Take just three simple steps below to generate your own personalized salary report
Step 1 of 3
Understand the total compensation opportunity for a Hairdresser/Hairstylist, base salary plus other pay elements
Includes base and annual incentives
These charts show the average base salary [core compensation], as well as the average total cash compensation for the job of Hairdresser/Hairstylist in the United States. The base salary for Hairdresser/Hairstylist ranges from $22,977 to $33,979 with the average base salary of $27,673. The total cash compensation, which includes base, and annual incentives, can vary anywhere from $22,977 to $35,317 with the average total cash compensation of $28,417.
You could get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
You could take a course at college that will give you some of the skills and knowledge to do this job.
Courses include:
- Level 2 or 3 Diploma in Hairdressing
- T Level in Hair, Beauty and Aesthetics
You may be able to combine these courses with other subjects like beauty therapy, make-up and nails.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 or more GCSEs at grades 9 to 3 [A* to D], or equivalent, for a level 2 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 [A* to C], or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 [A* to C], or equivalent, including English and maths for a T level
More Information
The following apprenticeships may be relevant to this role:
- Level 2 hair professional
- Level 3 advanced and creative hair professional
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 [A* to C], or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
More Information
You may be able start work as a trainee hairdresser in a salon and learn on the job. Your employer would expect you to take qualifications part-time, either at a college or in their own training school.
You may be able to work freelance and rent space in a salon, though you may have to supply your own equipment.
With experience and an interest in business, you could move up to manage or own your own salon. If this is your aim, it may help to gain some business qualifications alongside hairdressing experience.
Further information
You can find out more about careers in hairdressing from the Hair and Beauty Industry Authority and National Hair and Beauty Federation.
|
Average base salary
Data source tooltip for average base salary.The average salary for a hair stylist is $20.47 per hour in the United States. 15.7k salaries reported, updated at March 7, 2022.
| Less than 1 year | |
| 1 to 2 years | |
| 3 to 5 years | |
| 6 to 9 years | |
| More than 10 years |
View job openings with the years of experience that is relevant to you on Indeed
Entry LevelMid LevelSenior Level
View jobsMedical License
+53.50%salarySalaries by qualifications
Licenses
| 11 jobs | 17 |
- 401[k]
- 401[k] matching
- Childcare
- Continuing education credits
- Dental insurance
- Disability insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Free massages
- Free parking
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Opportunities for advancement
- Paid sick time
- Paid time off
- Paid training
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
- Profit sharing
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Salary satisfaction
Based on 4,906 ratings37% of Hair Stylists in the United States think their salaries are enough for the cost of living in their area.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly as a hair stylist?
If you’re unsure about what salary is appropriate for a hair stylist, visit Indeed's Salary Calculator to get a free, personalized pay range based on your location, industry and experience.
Was this answer helpful?
How much do similar professions to hair stylist get paid?
View more frequently asked questions