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Personal Care · Colorado

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

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in Colorado earn a median salary of $37,690/year, which is 5% above the national average. Colorado has a state income tax of ~4.4%. After taxes and rent, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists takes home approximately $972/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$38K
Median salary in Colorado
+5%
vs. national average
4.4%
State income tax
6,820
Employed in Colorado

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

Gross annual salary$37,690
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.4% state tax)$2,555/mo
Median 2BR rent (Colorado)-$1,583/mo
Rent as % of take-home62% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$37,690/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$972/mo

Becoming a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Colorado

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Colorado licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Colorado

Colorado employs 6,820 hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists. The highest concentrations are in Boulder and Greeley.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Boulder$48K$23.13/hr490
Greeley$44K$21.34/hr210
Fort Collins-Loveland$41K$19.82/hr560
Colorado Springs$37K$17.63/hr870
Denver-Aurora-Centennial$37K$17.56/hr4,150
Grand Junction$37K$17.55/hr170
Pueblo$33K$16/hr50

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists salary range in Colorado

10th percentile (entry)
$32K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$38K
75th percentile
$60K
90th percentile (senior)
$99K
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Full hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary breakdown in Colorado
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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 Colorado?

The median hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary in Colorado is $37,690 per year ($18.12/hr). This is 5% above the national median of $35,790. Salaries range from $31,520 to $98,860.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $37,690, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Colorado would take home approximately $2,555/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,583/month, that's 62% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Colorado are Boulder ($48,120), Greeley ($44,380), Fort Collins-Loveland ($41,230). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Colorado has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.4%. On a $37,690 salary, this means roughly $1,658/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.