If you are interested in working as a cosmetologist, one of the first things you might look at is the salary you can expect to earn. Of course, salaries for cosmetologists depend on the area you live, but also the skills you have. So, let us take a closer look at the salary you can expect working as a cosmetologist in the US.
The Statistics
In 2014, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics did an in-depth report on cosmetologist salaries in the US. Their report stated that the hourly wage of a cosmetologist lies between a minimum of $8.34 and a maximum $23.21 across the board. Therefore, the annual salaries could range from $15,530 to $42,460!
Work Locations
The location where you work could affect the wage you are getting as a cosmetologist. According to the study executed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the lowest earners work in department stores as makeup artists. This also applies to makeup sales representatives, who earn $9.73 per hour.
If you are considering a future as a cosmetology teacher, you will earn more than cosmetologists in department stores and sales representatives. Cosmetologists who work in technical colleges and beauty schools earned an average of $13.24 per hour and an average of $27,540 per year.
The highest earners in 2014 could be found in the motion picture and video industry, which could count on an average hourly wage of $29.50 and an overall annual salary of $67,370. However, those working in the performance arts companies only earned $22.90 per hour and an average of $47,710 per year.
Too Many Cosmetologists in Pennsylvania
If you want to work as a cosmetologist in Pennsylvania, you might be fighting an uphill battle. During the study in 2014, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics discovered that the largest concentration of cosmetologists could be found in Pennsylvania. Because of the high concentration of cosmetologists, the average wage in this stage was determined on $11.08 per hour.
Earning the Most in Brockton, Bridgewater and Easton
Of course, there are also certain states where cosmetologists earned more. According to the study of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the states where cosmetologists earned the most were Brockton, Bridgewater and Easton. On average, cosmetologists earned $20.68 per hour and $43,010 per year.
Different Ways of Payment
Naturally, cosmetologists can be paid in different ways, which could affect the overall income of a cosmetologist. Let us take a closer look at some of the most popular payment methods used for cosmetologists.
One of the most common payment methods used for cosmetologists is the hourly wage. So, if you expect to earn an hourly wage, be sure to compare your wage to other cosmetologists in the area.
In addition to the hourly wage, cosmetologists can also earn a living with a commission-based wage. The commission is usually added to the basic salary earned by the cosmetologist, which is usually lower than an hourly wage. However, these cosmetologists earn more by selling some of the products they use to deliver their services.
Naturally, cosmetologists can also earn an extra living by getting tips from clients in the salon or department store. Of course, tips are not common in the cosmetology business, so you should always rely on your hourly wage or the commission you earn.
Your Employer
The region where you perform your profession can affect your wages, but so can your employer. Some employers pay their cosmetologists more, but they also expect more skill and experience from their employees. So, once you have built a nice portfolio and have many good client reviews, you could try getting a job with one of the higher paying employers.
Your Experience
It is only normal that you won’t earn an incredibly high wage in the beginning of your cosmetology career, because experience does translate in a higher wage. Therefore, be sure to build up loads of experience and even work for multiple companies to build up that important portfolio.
Conclusion
The study from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that cosmetologist can build a successful and high-paying career, providing they are willing to get the experience. So, if you want to be a successful cosmetologist, then experience and know-how will be your best friend.