Cosmetologist Salary in Madison, Wisconsin
The median cosmetologist salary in Madison, WI is $35,080 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 8.7% above the Wisconsin state average.
Cosmetologist Pay in Madison: What to Expect (2026)
Madison offers a median cosmetologist salary of $35,080, which is $2,806 above the Wisconsin state average of $32,274. Compared to the national median of $35,080, Madison pays above average for this role.
Madison's cost of living is 100% 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 Madison spans from $22,000 at the 10th percentile to $58,000 at the 90th percentile — a $36,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $24,000, while senior cosmetologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $55,000. With a population of 269,840, Madison is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Cosmetologist Salary in Madison by Experience
In Madison, an entry-level cosmetologist earns around $24,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $55,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Madison, WI
| Percentile | Madison |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $22,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,000 |
| Median (50th) | $35,080 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $58,000 |
Cosmetologist Salary in Other Wisconsin Cities
How to Become a Cosmetologist in Madison
Education
Most cosmetologist positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Madison and the surrounding Wisconsin 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 Madison may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Cosmetologist Jobs in Madison
Browse open cosmetologist positions in Madison, WI: