Barbering School Cost

Last Updated on September 19, 2023
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

The beauty industry continues to develop harmoniously, and the significant number of barbershops that are constantly opening throughout the country fully demonstrates this fact. Even if the barber job is one of the oldest occupations in the world, it manages to attract more and more people even today.

In fact, many young people are oriented towards acquiring specific skills and abilities in this field, which would allow them to open a barbershop on their own, transforming the barber job from a simple occupation into a job of the future, with multiple possibilities of development.

How much does attending Barbering School cost?

If you want to become a barber, you should be prepared to spend a minimum of $3,200 to $6,500 or as much as $7,800 to $15,500 for fees and tuition in order to complete a barber training program. In general, the costs at community colleges are lower, particularly for in-state students. On the other hand, private barbering programs/schools have higher costs.

Plan on spending anywhere between $520 and $2,200 for supplies and books.

Depending on the state, you will have to pay anywhere between $150 and $230 for the barber exam and licensure fees.

Also, you will have to pay anywhere between $60 and $120 for the biennial renewal fees.

Barber’s profession overview

Barbers are those professionals who have been trained to offer skin and hair services designed mostly for men. At the barbering school, they learn skills such as styling, shampooing, coloring, and cutting, but also blow-drying hair and performing facial hair grooming, steam facials, facial and scalp massages, and foam shaves.

Also, barber programs should provide instructions in other important areas such as hygiene and sanitation, basic woman’s haircutting, the study of the skin, scalp, and hair, and customer interaction. Some programs may also include shop management training.

Barber job requirements

All states in America, except for Alabama which offers cosmetology licensing only, require a barbering license in order to practice this job. The students have to complete a state-accredited barber program to obtain a license. This is offered by both cosmetology and barber schools. Also, in some states, barber license reciprocity is allowed.

You might also like our articles on the price of schooling to become a physical therapist, nail technician, or auto mechanic.

Most accredited programs last anywhere between 1,000 and 1,800 hours. In some states, it is allowed to be licensed through an apprenticeship under a master barber instead of school training. But usually, apprenticeship licensing takes a greater time commitment compared to school licensing.

Also, most states require barbers to be a minimum of 16 years old and have graduated High School with a diploma or equivalent. Your barbering license is granted once you pass the state licensing exam. You can view a state-by-state listing of barber boards by visiting the website of the National Association of Barber Boards of America.

Salary and job outlook

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, it is expected that the overall employment of barbers increases by 19% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average of all professions. This percentage clearly indicates a great interest in becoming a barber and for good reasoning.

In the United States, the average salary of a barber is anywhere between $26,500 and $40,000 per year. This salary range varies from one state to another and depends on factors like tips from clients and experience.

In case you will be able to open your own barbershop, expect to earn around $55,000 per year as a barbershop owner.

How can I save money?

There are some barbering schools that participate in federal financial aid programs. Make sure you contact the school’s financial aid office and ask about what they can offer. Pell grants may also be available, and you won’t usually have to repay them. Also, you might be able to get a private scholarship/grant.

How do you know if barbering is right for you?

Are you a patient person?

Patience is an absolutely necessary trait in any field, but really essential when you want to work in a beauty salon, especially if you are just starting out in the art of barbering.

Do you like working with people?

Unlike other occupations, barbering is extremely dynamic and challenging, as it involves constant interaction with many types of people. Just as there are easy-to-please customers, there are likely to be difficult ones who will test your patience. On the other hand, even though you get negative feedback, this is your chance to learn from your mistakes and improve.

How attentive to details do you consider yourself?

As a barber, you need to demonstrate a number of qualities at each individual appointment. Without a doubt, attention to detail is on the list of the most significant assets of a professional barber.

How well do you work under pressure?

Although barbering seems like a relaxing activity from the outside, there are also borderline situations that you have to deal with brilliantly.

Imagine long days at the salon, crowded with appointments, but also numerous delays. Think about the customers who are late, the loyal ones who call on your services at short notice, but also the ones who are in a hurry. Plus, keep in mind that when you least expect it, your favorite tools can break or your styling products aren’t delivered on time.

How much time do you plan to invest to get better?

In this job, practice will help you become the best version of yourself. However, it is important to attend professional courses as often as you can, where you have the opportunity to learn not only many new techniques but also work with real professionals in the field.