What are the biggest startup expenses for a salon / barbershop?

The largest one-time costs are typically equipment and renovations. Monthly, the biggest expenses are usually rent and supplies or inventory. In Philadelphia, these costs are adjusted upward based on the local cost of living.

Is Philadelphia an expensive city to start a salon / barbershop?

Philadelphia, PA has a cost of living index of 112.0 (national average = 100). This is above the national average, meaning startup costs will be higher than in most U.S. cities.

How much should I budget monthly to run a salon / barbershop in Philadelphia?

Typical monthly operating costs for a salon / barbershop in Philadelphia range from $2,296 to $10,528, with a mid-range estimate of $5,264 per month. This covers rent, utilities, insurance, and supplies.

What licenses and permits do I need to open a salon / barbershop in PA?

Licensing requirements vary, but you'll typically need a general business license, an EIN, and state-specific permits. In PA, check with your local city clerk and the PA Secretary of State for exact requirements. Budget $1,680 for licensing and permits.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Salon / Barbershop in Philadelphia, PA? (2026)

Estimated startup costs adjusted for Philadelphia's cost of living (112.0% of national average).

First-Year Total (Mid)

$107,408

Range: $42,672 – $220,416

One-Time Costs (Mid)

$44,240

Range: $15,120 – $94,080

Monthly Costs (Mid)

$5,264/mo

Range: $2,296 – $10,528

One-Time Startup Costs

Upfront investment needed to open

Expense	Low	Mid	High
Equipment	$5,600	$16,800	$33,600
Furniture	$2,240	$5,600	$11,200
Initial Product Inventory	$1,120	$3,360	$6,720
Licenses	$560	$1,680	$3,360
Renovations	$5,600	$16,800	$39,200
Total One-Time	$15,120	$44,240	$94,080

Monthly Operating Costs

Recurring expenses each month

Expense	Low	Mid	High
Insurance	$168	$336	$672
Product Supplies	$560	$1,680	$3,360
Rent	$1,344	$2,800	$5,600
Utilities	$224	$448	$896
Total Monthly	$2,296	$5,264	$10,528

First-Year Budget Summary

Category	Low	Mid	High
One-Time Startup Costs	$15,120	$44,240	$94,080
Monthly Costs x 12	$27,552	$63,168	$126,336
Total First Year	$42,672	$107,408	$220,416

All estimates are adjusted for Philadelphia's cost of living index (112.0). National average = 100. A higher index means higher costs.

About Philadelphia, PA Business Costs

Philadelphia, PA has a cost of living index of 112.0 (where 100 is the national average). This is above the national average. Expect to pay moderately more for rent, utilities, and supplies. Budget roughly 12% above national estimates.

The estimates above use national average startup costs for a salon / barbershop, adjusted by the local cost of living factor (1.12x). Actual costs will vary based on your specific location within Philadelphia, the size of your operation, and current market conditions.

Salon / Barbershop Startup Costs in Other Cities

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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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