Cosmetologist Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median cosmetologist salary in Raleigh, NC is $34,378 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Cosmetologist Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median cosmetologist salary of $34,378, which is $2,104 above the North Carolina state average of $32,274. Compared to the national median of $35,080, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh'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 Raleigh 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. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Cosmetologist Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, 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 Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $21,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,460 |
| Median (50th) | $34,378 |
| 75th Percentile | $45,080 |
| 90th Percentile | $56,840 |
Cosmetologist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Raleigh
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Raleigh 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Cosmetologist Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open cosmetologist positions in Raleigh, NC: