Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists

๐Ÿค Save Career

Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists play a vital role in the US economy, with 651K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $35,420, with projected growth of 5% through 2034 (Faster than average).

$35,420
Median Salary
5%
Growth Rate
20%
AI Risk
Certificate
Education

๐Ÿ’ฐ Salary Range

$21,252$35,420 median$56,672

๐Ÿ“ˆ Growth Outlook

moderate โ€” 5% projected growth

๐Ÿค– AI Automation Risk

Very Low

This career is highly resistant to AI automation.

๐Ÿค–

AI Impact Deep Dive: Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists

๐Ÿ”ฌ AI Impact Deep Dive: Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists

AI Collaboration Score

4% โ€” Low

Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)

๐Ÿ”ฎ Future Outlook

The core of this occupation involves manual dexterity and physical interaction in a highly unpredictable environment (human hair and skin). While AI can assist with peripheral tasks like appointment scheduling, marketing, or visualizing hairstyles for clients, the physical act of cutting, coloring, and styling hair remains a significant barrier to automation.

Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.

๐ŸŒ…

A Day in the Life

As a barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
๐ŸŒŸ

Career Outlook & Getting Started

Why It's Promising

With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $35,420, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (0.7M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country.

How to Get Started

Entry typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.

Who Is It For

Anyone interested in barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.

๐ŸŽ“

Majors & Top Schools

โ“

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists make in 2026?โ–ผ

The median salary for a Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is $35,420 per year. Entry-level positions start around $21,252, while experienced professionals can earn up to $56,672 depending on location, specialization, and industry.

How do I become a Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists?โ–ผ

Entry typically requires postsecondary nondegree award. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is certificate.

What degree do you need to be a Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists?โ–ผ

Most Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists positions require certificate. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.

What AP courses should I take to become a Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists?โ–ผ

Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.

What does a Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists do on a daily basis?โ–ผ

As a barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.

Is Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists a good career in 2026?โ–ผ

With 5% projected growth and a median salary of $35,420, this career offers steady prospects. The large employment base (0.7M jobs) means abundant opportunities across the country. Job growth is projected at 5%, which is declining. The median salary of $35,420 also positions it competitively in the job market.

Will AI replace Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologistss?โ–ผ

Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists has an AI automation risk score of 20/100 (Very Low). This career is highly resistant to AI automation due to its need for human judgment, creativity, or physical presence.

What kind of person makes a good Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists?โ–ผ

Anyone interested in barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.

Is Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists Right for You?

Take our career quiz to see how Barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.

Free ยท No signup required