Barber
Cut hair, shape beards and keep clients sharp.
- $38,210
- 9–15 months
Beauty, Fitness & Personal Care career
Cosmetologist
Also called: Hairstylist · Hairdresser · Hair Colorist · Beautician
What cosmetologists do, what they earn, how long training takes and how to get started, with official BLS pay data and practical, job-level detail.
What does a cosmetologist do?
Hairdressers, hairstylists and cosmetologists cut, color and style hair and may provide other beauty services, building a loyal clientele in salons and spas. The median pay is $35,790 per year (BLS, May 2025), most people train for about 9–18 months, and employment is projected to grow +7.7% from 2025–35.
Pay data: BLS OEWS, May 2025 · Outlook: BLS 2025–35 · Checked October 15, 2026
- Median pay$35,790$17.21/hour · May 2025
- Job growth+7.7%2025–35, much faster than average
- Openings per year73,400Average, 2025–35
- Typical entry educationPostsecondary nondegree awardBLS classification
- Time to train9–18 monthsTypical program length
- U.S. jobs595,000Employment, 2025
What cosmetologists do
Cosmetologists help people look and feel great. They consult with clients, cut, color, highlight, perm and style hair, and may offer services such as makeup, waxing and nails depending on their license. They also recommend products, keep tools sanitized and build a book of repeat clients.
Cosmetologists complete a state-approved cosmetology program and pass a state licensing exam. Required hours vary widely by state. Many stylists work on commission, rent a booth or open their own salons, so business and social media skills matter.
Typical duties
- Consult with clients on styles and services
- Cut, color and style hair
- Perform chemical services such as perms and relaxers
- Recommend and sell hair care products
- Sanitize tools and stations
- Book appointments and manage clients
- Keep up with trends and techniques
Work environment and schedule
Cosmetologists work in salons, spas, barbershops and resorts, standing for long periods and working with chemicals.
Schedule: Many work evenings and weekends when clients are available; part-time and flexible schedules are common.
A day in the life
- Set up the station and review the day’s bookings.
- Consult with a new client about a balayage.
- Apply color and process with foils.
- Do a men’s haircut and beard trim.
See a full day in the life of a cosmetologist →
Cosmetologist salary
Half of cosmetologists earned more than $35,790 and half earned less in May 2025. Pay ranged from about $27,040 for the lowest 10% to $71,190 for the top 10%.
Full cosmetologist pay scale and hourly rates →
How to become a cosmetologist
- Enroll in cosmetology school
- Complete required hours
- Pass the state board exam
- Start in a salon
- Grow
Cosmetologists complete a state-approved cosmetology program, often around 1,000 to 1,500 hours or more depending on the state, then pass a state board exam.
Step-by-step guide to becoming a cosmetologist →
Skills and tools
Technical skills
- Haircutting
- Color theory and application
- Chemical services
- Styling
- Sanitation
People skills
- Creativity
- Customer service
- Communication
- Business sense
All cosmetologist skills and tools →
Pros and cons
Pros
- Creative, hands-on work
- Build loyal client relationships
- Flexible schedules
- Option to own a salon
Cons
- Income depends on building clients
- Standing all day
- Chemical exposure
- Evenings and weekends
Certifications and licenses
- State cosmetology license: Required in every state.
- NIC exam: National written and practical exams used by many states.
- Color specialist certifications: Advanced coloring education.
- Brand education: Training from product companies.
Career path
- Salon Assistant: Learn under stylists.
- Cosmetologist: Serve clients.
- Senior Stylist or Educator: Specialize and teach.
- Salon Manager or Owner: Run a salon.
Learn the job before day one
Our Cosmetologist training (10 hours, $89.99) covers the role, 15+ key terms, step-by-step procedures such as conduct a client consultation and apply all-over hair color, safety and how to land your first job.
Related careers
Esthetician
Care for clients’ skin with facials, treatments and expert advice.
- $45,330
- 4–9 months
Nail Technician
Care for and beautify nails with manicures, pedicures and nail art.
- $35,760
- 2–6 months
Salon Manager
Run salons and spas: staff, schedules, sales and client experience.
- $48,590
- 2–5 years of salon experience
Compare: Cosmetologist vs. Barber · Cosmetologist vs. Esthetician · Cosmetologist vs. Nail Technician · Cosmetologist vs. Salon Manager
Cosmetologist FAQ
How long does cosmetology school take?
Often 9 to 18 months, depending on state hours.
Do cosmetologists need a license?
Yes, in every state.
How do cosmetologists get paid?
Commission, hourly pay, booth rental and tips.
How much does a cosmetologist make?
The median annual wage for cosmetologists was $35,790 ($17.21 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $27,040 and the highest 10% earned more than $71,190.
How long does it take to become a cosmetologist?
Most people need about 9–18 months of training. Cosmetologists complete a state-approved cosmetology program, often around 1,000 to 1,500 hours or more depending on the state, then pass a state board exam.
Do you need a degree to be a cosmetologist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
More cosmetologist questions →
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 39-5012 (Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.