Starting a career as a hairdresser can be a rewarding path for many people, with both high employment outlooks and potential salary increases. As a matter of fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that available jobs in this field will grow by 8% from 2022–2032, faster than the national average. But on this path, you’re not stuck in one track with one prescribed pay. By adding certain skills, you can grow your salary even further. According to PayScale, these are the top four skills that will give your hairdresser salary the biggest boost.
1. Product marketing
- Average pay for a hairdresser with product marketing skills: $16.70/hour
- 12% boost*
2. People management
- Average pay for a hairdresser with people management skills: $16.48/hour
- 11% boost*
3. Client interaction
- Average pay for a hairdresser with client interaction skills: $15.17/hour
- 2% boost*
4. Sales
- Average pay for a hairdresser with sales skills: $15.00/hour
- 1% boost*
Hairdresser fast facts
- With bonuses and commissions in addition to the base hairdresser salary, total earning can range from $20,000–62,000, according to PayScale.
- Surveyed hairdressers were, on average, “highly satisfied” with their job.
- The cost of a cosmetology program can be as little as $6,500 or as much as $20,000, depending on location and specialization — and it can take less than two years (even as little as six months) to complete!