How do I start my own barber shop business?
Robert Miller
Updated on March 22, 2026
Examples of the most typical requirements include:
- Completed independent barber shop owner application.
- Proof of ownership or leasing of a business address.
- Proof of a city or county business license.
- Proof that you are a licensed barber.
- Facility requirements like: Hot and cold running water. Public bathrooms. Drinking water.
How much does a barber shop owner make a year?
Barber Shop Owner Salary
| Annual Salary | Monthly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $75,000 | $6,250 |
| 75th Percentile | $69,000 | $5,750 |
| Average | $53,772 | $4,481 |
| 25th Percentile | $28,000 | $2,333 |
How much does it cost to start a barber shop?
Starting a barbershop costs roughly between $120,000 and $150,000. The cost depends on your business model, rent, government registration fees, and licenses and permits. Don’t forget to factor in the cost of barbershop supplies. How much money can you make owning a barbershop?
What are the business models for a barbershop?
Decide on a business model. There are three main business models in the barbershop industry: booth rental, commission, and full-time employment. Booth rental barbershops ask barbers to pay a monthly fee. Essentially, the barbers are independent contractors who rent space in your barbershop.
Do you need a website for your barbershop?
BrightLocal’s Local Consumer Review Survey for 2017 found that: 97% of consumers used the internet to find a local business, up from 95% in 2016 which helps illustrate why you need a website for your business. Without a website, your barbershop might as well not exist as far as local consumers are concerned.
What do I need to do to become a barber?
Gain some work experience in school and through externships. Early in your barber school training, you’ll gain experience cutting hair by practicing on mannequins. Later, you’ll probably be assigned (or asked to seek out) an externship with a local barbershop. There you’ll work as an apprentice and be be tasked with cutting clients’ hair.
