Careers · Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists · District of Columbia

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists in District of Columbia

Hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists provide beauty services including cutting, coloring, and styling hair, as well as scalp treatments, shampooing, makeup application, wig dressing, hair removal, and nail and skincare services. They work in salons, spas, and beauty shops, typically serving walk-in and appointment clients. In District of Columbia the median pay is $54,570 a year, 52% above the national median of $35,790.

$54,570median pay in District of Columbia, per year

$45,250–$77,620middle half earn

870employed in District of Columbia

$35,790U.S. median, for comparison

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What it takes

Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience).

Skills that matter most

Active ListeningSpeakingService OrientationCritical ThinkingActive LearningJudgment and Decision MakingSocial PerceptivenessReading Comprehension

Knowledge areas

Customer and Personal ServiceSales and MarketingEnglish LanguageAdministration and ManagementEducation and TrainingPublic Safety and Security

Full profile, interests that fit, certifications and training: Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists.

Licenses and training in District of Columbia

Local training programs Certifications Licenses in your state Apprenticeships

Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists pay in other states

Washington · $59,510 Oregon · $57,580 South Dakota · $49,800 Vermont · $48,650 Connecticut · $44,620 Maine · $44,000 Minnesota · $39,170 California · $38,660 North Carolina · $38,410 Montana · $38,000

Related occupations

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Are you suited for this?
Four short assessments and your background, scored against hairdressers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.

Find out in 15 minutes See openings

O*NET-SOC 39-5012.00. Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, District of Columbia, annual.