How Much Do Hair Stylists Make?

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By Danjella Dusanic

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Hair stylists earn an average of $30,000 to $50,000 per year. Hair styling is an important part of many people’s lives, and skilled hair stylists are in high demand.

Whether you’re interested in pursuing a career in hair styling or just curious about how much money hair stylists make, it’s important to understand the factors that affect their earnings. Factors such as location, years of experience, and the salon that they work for can all impact a hair stylist’s income.

In this article, we’ll delve into the details of how much hair stylists can expect to earn, as well as explore some of the highest-paying career paths in the industry.

How Much Do Hair Stylists Make?

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Factors That Determine Hair Stylist Salaries

The hairstyling profession has been around for centuries, and hair stylists play a significant role in the beauty industry. So, how much do hair stylists make? To answer this question, we need to consider various factors that determine their salaries.

We’ll explore the most critical determinants that impact hairstylists’ incomes.

Education And Training Requirements For Hair Stylists

Becoming a professional hairstylist requires education, training, and certification. Generally, hair stylists pursue a cosmetology program, which encompasses 1500 hours of training in hair styling, makeup application, and nail technology. So, how does education impact hairstylists’ salaries? Here are some points to consider:

  • Formal education and certification tend to increase hairstylists’ credibility and enhance their skills. Therefore, hair stylists with degrees and certification may attract more clients and higher salaries.
  • Some salons may require their hair stylists to have a certain degree or certification level, hence increasing their salary expectations.

Years Of Experience And Skillset

The more experienced a hair stylist is, the higher their salary expectations become. Generally, hairstylists gain experience from on-the-job-training, apprenticeship programs, or working in different salons. Here’s how experience and skill set affect hairstylist salary expectations:

  • Experienced hair stylists can charge more for services and attract more clients due to their expertise.
  • Certain skills such as hair coloring, styling, and cutting can increase a hair stylist’s marketability. Therefore, hair stylists with diverse and advanced skills may attract more clients and higher earnings compared to their peers.

Salon Location And Clientele

The location of a salon plays a significant role in determining the hair stylist’s salary. Devoted clients tend to stick to their hairstylists anytime they move to a new salon. Therefore, a hairstylist working in a salon located in a posh neighborhood with exclusive clientele can expect higher earnings than one working in a less prestigious location.

Here are the factors to consider:

  • A salon located in a high-income area appeals to wealthy clients, and hairstylists can charge higher rates to match with clients’ expectations.
  • A salon’s clientele can impact a hair stylist’s salary significantly. Clients who tip well can increase a hair stylist’s earnings, not to mention that they can refer other clients to the stylist.

Type Of Salon: Chain Vs. Independent Salon

The type of salon where a hairstylist works can influence salary expectations. Typically there are two types of salons that hair stylists can work in. They can work in chain salons or independent salons. Here’s how the type of salon can impact salary expectations:

  • Chain salons tend to have uniform pricing, wages, and compensation structures. Therefore, stylists working in these salons may have fewer opportunities to increase their earnings other than their base salary or tips.
  • Independent salons may offer more flexibility in setting service prices, compensation structures, and earnings commissions. As a result, hairstylists working in these salons may earn significantly higher amounts than those working in chain salons.

Commission Vs. Booth Rental

Finally, the compensation structure can influence a hairstylist’s salary significantly. Two primary compensation structures are popular in the hairstyling profession: commission and booth rental. Here’s how these two structures differ and impact earnings:

  • Commission-based compensation structures pay hairstylists a percentage of the services they provide. If a hair stylist works in a salon whose services are in high demand, they can expect higher earnings from commissions.
  • Booth rental compensation structures allow hairstylists to operate independently under the salon license while keeping full control of their earnings. Hairstylists renting a booth space can set their prices, schedule, and marketing strategy, hence increasing their earning potential dramatically.

A hairstylist’s earnings are subject to various factors such as education, experience, skillset, salon location, clientele, and compensation structure. Therefore, hairstylists seeking to increase their salary can leverage these factors to their advantage.

Average Salary Of Hair Stylists In The United States

Discussion About Data Sources

To determine the average salary of hair stylists in the united states, various data sources were used and analyzed. Bls (bureau of labor statistics) and indeed are the most commonly used data sources to determine average salaries and hourly wages of hair stylists.

Apart from these, other advertising sites and recruitment agencies data have also been examined.

  • Bls is the gold standard and is often used for its in-depth analysis of salary data based on various factors such as region, industry, and job description.
  • Indeed is another job search engine that collects data on an ongoing basis from job postings. It provides an instant snapshot of the salary landscape of the hair styling profession.

Overview Of National Average Salary And Hourly Wage For Hair Stylists In The United States

The national average salary and hourly wage for hair stylists vary depending on the data source used and the factors that influence the salary structure. Based on the most recent findings of the bureau of labor statistics, the national average salary and hourly wage for hair stylists in the united states are:

  • Average hourly wage: $15.87
  • Average annual salary: $33,040

Indeed reports that hair stylists in the united states earn an average hourly wage of $12. 49 and an average annual salary of $26,019. It is important to keep in mind that these averages may differ according to geographic region, job experience, salon type, and other factors.

Factors That Influence Salary Differences In Different Regions

The average salary of hair stylists varies significantly across different regions. This variation is due to various factors such as cost of living, salon type, and state wage laws. Here are a few of the top factors that can impact salary differences across regions:

  • Cost of living – a high cost of living typically translates into higher salaries.
  • Region – salaries tend to be higher in larger metropolitan areas due to high demand and higher living expenses.
  • Salon type – salaries for hair stylists vary based on the type of salon at which they are employed. Luxury salons typically pay higher salaries due to the types of clientele and services provided.
  • State wage laws – state laws can impact salaries by establishing minimum wage requirements.

