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Personal Care · New York

How to Become a Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in New York

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in New York earn a median salary of $35,760/year, which is 0% below the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists takes home approximately $407/month. Most positions require Postsecondary nondegree award.

$36K
Median salary in New York
-0%
vs. national average
3.8%
State income tax
20,740
Employed in New York

What a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists can afford in New York

Gross annual salary$35,760
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.8% state tax)$2,451/mo
Median 2BR rent (New York)-$2,044/mo
Rent as % of take-home83.4% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$35,760/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$407/mo

Becoming a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in New York

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain New York licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in New York

New York employs 20,740 hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists. The highest concentrations are in Rochester and New York-Newark-Jersey City.

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists salary by metro area in New York

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Rochester$37K$17.71/hr730
New York-Newark-Jersey City$36K$17.37/hr27,660
Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh$35K$16.83/hr730
Syracuse$35K$16.74/hr390
Kingston$35K$16.69/hr140
Albany-Schenectady-Troy$35K$16.67/hr660
Binghamton$34K$16.16/hr160
Buffalo-Cheektowaga$33K$15.84/hr820
Utica-Rome$33K$15.64/hr100

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists salary range in New York

10th percentile (entry)
$34K
25th percentile
$35K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$58K
90th percentile (senior)
$89K
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Full hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary breakdown in New York
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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 New York?

The median hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists salary in New York is $35,760 per year ($17.19/hr). This is 0% below the national median of $35,790. Salaries range from $33,960 to $88,540.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $35,760, a hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in New York would take home approximately $2,451/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $2,044/month, that's 83.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

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

The highest paying metro areas for hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists in New York are Rochester ($36,830), New York-Newark-Jersey City ($36,120), Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh ($35,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $35,760 salary, this means roughly $1,362/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.