Skip to content
AffordMap
Personal Care · Massachusetts

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

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $37,290/year, which is 4% above the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists takes home approximately $928/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$37K
Median salary in Massachusetts
+4%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
9,600
Employed in Massachusetts

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

Gross annual salary$37,290
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$2,511/mo
Median 2BR rent (Massachusetts)-$1,583/mo
Rent as % of take-home63% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$37,290/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$928/mo

Becoming a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Massachusetts

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts employs 9,600 hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists. The highest concentrations are in Barnstable Town and Boston-Cambridge-Newton.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Barnstable Town$47K$22.37/hr370
Boston-Cambridge-Newton$37K$18/hr7,870
Springfield$37K$17.64/hr410
Worcester$36K$17.52/hr640
Pittsfield$36K$17.09/hr140

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists salary range in Massachusetts

10th percentile (entry)
$32K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$37K
75th percentile
$60K
90th percentile (senior)
$79K
View jobs for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
Currently hiring in Massachusetts
View →
More openings for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
Currently hiring in Massachusetts
View →
Advance your nursing career
Online BSN and MSN programs, 45% off select certificates
View →
Full hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary breakdown in Massachusetts
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Massachusetts
After federal + 5.0% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Massachusetts cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

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

The median hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary in Massachusetts is $37,290 per year ($17.93/hr). This is 4% above the national median of $35,790. Salaries range from $31,600 to $79,330.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $37,290, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Massachusetts would take home approximately $2,511/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,583/month, that's 63% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in Massachusetts are Barnstable Town ($46,520), Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($37,430), Springfield ($36,690). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $37,290 salary, this means roughly $1,865/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.