Barbers vs. Childcare Workers: Who Earns More?
Barbers out-earn Childcare Workers by $3K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Barbers land at $38,210 and Childcare Workers at $34,980. The education gap is real: barber programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while childcare worker programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Barbers is Oregon ($77,430); for Childcare Workers it's District of Columbia ($47,340).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Barbers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Barbers or Childcare Workers?
Barbers earn more nationally. The median is $38,210 for Barbers versus $34,980 for Childcare Workers, a difference of $3K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Barbers or Childcare Workers?
Barbers has the better 10-year outlook at 4.1% projected growth, compared to -2.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Barbers or Childcare Workers?
Barbers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Childcare Workers requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Barbers get paid the most?
Oregon is the top-paying state for Barbers at $77,430/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Barbers vs. Childcare Workers pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Oregon, Barbers earn $77,430 vs. $38,650 for Childcare Workers. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.