How to start a salon in the USA? Full process, cost, and income estimate

How to start a salon in the USA? Learn the full process, licenses, costs, location choice, marketing, and earnings details in English.

Introduction: Increasing popularity of the salon business in the USA

The beauty and personal care industry is steadily growing in the USA as a local business. People here spend a lot on haircuts, makeup, nail art, and skin treatments. If you want to start a salon in the USA, you need proper planning, legal licenses, and investment.

1. Market research – the first step toward success

Before opening a salon, it’s important to know the demand in your city or area.
Target audience: Women, men, or both
Popular services: Hair coloring, facials, bridal makeup, nail art
Competition: Salons in the area and their pricing

2.Create a business plan

A good business plan should include:
Budget and investment
Marketing plan
List of services with prices
Staff count
1–3 year growth plan

3.Pick the right location

A salon’s success in the US largely depends on where it’s located.
Busy areas: Malls, markets, main roads
Parking availability
Safe and hygienic area

4.Estimated rent:

Small cities – $1,000 to $3,000 per month
Large cities – $4,000 to $10,000 per month
Licensing and registration process
To start a salon in the US, you need:
Business registration (as an LLC or Corporation)

6.Cosmetology license

Business operation license
Health and safety permit
Sales tax permit

Note: Rules vary by state, so check with your state’s Board of Cosmetology.

7.Training and hiring staff

You need a cosmetology certificate to provide services yourself.

Staff must have proper licenses and training.

Average salon staff pay in the US: $12–$20 per hour

8.Equipment and interior

Essential salon items:

Hair-cutting chairs, mirrors, shampoo stations, dryers, nail stations, and skin treatment machines etc.

9.Estimated cost:

Small salon – $10,000 to $25,000

Medium salon – $30,000 to $60,000

Luxury salon – $80,000 to $150,000

10.Marketing and branding

Choose a unique name and logo

11.Promote on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok

Create a Google Business Profile

Give special launch offers and packages

12.Estimated total cost

| Expense type | Cost (USD) |
|————————|——————–|
| Registration | $300 – $800 |
| License | $500 – $2,000 |
| Rent (first month) | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Interior & equipment | $10,000 – $60,000 |
| Marketing | $500 – $5,000 |
Total | $15,000 – $80,000 |

13.Timeframe

After completing paperwork: 2–4 months
For foreign nationals (with visa): Up to 6 months

14.Earning potential

Small salon: $5,000 – $15,000 per month
Large salon: $20,000 – $50,000+ per month

Conclusion

Starting a salon in the US can be a great business, but it needs the right location, quality service, and smart marketing. If you focus on these, your salon can become successful and profitable in the long term.