Personal Care & Fitness Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Barber Salary in Massachusetts

The median barber salary in Massachusetts is $48,249 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $35,740.

Median Salary
$48,249
vs National
+$12,509
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Barber Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for barber compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for barbers seeking high pay. At $48,249 per year, barbers in Massachusetts earn $12,509 more than the national median of $35,740.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $48,249 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $35,740.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: barbers at the 10th percentile earn $31,050, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $83,700 — a $52,650 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $57,184.

Nationally, barber employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for barbers across the country.

Barber Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level barber earns around $33,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,300 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,750
+$8,750 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,950
+$12,950 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$78,300
+$20,300 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $31,050
25th Percentile $37,800
Median (50th) $48,249
75th Percentile $64,800
90th Percentile $83,700

Barber Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for barbers in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Barber in Massachusetts

Education

Most barber positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

HaircuttingShavingClient ConsultationSanitationStylingBusiness Management

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, barber employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Barber Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Barber make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median barber salary in Massachusetts is $48,249 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $35,740. Salaries range from $31,050 (10th percentile) to $83,700 (90th percentile).
How much does a Barber make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $48,249, a barber in Massachusetts earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for barbers? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for barber pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level barbers earn $33,750, while senior professionals earn $78,300.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for barber salary? ▼
The highest paying state for barbers is Hawaii at $60,758. Massachusetts's median of $48,249 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($60,758) and California ($49,321).
What is the entry-level barber salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level barber in Massachusetts earns approximately $33,750 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,950. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $78,300.
What city in Massachusetts pays barbers the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for barbers, with a median salary of $57,184. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.