
5 States with the Lowest Pay
| State | Average Barista Pay |
| Mississippi | $12.25 |
| Alabama | $12.50 |
| Kentucky | $12.75 |
| West Virginia | $13.00 |
| Arkansas | $13.25 |
Urban locations, such as New York City and San Francisco, may offer additional cost-of-living incentives or shift differentials of up to $2/hour for peak or overnight shifts.
Raises, Bonuses, and Promotions: How Fast Can You Grow?
Starbucks promotes a culture of internal growth and offers structured advancement paths for employees. Raises and promotions are based on performance, tenure, and location.
How Raises Work:
- Annual performance-based raises
- $0.50 to $1.50/hour increase typical per review cycle
- Unionized stores may receive higher scheduled raises
Promotions Pathway:
| Starting Role | Next Steps |
| Barista | Shift Supervisor → Assistant Manager → Store Manager |
| Shift Supervisor | Assistant Manager → Store Manager |
Promotions to shift supervisor roles can occur within 6-12 months for high-performing employees. Full-time workers are more likely to be considered for advancement.
Incentives & Bonuses:
- Quarterly performance bonuses (store-based)
- Holiday pay (1.5x) for eligible holidays
- Stock grants (Bean Stock) for long-term employees
Benefits You Didn’t Expect from Starbucks Jobs
One of Starbucks’ biggest strengths is its robust benefits package, which extends to many part-time employees working at least 20 hours per week.
Health & Wellness
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- Life insurance and disability coverage
- Mental health services and counseling
Financial & Education Support
- 401(k) with company match
- Bean Stock (employee stock program)
- College Achievement Plan: free tuition for an online degree through Arizona State University
- Emergency financial grants via CUP Fund
Lifestyle Perks
- Free drink and food items during shifts
- 30% discount on all products in-store
- Commuter benefits in select cities
- Paid time off and parental leave
Starbucks is one of the few employers in the industry to offer such extensive perks to both part-time and full-time team members.
Can You Actually Live on a Starbucks Salary?
Living on a Starbucks salary depends on your role, location, and lifestyle. Let’s break it down by typical monthly gross income versus average living costs.
Estimated Monthly Gross Pay (Full-Time)
| Position | Monthly Pay Estimate |
| Barista | $2,440 |
| Shift Supervisor | $3,000 |
| Assistant Manager | $3,800 |
| Store Manager | $6,100 |
Average Monthly Living Costs
| City | Living Cost Estimate |
| Tulsa, OK | $1,800 |
| Denver, CO | $2,600 |
| San Francisco, CA | $3,800+ |
In smaller cities or shared living situations, baristas can live comfortably and even save money. In larger metro areas, a barista’s wage may not cover all costs unless supplemented by tips, roommates, or a partner’s income. However, those in supervisory roles and above tend to fare better even in expensive markets.
Conclusion: Is It Worth Working at Starbucks in 2025?
Starbucks remains one of the most attractive hourly employers in the country in 2025. It offers more than a paycheck – it provides a gateway to long-term stability, education, and growth.
With a clearly defined promotional track, excellent benefits, and a strong cultural focus on employee well-being, many find Starbucks to be a fulfilling job option.
For entry-level workers, barista pay may not be enough to support an independent lifestyle in major cities, but it works well for students, part-timers, and those seeking extra income.
The generous perks, including health care and education, often outweigh a slightly lower hourly rate compared to tech or specialized jobs.
Ultimately, Starbucks is best suited for those who value meaningful work, great team environments, and opportunities for personal and professional development.
If those values align with yours, then yes – Starbucks is absolutely worth it.
FAQ
1. Do Starbucks employees get paid weekly or biweekly?
Biweekly, across most U.S. locations.
2. Is there a minimum number of hours to receive benefits?
Yes. Most benefits start at 20 hours/week.
3. Do part-time baristas qualify for tuition assistance?
Yes, through the College Achievement Plan with ASU.
4. How much do Starbucks employees make in tips?
Tips vary, but baristas typically earn $1–2 extra per hour in pooled tips.
5. Is Starbucks a good job for students?
Yes. Flexible hours, tuition help, and part-time benefits make it ideal.
6. How fast can you get promoted?
Many are promoted within 6–12 months based on performance.
7. What’s the dress code at Starbucks?
Employees wear a green apron with neutral-colored shirts/pants.
8. Do employees get free drinks?
Yes. One free food item and drink per shift, plus a 30% discount.
9. Can I transfer to another store or state?
Yes, internal transfers are common and supported.
10. Is union membership required?
No. Some stores are unionized, but joining is voluntary.