How Much Do Hairdressers Make?

Have you ever wondered how much hairdressers make? Whether you’re thinking about becoming a hairdresser yourself or simply curious, it’s interesting to explore what this profession can earn. Hairdressing is not just about cutting and styling; it’s about building relationships, understanding trends, and offering a personal service. But how does that translate into income?

When it comes to earnings, there are a few factors to consider. In this blog, we’ll cover all these factors to help you understand how much hairdressers make.

How Experience Affects Hairdresser Salaries

One of the key factors that determines how much hairdressers make is experience. As with most professions, the more years you have in the industry, the higher your potential earnings.

• Entry-Level: Those just starting may not earn as much. Entry-level ones tend to make a lower salary, as they are still building their skills, client base, and reputation. They might earn around £15,000 to £18,000 per year in the UK.
• Mid-Level: Once hairdressers have gained some experience and developed their skills, their pay starts to increase. At this stage, they may earn between £18,000 and £25,000 per year.
• Experienced: More experienced ones, especially those who are well-known in their area or work in high-end salons, can earn significantly more. Many experienced professionals make £30,000 or more annually. 

Moreover, those with specialised skills, such as colouring or bridal hairstyling, may charge higher prices, which adds to their overall income.

How Location Impacts Hairdresser Income

Where you work also plays a major role in how much hairdressers make. Hairdressers in larger cities or affluent areas typically charge more for their services compared to those in smaller towns or rural areas.

• City-Based Hairdressers: Hairdressers working in major cities like London can earn a significantly higher wage compared to those in smaller towns. The average income for a hairdresser in London can range from £25,000 to £40,000 annually, depending on the salon they work for and their experience.
• Small Town or Rural Hairdressers: On the other hand, professionals working in rural areas may find that clients are willing to pay less. As a result, their income might be closer to £15,000 to £20,000 annually. The cost of living in these areas may be lower, but so is the demand for premium-priced services.

Freelance vs Salon Work

Another critical factor affecting how much they make is whether they work in a salon or are self-employed. There are pros and cons to both options.

• Salon Hairdressers: Those who work in a salon usually have a stable income but may not have as much flexibility when it comes to setting prices. Salons often pay them a base salary plus commission on the services they perform. Some salons may also provide tips, which can be an additional source of income. 

While working in a salon offers job security, it can limit how much you can make because the salon takes a portion of what clients pay.

• Self-Employed or Freelance Hairdressers: On the other hand, self-employed hairdressers have more control over their earnings. Freelancers can set their own prices, and if they build a loyal client base, they can earn much more than those working in a salon. 

However, freelancers also have to manage their expenses, such as renting a chair in a salon or buying equipment and products. As a result, their earnings can vary, but it’s not uncommon for successful freelance experts  to make over £40,000 a year.

Factors That Increase Hairdresser Earnings

To increase earnings, hairdressers often need to focus on a few key areas. Here are some strategies that can help boost income:

• Specialise in a Niche: Professionals who specialise in certain areas, such as colour treatments, extensions, or bridal hairstyling, can charge more for their services. Clients are often willing to pay a premium for expert services, and these skills can set a hairdresser apart from the competition.
• Build a Strong Client Base: Regular clients provide a steady income. Therefore, those who are good at building relationships and ensuring client satisfaction often enjoy repeat business, which leads to consistent earnings.
• Expand Services: Some of them increase their income by offering additional services such as manicures, makeup, or skincare. This not only brings in extra money but also allows them to become a one-stop beauty shop for their clients.
• Work Longer Hours: For those looking to earn more, increasing the number of clients served in a day or working weekends can help bring in more money. However, this can also lead to burnout, so it’s important to find a balance.

How Tips and Commission Affect Income

Aside from the base salary or hourly wage, many hairdressers receive tips and commission, which can significantly increase their total earnings.

• Tips: Many clients tip them for their services, especially in more affluent areas or high-end salons. This can sometimes add an extra 10% to 20% to the total income.
• Commission: Some salons offer commission based on product sales or the number of clients served. Those who are good at upselling products like shampoos, conditioners, or treatments can make a good amount of commission, which adds to their base salary.

How Much Do Hairdressers Make in Other Countries?

The earning potential of these experts isn’t just limited to the UK. In other countries, they can earn significantly different amounts.

• United States: Hairdressers in the US typically make around $25,000 to $35,000 annually. However, high-end stylists in major cities like New York or Los Angeles can make much more, often exceeding $50,000 or even $100,000 a year.
• Australia: In Australia, hairdressers earn around AUD 40,000 to AUD 60,000 annually, depending on their location and experience.
• Canada: In Canada they make around CAD 30,000 to CAD 45,000 annually, with those in major cities like Toronto or Vancouver earning the higher end of the scale.

Conclusion

So, how much do hairdressers make? It varies widely depending on experience, location, and whether they are employed by a salon or working freelance. In the UK, they can expect to earn anywhere from £15,000 to over £40,000 per year. However, those who specialise in niche areas, build a loyal client base, and offer additional services have the potential to boost their earnings significantly.

If you’re thinking about becoming a hairdresser or simply curious about the profession, it’s clear that the earning potential can be quite varied but promising. Therefore, to earn more as a professional, you can enrol in the Open Learning Academy’s online diploma course. We also provide 24/7 support for any query you might have.