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 St. Louis, these costs are adjusted downward based on the local cost of living.

Is St. Louis an expensive city to start a salon / barbershop?

St. Louis, MO has a cost of living index of 90.0 (national average = 100). This is below the national average, meaning startup costs will be lower than in most U.S. cities.

How much should I budget monthly to run a salon / barbershop in St. Louis?

Typical monthly operating costs for a salon / barbershop in St. Louis range from $1,845 to $8,460, with a mid-range estimate of $4,230 per month. This covers rent, utilities, insurance, and supplies.

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

Licensing requirements vary, but you'll typically need a general business license, an EIN, and state-specific permits. In MO, check with your local city clerk and the MO Secretary of State for exact requirements. Budget $1,350 for licensing and permits.

How Much Does It Cost to Open a Salon / Barbershop in St. Louis, MO? (2026)

Estimated startup costs adjusted for St. Louis's cost of living (90.0% of national average).

First-Year Total (Mid)

$86,310

Range: $34,290 – $177,120

One-Time Costs (Mid)

$35,550

Range: $12,150 – $75,600

Monthly Costs (Mid)

$4,230/mo

Range: $1,845 – $8,460

One-Time Startup Costs

Upfront investment needed to open

Expense	Low	Mid	High
Equipment	$4,500	$13,500	$27,000
Furniture	$1,800	$4,500	$9,000
Initial Product Inventory	$900	$2,700	$5,400
Licenses	$450	$1,350	$2,700
Renovations	$4,500	$13,500	$31,500
Total One-Time	$12,150	$35,550	$75,600

Monthly Operating Costs

Recurring expenses each month

Expense	Low	Mid	High
Insurance	$135	$270	$540
Product Supplies	$450	$1,350	$2,700
Rent	$1,080	$2,250	$4,500
Utilities	$180	$360	$720
Total Monthly	$1,845	$4,230	$8,460

First-Year Budget Summary

Category	Low	Mid	High
One-Time Startup Costs	$12,150	$35,550	$75,600
Monthly Costs x 12	$22,140	$50,760	$101,520
Total First Year	$34,290	$86,310	$177,120

All estimates are adjusted for St. Louis's cost of living index (90.0). National average = 100. A higher index means higher costs.

About St. Louis, MO Business Costs

St. Louis, MO has a cost of living index of 90.0 (where 100 is the national average). This is below the national average, meaning your money goes further here. You can expect to save roughly 10% compared to national averages on most expenses.

The estimates above use national average startup costs for a salon / barbershop, adjusted by the local cost of living factor (0.9x). Actual costs will vary based on your specific location within St. Louis, 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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