GraduateSmart
GraduateSmart
Compare trade training routes
Compare trade-school and apprenticeship routes. Check each program’s training length, pay, tuition, fees, and local licensing requirements.
Cut, color, and style hair and provide other beauty services. Massage and treat the scalp, and may also shampoo hair, apply makeup, dress wigs, remove hair, or provide nail and skincare services.
$28,000
Lower reported wage
—
Not available in our data
$70,220
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

Get matched with trade schools, apprenticeships, and certifications.
Create free account →All states require a license; approved training hours and exams vary by state and service. [1]
Search CareerOneStop by occupation and state, then confirm the rules with the issuing agency. Coverage is incomplete; an empty result does not mean no license is required.
About license data coverageU.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
BLS 'Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists' (39-5012). Median hourly $16.95 (~$35,260/yr). 595,000 jobs.
Annual median review, October 27, 2026: The reviewed BLS OOH page reports hourly pay. No annual median has been imported from that evidence, and an hourly rate is not multiplied by assumed annual hours. Work may be part time or intermittent. Sources: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/personal-care-and-service/barbers-hairstylists-and-cosmetologists.htm . Existing employment and projection figures were not refreshed.
Illustration: AI-generated image · Illustrative scene
Ask programs and salons when paid work begins and how wages, tips, booth rental, or commissions apply. [1]
Compare approved-program tuition, kits, exams, license renewal, and early client-building costs.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
A direct program route when state-approved; confirm it qualifies for your desired license. [1]
Consult with clients and provide cutting, styling, and other licensed appearance services. [1]
Cosmetologists work in salons, barbershops, spas, or independently. [1]
Client appointments often include evenings or weekends; self-employed hours vary. [1]
Long standing periods, repetitive hand work, chemicals, hygiene, and customer service require care. [1]
Experience may support specialty services, salon management, or owning a business. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.