Personal Care

Cosmetologist

A comprehensive guide to Cosmetologist licensing requirements across all 50 states. Compare median salaries, educational prerequisites, and processing timelines to plan your next career move effectively.

Median Salary

$35,932 / yr

Min. Education

Specific course required

Job Outlook

Below national median; evaluate local demand

Top Paying State

Washington

Coverage: 50 states

Best StatesWeighted score Highest PayingAnnual median salary Fastest LicenseShortest typical licensing path Lowest CostLowest parsed initial licensing fee

Downloadable Guide

The Complete Cosmetologist Career Guide

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Top Paying State

Washington

$58,920 / yr

View Requirements

Rank #2

Hawaii

$52,000 / yr

View Requirements

Rank #3

Vermont

$49,640 / yr

View Requirements

State	Median Salary	License Type	Education Required	Est. Timeline	Action
WA WashingtonCompact: No	$58,920Avg. Growth	Stand-alone license	Degree required	Varies by board	Details
HI HawaiiCompact: Yes	$52,000Avg. Growth	Stand-alone license	Specific course required	Varies by board	Details
VT VermontCompact: Yes	$49,640Avg. Growth	Stand-alone license	Specific course required	Varies by board	Details
SD South DakotaCompact: Pending	$49,050Avg. Growth	Register with licensing agency	Varies by state board	Varies by board	Details
ME MaineCompact: Yes	$48,480Avg. Growth	Tied to business	No educational requirements	Varies by board	Details
MA MassachusettsCompact: No	$47,740Avg. Growth	Stand-alone license	Degree required	Varies by board	Details