Does Starbucks pay $20 an hour in California?

As of June 27, 2025, the average hourly wage for a Starbucks barista in California is approximately $19.11. This figure is notably higher than the national average, reflecting a 34% increase. While this amount is close to the $20 per hour mark, it does not quite reach it. The higher pay rate in California can be attributed to the state's higher cost of living and the competitive job market in the region. Starbucks aims to attract and retain talent by offering wages that are above the national average, which helps to ensure that their employees can maintain a reasonable standard of living in an expensive state like California. Therefore, while Starbucks does not officially pay $20 an hour, their compensation is still quite competitive and beneficial for their employees.