Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

Provide beauty services, such as cutting, coloring, and styling hair, and massaging and treating scalp. May shampoo hair, apply makeup, dress wigs, remove hair, and provide nail and skincare services.

SOC: 39-5012.00

Common Job Titles

  • Cosmetologist
  • Hair Stylist
  • Hairdresser
  • Hairstylist

Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

295,460

Wage Distribution by Percentile

Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $24,580. 25th percentile: U.S. $29,060. 50th percentile: U.S. $35,250. 75th percentile: U.S. $48,300. 90th percentile: U.S. $70,220. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.

  • U.S.
MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$24,580
10% of workers earn the following or more$70,220
Workers on average earn$43,460

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Customer and Personal Service4.4/5
  • Sales and Marketing3.7/5
  • Administration and Management3.0/5
  • Education and Training3.0/5
  • English Language2.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge

Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

  • Apple iOS
  • Facebook
  • Intuit QuickBooks
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft Office software
  • Microsoft Word

Technology Skills

  • Appointment scheduling software
  • Customer information databases
  • Sale processing software
  • YouTube

Tools & Equipment

  • Butterfly hair clamps
  • Color application combs
  • Curling irons
  • Cuticle nippers
  • Cuticle pushers
  • Cuticle scissors
  • Desktop computers
  • Detangling combs
Tools & Technology: Tools & Equipment