Explanation Of How Individual Income May Differ From Industry Average

It is essential to understand that individual income can differ from the industry average based on various factors such as experience, education, salon type, and geographical location. Here is how individual income can differ from the industry average:

  • Experience – more experienced hair stylists are often paid higher salaries than those with less experience, even if they work in the same area.
  • Education – a hair stylist with additional certifications can earn more than a hair stylist with only basic certifications.
  • Salon type – as mentioned earlier, hair stylists employed at higher-end salons typically earn more than those at basic salons.
  • Geographical location – salaries can vary across different regions within a state or city based on factors such as the local economy and the cost of living. In addition, hair stylists in urban areas may have higher salaries than those in rural areas due to competition and demand.

By understanding these factors, hair stylists can aim to increase their income. However, trends and factors can shift based on new data and circumstances, and it is essential for hair stylists to keep an ear to the ground and stay up-to-date with the trends in the industry.


How Hair Stylists Can Increase Their Earnings

As a hair stylist, the money you make depends on a variety of factors, such as experience level, location, clientele, and type of job. According to the bureau of labor statistics, the average hair stylist makes around $25,000 per year, but this income can increase significantly with the right strategies.

In this section, we will explore tips from experts within the hair styling industry on how to boost income, the different types of salaries and which one may be the most lucrative, marketing tactics and social media strategies to attract larger clientele, and enhance earnings, and training certification and continuous education that make stylists more valuable to clients.

Tips From Experts Within The Hair Styling Industry On How To Boost Income:

  • Develop a specialty: Specializing in a niche area like color correction or hair extensions can help you stand out and charge higher rates.
  • Keep track of your numbers: Keep track of how much money you are making each day, week, and month. This will help you identify patterns and set targets for improvement.
  • Upsell your services: Inform clients of other services like deep conditioning treatments or haircuts that would complement their primary service. This will allow you to make more money per visit.
  • Increase your working hours: Consider increasing your working hours by working on weekends or evenings to accommodate your client’s schedule.
  • Perfect your customer service: Good customer service brings more clients, better tips, and more repeat business. Smile, maintain eye contact, and focus on the client’s needs while they sit in your chair.

Explanation Of Different Types Of Salaries And Which One May Be The Most Lucrative:

  • Hourly wage: This salary structure pays a preset hourly rate, which varies depending on the salon or employer. However, this is generally less lucrative compared to other salary types.
  • Commission: This salary structure pays stylists a percentage of the total service ticket. Typically, commission rates vary between 40-60%.
  • Booth rental: This salary structure involves renting a booth and paying a weekly or monthly fee to use the space, equipment and products. Hair stylists get to keep all their earnings. This can be the most lucrative salary structure if you have a large and loyal clientele.
  • Salary: This salary structure is less common, but several high-end salons and beauty brands offer it. However, this is generally on the lower end of the pay scale.

Marketing Tactics And Social Media Strategies To Attract Larger Clientele And Enhance Earnings:

  • Create a website: A website will enable you to showcase your portfolio, display available services and prices, and provide an opportunity for potential customers to book appointments directly with you.
  • Instagram and facebook ads: Posting frequently on social media platforms such as instagram and facebook increases visibility and showcases a more personal side to your business visually.
  • Referral programs: Offer an incentive for current clients to refer friends to your business. Depending on the incentive, referral programs can extend your clientele and enhance earnings.
  • Host an event: Organizing an evening event that offers free services or discounts for attending can drive traffic to your salon and increase client base.

Training Certification And Continuous Education That Make Stylists More Valuable To Clients:

  • Seminars and workshops: Stay updated with the latest hair trends and techniques by attending industry trade seminars and workshops.
  • Online education: Online classes offer flexibility and in-depth training on topics like color correction, hair extensions, and textures.
  • Masterclasses and mentorship programs: Seek to work with experienced hairdressers to develop unique techniques and gain more experience in hair styling.

By following these tips, hair stylists can increase their income and build a more successful business.

Frequently Asked Questions Of How Much Do Hair Stylists Make?

What Is The Average Salary Of A Hair Stylist?

The average salary of a hair stylist in the us is $29,590 per year. However, the salary can vary depending upon the location, experience, and the type of salon.

Do Hair Stylists Make More Money If They Work In Big Cities?

Hair stylists working in big cities may make more money due to the higher cost of living. They may also have the opportunity to work in high-end salons and serve wealthy clients.

How Much Do Celebrity Hair Stylists Make?

Celebrity hair stylists charge high rates, and their income can range from $200 to $500 per hour or more. They may also receive bonuses and tips from their celebrity clients.

Do Hair Stylists Receive Benefits?

Hair stylists may receive benefits such as health insurance, dental insurance, paid vacations, sick days, and retirement savings plans. However, these benefits may vary depending on the salon and the stylist’s employment type.

Can Hair Stylists Make Tips?

Yes, hair stylists can earn tips, and they are an essential part of their income. Clients usually tip their hair stylists 15-20% of the service cost as a way to show appreciation for their work.

Conclusion

As we come to the end of this blog post, we hope you have gained a better understanding of how much hair stylists make. It’s clear that there are many factors that influence a hair stylist’s salary, such as location, experience, and area of specialization.

While it’s not the highest-paying profession, hair styling can still be a gratifying and lucrative career path for those who have a passion for it. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in the business for years, it’s essential to stay up to date with the latest trends and techniques to stay competitive and in-demand.

Overall, with the right skills, dedication, and drive, a career in hair styling can offer a fulfilling and rewarding experience both financially and creatively.

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