If you’ve ever asked yourself “How much does a barber make a year?”, you’re not alone. Whether you’re exploring a new career path or looking to expand your current beauty industry license, barbering offers both creativity and strong earning potential.
At the Southern California College of Barber & Beauty, we don’t just prepare students to enter the workforce — we help them thrive in one of the most in-demand trades. In this guide, we’ll break down average barber salaries, what factors affect income, and how our programs can set you up for success.
Average Barber Salary in the U.S.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), barbers in the United States earn between $30,000 and $40,000 per year on average. However, that’s just the starting point.
In Southern California — in cities like Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego — skilled barbers often make $50,000–$60,000+ annually, thanks to higher demand, premium pricing, and generous tips.
👉 Explore our Barbering Program here
What Influences a Barber’s Earnings?
Several factors determine how much barbers can make each year.
📍 Location Matters
Barbers in busy, urban areas tend to earn more than those in small towns. Clients in cities like Los Angeles are willing to pay more for luxury grooming experiences, raising earning potential significantly.
✂️ Experience & Skillset
Entry-level barbers may start around $20,000–$30,000/year, but that increases quickly as skills sharpen and a loyal client base builds. Specializing in services like fades, beard sculpting, or hair tattoos allows barbers to charge premium prices.
💵 Tips & Commission
For many barbers, tips make up 30–50% of their income. Providing a standout experience, from customer service to technical skill, directly impacts your bottom line.
🧑💼 Self-Employed vs. Employed
Owning a barbershop comes with added responsibility, but also higher income potential. Working for an established shop can mean steadier pay but less flexibility. At SoCal Barber & Beauty, we prepare students for both paths.
How Specialization Boosts Barber Income
The beauty of barbering is that it doesn’t stop at haircuts. Skilled professionals who add services like:
- Beard trims & shaves
- Skin & scalp treatments
- Custom fades & hair designs
…often earn more than those offering only basic cuts.
And if you’re already licensed as a cosmetologist or esthetician? Our Barber Crossover Program makes it easy to expand your skillset and increase your earning potential.
Beyond Barbering: Other Career Paths
At Southern California College of Barber & Beauty, we also offer training in related fields like esthetics. If skincare is your passion, check out our Esthetician Program, which opens doors to careers in facials, skincare treatments, and more. Many students even choose to combine barbering and esthetics for a well-rounded career path.
Why Train With Us?
Choosing the right school can make or break your success. At SoCal Barber & Beauty, you’ll get:
- Hands-on training in real client scenarios at our student clinic
- State Board prep to ensure you’re exam-ready
- Business education to help you run or manage a shop
- Cross-program opportunities for those expanding from cosmetology or esthetics
Ready to Start Earning?
Barbering is more than a career — it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a flexible path to financial stability. Whether you’re just beginning or looking to specialize, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
👉 Learn More About the Barbering Program 👉 Book a Barbershop Service 👉 Contact Us to Enroll Today
