How to Start a Barbershop: Licences, Costs, Setup, Barbers and How Much Shop Owners Make

To start a barbershop: get your barber licence (if you'll cut) and the shop/establishment licence, write a business plan, choose a location with good foot traffic and parking, build out stations with plumbing and electrical, buy chairs and equipment, decide on a booth rent or commission model, hire skilled barbers, set prices, set up online booking, and promote the shop through Instagram, Google and the local community.

Steps

1. Licences: barber licence, shop licence, business registration, inspections
2. Business plan: concept (classic, premium, kids, walk-in), target clients, costs and pricing
3. Location: visibility, parking, rent, plumbing access
4. Build-out and equipment: barber chairs, stations, mirrors, sinks, sterilisation, waiting area, POS
5. Model: booth rent (stable rent income) vs commission (more control, higher upside)
6. Barbers: hire for skill and clientele; culture matters
7. Pricing: cuts, fades, beard trims, packages, memberships
8. Online booking with reminders and deposits (see How to make a booking website)
9. Branding: name, logo, interior design, Instagram aesthetic
10. Promotion: Google reviews, Instagram Reels, local sponsorships, grand opening (see How to grow your salon business)

Startup costs

Rent deposits, build-out, chairs and equipment, licences, insurance, branding and working capital; costs vary widely by location and size (see How much does it cost to open a salon? for similar ranges).

How much do barbershop owners make?

It depends on chairs, pricing, model and whether the owner cuts; owners can earn from their own chair plus booth rents or commission profit (see How much do barbers make?).

Frequently asked questions

How do I start a barbershop?

Get licensed, plan the business, choose a location, build out and equip the shop, choose booth rent or commission, hire barbers, set prices, add online booking and promote locally.

Do I need a barber licence to own a barbershop?

Owners may not need one if they don't cut, but the shop needs proper licensing and licensed barbers; check local rules.

How much does it cost to open a barbershop?

It varies with rent, build-out and equipment; small shops cost far less than premium build-outs.

How much does a barbershop owner make?

It depends on chairs filled, pricing, model and whether the owner also cuts hair.

Is booth rent or commission better for a barbershop?

Booth rent gives predictable income with less control; commission offers more control and upside with more management.

How do you promote a barber shop?

Instagram cut videos, Google reviews, online booking, local partnerships and community events.