Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists

O*NET 39-5012.00 · SOC 39-5012

Projected Growth
+1%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$36k
BLS OEWS, May 2025
Annual Openings
82k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Education & How to Get In

📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)

Most Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.

Get Started Learning

Ready to start building skills for a career as a Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists? These platforms offer courses you can start today — many with free trials or financial aid.

Coursera
University-backed courses and certificates
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Udemy
Affordable self-paced courses from $12.99
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Creative and professional skill classes
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LinkedIn Learning
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Work Environment

Primary Setting

Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites

Work Style

Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration

Personality Fit (RIASEC)

Realistic (Doers)5.4
Conventional (Organizers)3.9
Social (Helpers)3.7
Enterprising (Persuaders)3.3
Artistic (Creators)3.2
Investigative (Thinkers)1.5

Who Thrives as Hairdresser?

Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.

ESTPThe DynamoESFJThe ProviderESTJThe ExecutiveESFPThe Performer

Not sure which you are? Take the free 5-minute quiz →

See Open Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists Roles

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Is Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists right for you?

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