If you're considering a career as a stylist or already working in the industry, you might be wondering how much do stylists make an hour. The answer can vary depending on several factors, including location, experience, and the type of salon or establishment you work for.
On the one hand, working as a stylist can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. You get to help people look and feel their best, express your creativity, and build lasting relationships with clients. On the other hand, it can also be a challenging and competitive field, with long hours, high pressure, and the need to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is $12.54, as of May 2020. However, this can range from as low as $8.85 for the bottom 10% to as high as $26.19 for the top 10%. Keep in mind that this does not include tips, which can significantly increase your earnings.
In addition, the type of salon or establishment you work for can also affect your hourly rate. High-end salons in urban areas tend to pay more than budget salons in rural areas. Commission-based pay structures, where you earn a percentage of the services you provide, can also be more lucrative than hourly or salary-based pay structures.
Personal Experience
As a stylist with five years of experience working in a mid-range salon in a suburban area, I make around $18 per hour on average, including tips. However, this can fluctuate depending on the season, the types of services I provide, and the number of clients I see. I also receive a small commission on retail products that I sell to clients.
Factors That Can Affect Your Earnings as a Stylist
Aside from location and establishment type, several other factors can impact how much you make as a stylist. These include:
Experience and Education
The more experience and education you have, the more you can command in terms of hourly rate or commission. Continuing education and certifications in specific techniques or services can also increase your earning potential.
Skill and Reputation
If you have a reputation for providing exceptional service and producing high-quality results, you may be able to charge more for your services and attract more clients.
Marketing Yourself as a Stylist
One way to increase your earnings as a stylist is to market yourself effectively. This can include building a strong online presence, networking with other professionals in the industry, and offering promotions or packages to incentivize clients to book more services with you.
Question and Answer
Q: Can stylists make a living wage?
A: Yes, stylists can make a living wage, but it depends on several factors such as location, experience, and the type of salon or establishment you work for.
Q: How much do high-end salons pay stylists?
A: High-end salons in urban areas tend to pay more than budget salons in rural areas. The hourly rate can range from $15 to $30, depending on experience and education.
Q: Is it better to work on an hourly or commission-based pay structure?
A: It depends on your personal preferences and the type of services you provide. Commission-based pay structures can be more lucrative if you are a high-performing stylist who provides a lot of services and sells retail products. Hourly or salary-based pay structures may be more stable and predictable.
Q: How can stylists increase their earnings?
A: Stylists can increase their earnings by building a strong reputation, marketing themselves effectively, and continuing their education and certifications in specific techniques or services.
Conclusion of How Much Does a Stylist Make an Hour
Overall, the hourly rate for stylists can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, experience, and the type of salon or establishment you work for. However, with dedication, hard work, and some savvy marketing strategies, you can increase your earning potential and build a successful career in this challenging but rewarding field.
