How Much Does It Cost to Open a Salon / Barbershop in Chicago, IL? (2026)
Estimated startup costs adjusted for Chicago's cost of living (107.0% of national average).
First-Year Total (Mid)
$102,613
Range: $40,773 – $210,576
One-Time Costs (Mid)
$42,265
Range: $14,445 – $89,880
Monthly Costs (Mid)
$5,029/mo
Range: $2,194 – $10,058
One-Time Startup Costs
Upfront investment needed to open
| Expense | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | $5,350 | $16,050 | $32,100 |
| Furniture | $2,140 | $5,350 | $10,700 |
| Initial Product Inventory | $1,070 | $3,210 | $6,420 |
| Licenses | $535 | $1,605 | $3,210 |
| Renovations | $5,350 | $16,050 | $37,450 |
| Total One-Time | $14,445 | $42,265 | $89,880 |
Monthly Operating Costs
Recurring expenses each month
| Expense | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insurance | $161 | $321 | $642 |
| Product Supplies | $535 | $1,605 | $3,210 |
| Rent | $1,284 | $2,675 | $5,350 |
| Utilities | $214 | $428 | $856 |
| Total Monthly | $2,194 | $5,029 | $10,058 |
First-Year Budget Summary
| Category | Low | Mid | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Time Startup Costs | $14,445 | $42,265 | $89,880 |
| Monthly Costs x 12 | $26,328 | $60,348 | $120,696 |
| Total First Year | $40,773 | $102,613 | $210,576 |
All estimates are adjusted for Chicago's cost of living index (107.0). National average = 100. A higher index means higher costs.
About Chicago, IL Business Costs
Chicago, IL has a cost of living index of 107.0 (where 100 is the national average). This is close to the national average, making it a fairly typical market for startup costs. Your costs should align closely with national benchmarks.
The estimates above use national average startup costs for a salon / barbershop, adjusted by the local cost of living factor (1.07x). Actual costs will vary based on your specific location within Chicago, the size of your operation, and current market conditions.
Salon / Barbershop Startup Costs in Other Cities
Other Business Types in Chicago, IL
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Need a More Detailed Estimate?
Use our interactive startup cost calculator to customize expenses for your specific situation.
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