Cosmetologist Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median cosmetologist salary in Athens, GA is $31,572 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Cosmetologist Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median cosmetologist salary of $31,572, which is $1,052 below the Georgia state average of $32,624. Compared to the national median of $35,080, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for cosmetologists in Athens spans from $19,800 at the 10th percentile to $52,200 at the 90th percentile — a $32,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $21,600, while senior cosmetologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $49,500. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Cosmetologist Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level cosmetologist earns around $21,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $49,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $19,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $24,300 |
| Median (50th) | $31,572 |
| 75th Percentile | $41,400 |
| 90th Percentile | $52,200 |
Cosmetologist Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Athens
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Athens and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, cosmetologist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Cosmetologist Jobs in Athens
Browse open cosmetologist positions in Athens, GA: