Cosmetologist Salary in Albany, New York
The median cosmetologist salary in Albany, NY is $34,378 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 19.7% below the New York state average.
Cosmetologist Pay in Albany: What to Expect (2026)
Albany offers a median cosmetologist salary of $34,378, which is $8,420 below the New York state average of $42,798. Compared to the national median of $35,080, Albany pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Albany's cost of living is 98% 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 Albany spans from $21,560 at the 10th percentile to $56,840 at the 90th percentile — a $35,280 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $23,520, while senior cosmetologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $53,900. Albany is a smaller market (pop. 99,224), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Cosmetologist Salary in Albany by Experience
In Albany, an entry-level cosmetologist earns around $23,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $53,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Albany, NY
| Percentile | Albany |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $21,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,460 |
| Median (50th) | $34,378 |
| 75th Percentile | $45,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $56,840 |
Cosmetologist Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Albany
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Albany and the surrounding New York 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 Albany may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Cosmetologist Jobs in Albany
Browse open cosmetologist positions in Albany, NY: