How Much Do Hair Stylists Make? Is It a Well-Paid Career?
Published May 6, 2025
Thinking about becoming a hair stylist and wondering if it’s really worth it? You’re not alone. With rising living costs and career burnout on the rise, more people are questioning if creative jobs can still pay the bills.
So let’s talk about it, how much do hair stylists make? From fresh-out-of-school beginners to celebrity stylists raking in thousands per session, the income range might surprise you. This guide breaks it all down, early averages, what tips can add, and what it really takes to earn big behind the chair.
If you’re chasing both passion and a paycheck, keep reading, this one’s for you.
How Much Do Hair Stylists Make
The average hair stylist in the U.S. earns about $23.97 per hour, according to 2025 data. But that’s just the middle of the pack, some make as little as $10.42, while top earners can bring in over $55 per hour. So what’s the catch?
Location, experience, clientele, and even salon type all play a role. You could be living your dream, scissors in hand, or barely scraping by. It’s a creative career, but is it financially secure?
We’ll walk you through what affects your pay and how to move up the income ladder in this stylish but competitive world.
How Much Do Hair Stylists Make a Year
On average, a hair stylist earns around $49,857 annually, assuming full-time hours. That’s not far from the national median income, but here’s where it gets tricky. Many stylists work part-time or rely on commissions.
Others supplement their income with side gigs or by renting a chair in a salon. Your yearly income depends on your hustle, your hours, and your pricing. Want six figures?
You’ll need high-end clients or celebrity gigs. But for many, the love of the craft is just as rewarding as the paycheck, until the rent’s due. Still, a strategic approach can take you far.
How Much Do Hair Stylists Make with Tips
Tips can be a game-changer. Some stylists report an extra $100-$300 per week in gratuities, sometimes more during peak seasons or in wealthier neighborhoods. Unlike a salary, tips are unpredictable but deeply tied to service quality and client relationships.
It’s not just about skill, it’s about connection as well. Did you offer a great cut and great conversation? That often equals a bigger tip.
However, not all salons allow tips or split them evenly. It’s a gray area that can either lift your paycheck or leave you frustrated. Want to boost your tips? Be unforgettable, in a good way.
How Much Do Celebrity Hair Stylists Make
Here’s where things get wild. Celebrity hair stylists can earn $100,000 to $1 million+ per year, depending on their client list, media deals, and brand partnerships. Think Jen Atkin or Chris Appleton.
These stylists don’t just cut hair, they manage image empires. But getting there takes years of networking, visibility, and consistency. It’s a mix of artistry, PR savvy, and being in the right place at the right time.
If fame and fortune are your goals, prepare to grind. Because behind every viral “glass hair” moment is a stylist who hustled harder than most people ever see.
FAQS
How much do hairdressers earn in the USA?
Hairdressers in the USA make about $23.97 per hour on average. That’s around $49,000 a year if they work full-time.
How much do hair stylists charge in the USA?
Hair stylists usually charge between $30 to $100 per haircut, depending on the salon and location. Some charge more for color or special styles.
In what states do hair stylists make the most money?
Hair stylists earn the most in places like Phoenix, AZ ($30/hour) and Fort Wayne, IN ($25/hour). Big cities often pay more.
Can you make good money as a stylist?
Yes. If you work hard, build loyal clients, and get tips, you can make good money. Some even earn more with side jobs or by becoming a celebrity stylist.
What is the highest salary for a hairdresser?
Top hairdressers, like celebrity stylists, can make over $100,000 to $1 million a year. It takes time and connections to get there.
Final Thoughts
Being a hair stylist can be a fun and creative job. You get to help people feel good about themselves while doing something you enjoy. Some stylists make extra money with tips, and a few even become rich working with famous people. But to earn more, you need the right place, skills, and hard work.
If you’re ready to take your career to the next level, Salon Suites of Boca Raton offers beautiful salon spaces just for stylists like you. Start your dream business in a space designed to help you grow. Book a tour and see it for yourself today.
Lease Salon Space In Boca Raton Florida
Join a vibrant community of beauty professionals when you rent salon space in Boca Raton with us. Whether you’re a hairstylist, nail technician, or esthetician we have a place for you. Joining our salon family means you’re becoming part of a network that values your growth. At our Boca Raton location, you’ll enjoy free cleaning services, flexible lease agreements, and much more. Lease salon space in Boca Raton by reaching out today.
About The Author
Meet Rei Bayucca, a professional writer and passionate expert in all things related to beauty. Every article is purposely designed to assist you in tackling your most challenging dilemmas. Rei’s knack for creating engaging content is guaranteed to ignite your curiosity.
