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Personal Care · Arkansas

How to Become a Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in Arkansas

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in Arkansas earn a median salary of $26,450/year, which is 25% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.3%. After taxes and rent, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists takes home approximately $456/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$26K
Median salary in Arkansas
-25%
vs. national average
3.3%
State income tax
1,610
Employed in Arkansas

What a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists can afford in Arkansas

Gross annual salary$26,450
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.3% state tax)$1,868/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arkansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home75.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$26,450/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$456/mo

Becoming a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Arkansas

1

Meet education requirements

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists positions in Arkansas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arkansas. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists positions in Arkansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification

Arkansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arkansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arkansas

Arkansas employs 1,610 hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists. The highest concentrations are in Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers and Fort Smith.

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists salary by metro area in Arkansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers$27K$13.21/hr610
Fort Smith$26K$12.56/hr90
Hot Springs$26K$12.56/hr50
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway$26K$12.46/hr540
Jonesboro$25K$12.17/hr100

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists salary range in Arkansas

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$23K
Median (50th)
$26K
75th percentile
$30K
90th percentile (senior)
$35K
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Full hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary breakdown in Arkansas
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After federal + 3.3% state tax
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Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists make in Arkansas?

The median hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary in Arkansas is $26,450 per year ($12.72/hr). This is 25% below the national median of $35,250. Salaries range from $22,880 to $35,120.

What are the requirements to become a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Arkansas?

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists positions in Arkansas typically require Postsecondary nondegree award. Arkansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arkansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists afford to live in Arkansas?

At the median salary of $26,450, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Arkansas would take home approximately $1,868/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 75.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Arkansas?

The highest paying metro areas for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Arkansas are Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($27,470), Fort Smith ($26,110), Hot Springs ($26,110). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arkansas have state income tax for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists?

Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.3%. On a $26,450 salary, this means roughly $864/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.