How Much Do Hairstylists Make in Florida?

Published August 08, 2021
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, an average hairstylist in Florida makes around $30,440 per year or about $14.63 per hour. This is slightly lower than the national average but higher than the state’s minimum salary.
Becoming a hairstylist in Florida, just like anywhere in the US (or the world for that matter), is no easy job. The state requires hairdressers to obtain a cosmetology license first. To do so, one must be a high school graduate, train for 1,200 hours, and take a licensing exam. They must also undergo a 10-hour continuing education course to renew their license.
Though the numbers say otherwise, hairstylists actually make good money in Florida. You need to remember that the figure above is just the average pay. Aside from their wages, hairstylists also earn from tips. And if you’re really good at your job, people will be more than willing to pay for your services. In fact, some celebrity hairstylists make as much as $300,000 per year!
But if you’re considering a career in hairstyling, the monetary reward is just the tip of the iceberg. There are a lot of perks to being a hairstylist that even some of the highest-paying jobs can’t give.

Other Perks of Being a Hairstylist
Aside from an above-minimum salary, hairstylists also enjoy these perks:
1. You’ll always have a job.
Some sources say that hairstyling is a recession-proof job. That’s because even with a bad economy, people will still get their haircuts. In fact, they’ll most likely forego a new bag, shoes, or dress than a new haircut. This means that no matter the country’s economic situation, hairstylists will always have a job.
2. It’s flexible.
Aside from cutting hair, there are plenty of job opportunities for a hairstylist. You can become a hairstyling coach, develop hair care products, or start your own hair vlog. Many hairstylists also choose to become a freelancer or put up their own businesses. It’s a very flexible career path.
3. You meet a lot of people.
This is one of the best perks of being a hairstylist. It allows you to meet people from all walks of life. You get to practice and hone your interpersonal skills while learning from other people’s experiences.
4. You can earn anywhere.
Hairstyling basics stay the same pretty much anywhere in the world. So as long as you have your scissors and hair styling tools, you can earn anywhere. Some people have even used their hairstyling skills to fund their travels around the world.
5. It’s easier to make a name for yourself.
As I’ve said, if you’re good at your job, people will be more than willing to pay for your services. Plus, there are lots of competitions out there for budding hairstylists. Winning in one of them, especially if it’s an international contest, can catapult your name out of obscurity.
6. Every day is different.
If there’s one thing that’s certain about being a hairstylist, it’s that it’s never boring. Every working day is different from the rest. You constantly meet new people and learn new things. Plus, the industry itself is constantly evolving and the trends keep on changing.
7. You decide how much you earn.
When you become a freelance hairstylist, you get to decide how much to charge your customer, how many hours you work, and what services to offer. In short, you have more control over your income.
Can Hairstylists Make 6 Figures?
While it’s not easy, making six figures as a hairstylist is definitely possible. Here are some tips on how you can do it:
1. Build your network.
In this industry, there’s no better way to market yourself than by word of mouth. That’s why it pays to build your network. Reach out to local stylist communities, join online groups and forums, attend events and symposiums. Sometimes, it just takes one person recommending you to the right clients to break through the proverbial wall.
2. Sell products.
Retail selling is traditionally frowned upon in the hairstyling industry. But it’s a good way of making some side income. Besides, most of your clients don’t come to you for a haircut. Most of the time, they’ll need advice on what hair products to use. Make use of that opportunity to not just recommend but sell them the products that you’re already using anyway.
3. Never stop learning.
Hairstyling is an ever-evolving industry. The trends constantly change and if you don’t adapt, you’ll be left on the curb. So if you want to increase your income, never stop learning. Upgrade your skills, study new techniques, enroll in cosmetology courses – basically anything that can boost your resume. No matter how talented of a hairstylist you are, if you’ve got nothing new to offer, you won’t be able to charge your clients a premium rate.
4. Be professional.
Even if you don’t have much to go on in terms of experience, being professional can help you get and keep high-paying clients. In this industry, impressions are everything. If you’re constantly late and dress shabbily, do you think clients will trust you?
5. Put in the work.
No one – hairstylist or otherwise – became successful just by lazing around. Most successful people had to work very hard to reach where they are now. So if you want to make it in this field, you must be willing to put in the work.
(Related: How to Make a Hair Length Chart For Your Salon)
Lease Salon Space In Royal Palm Beach Florida
Fulfill your dreams and be your own boss when you lease salon space in Palm Beach Florida with us. Our beautiful salon spaces come with complimentary laundry and cleaning services and a flexible lease agreement you can afford. Our salon suites come with many amenities including free cleaning service, televisions, storage space, and more. Contact us now to book a tour or learn more.

Fact Checked By Experts
Our team of internal experts diligently fact-checked this content to ensure accuracy and reliability. Find detailed information about the rigorous editorial standards we uphold for our website.

About The Author
Judy Ponio is the lead writer for the Salon Suites of Palm Beach website and blog. Her many years of blogging experience and passions for beauty trends helps her create content that has helped millions of people worldwide.