Coffee Shop Labor Market Analysis
Bureau of Labor Statistics + Industry Survey Data 2025

Wage Benchmarks by Market:

Entry-Level Barista (hourly):
- High-cost metros (SF, NYC, Seattle): $19-24
- Medium-cost metros: $16-20
- Low-cost markets: $13-17
- National average: $17.40

Shift Lead/Senior Barista:
- High-cost metros: $22-28
- Medium-cost metros: $18-24
- Low-cost markets: $15-20
- National average: $20.80

Assistant Manager:
- Range: $45,000-62,000 annually
- Average: $52,000

General Manager:
- Range: $55,000-85,000 annually
- Average: $67,000

Benefits Landscape:
- Health insurance offered: 34% of shops
- Paid time off: 41% of shops
- 401k/retirement: 18% of shops
- Free/discounted product: 94% of shops

Turnover Rates:
- Industry average: 73% annually
- Best-in-class: 25-35% annually
- Cost per turnover: $3,200-4,800

Labor as % of Revenue:
- Target range: 28-35%
- Average: 32%
- High performers: 26-30%

Hiring Challenges:
- Average time to fill position: 21 days
- Application quality decline: 34% report
- Competition for talent: 78% report increased
