Cosmetologist Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median cosmetologist salary in Durham, NC is $33,326 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Cosmetologist Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median cosmetologist salary of $33,326, which is $1,052 above the North Carolina state average of $32,274. Compared to the national median of $35,080, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% 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 Durham spans from $20,900 at the 10th percentile to $55,100 at the 90th percentile — a $34,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $22,800, while senior cosmetologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $52,250. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Cosmetologist Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level cosmetologist earns around $22,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,250 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $20,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $25,650 |
| Median (50th) | $33,326 |
| 75th Percentile | $43,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $55,100 |
Cosmetologist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Durham
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Cosmetologist Jobs in Durham
Browse open cosmetologist positions in Durham, NC: