According to the labor market data, average salaries for hair stylists and barbers across the USA in 2025 are expected to fall between $38,000 and $45,000 annually. The entry-level salary is closer to $30,000. A few stylists and barbers with a lot of experience working at upscale salons or in cities can make above $60,000 a year.
These numbers reflect wages before factoring in other income sources such as tips, commissions, and bonuses, which can greatly change a barber’s or stylist’s final take-home pay, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Tips and commissions
Normally an individualized income scheme is based on respective earnings or sales performance, where commissions are earned for sales. Many salons make use of an additional component like tipping. Hair stylists and barbers rely chiefly on tips from their clients.
Paid pretty much the same as any other salary with slight variations depending on their clients, this tip supplemented their income with an extra 15% to 30%. For example, an average barber might earn a base amount of $40,000 but may earn an additional $6,000 to $12,000 on tips over the year.
Most salons offer other forms of pay, as they give commissions for their work and share in the profits once they sell a particular product. Some will bring in an extra two or three thousand dollars in a year, depending on how the establishment works and how good the stylist is.
Salary with Allowances and Benefits
When allowances and benefits are included, the total compensation package for a hairstylist or barber in 2025 often rises considerably. Some of the common allowances include
- Health insurance contributions
- Paid time off (vacation and sick leave)
- Retirement plan matches (like 401(k))
- Education reimbursement for training and certifications
- Tool or uniform allowances
When factoring in these benefits, the “total compensation value” for a full-time stylist or barber can range between $45,000 and $55,000 a year, depending on the employer and location.
Freelancers or self-employed stylists, however, must cover their own benefits, insurance, and retirement savings, though they may have higher earnings potential, especially if they build a strong clientele.
Factors That Influence Earnings
Several factors can greatly affect how much a barber or hair stylist earns in the U.S.:
- Location: Stylists in cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Miami typically command higher prices and tips than those in rural areas.
- Experience: Senior stylists with large client bases earn far more than new entrants.
- Specialties: Stylists trained in coloring, extensions, or specialty haircuts can charge premium rates.
- Salon Type: High-end salons, resorts, and destination spas often pay better than walk-in franchises.
- Self-Employment: Owning a barbershop or working independently allows control over pricing but also comes with overhead costs.
In 2025, one can expect a really good income for a hairstylist or barber in the U.S., even without tips, commissions, and allowances. Many can see themselves achieving significantly beyond the national average with a passion for the profession and skill development with good business practices.
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