FAQ
Salon Manager FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a salon manager.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a salon manager: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about salon managers
Do salon managers need a license?
Often, though not always.
What’s the path to ownership?
Management experience, business skills and savings.
Do managers still do services?
Many do part-time.
How much does a salon manager make?
The median annual wage for salon managers was $48,590 ($23.36 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $34,010 and the highest 10% earned more than $75,330.
How long does it take to become a salon manager?
Most people need about 2–5 years of salon experience of training. A high school diploma plus salon experience is typical; many managers are licensed cosmetologists or estheticians.
Do you need a degree to be a salon manager?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
Is salon manager a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +6.3% from 2025–35 (faster than average), with about 12,000 openings each year. Upsides include leadership in the beauty industry; a common challenge is that staff turnover.
What skills does a salon manager need?
Key technical skills include salon operations, scheduling software, retail sales, and inventory management. Employers also value leadership, customer service, and communication.
What certifications are available for salon managers?
Common credentials include Cosmetology or esthetics license, Salon management training, Retail sales training, and Small business courses. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Salon Manager fit quiz, compare with Cosmetologist, or explore Salon Manager training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 39-1022 (First-line supervisors of personal service workers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for First-line supervisors of personal service workers (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.