Barber shop costs include the lease and build-out (plumbing for shampoo bowls, electrical for clippers and lighting), barber chairs and stations, mirrors, sterilization supplies, retail products, licensing, insurance, booking software and signage. Monthly costs include rent, utilities, supplies and software.
Worked example: chair economics
If a chair averages 8 cuts a day at $35 for 22 days, monthly service revenue is about $6,160. Under booth rent, the shop earns the rent; under commission, the shop keeps its share minus payroll costs. Model both with your local prices before choosing.
Build-out items
- Shampoo bowls and plumbing
- Electrical outlets at each station
- Lighting
- Waiting area
- Signage
Monthly costs
- Rent and utilities
- Supplies and sanitation
- Booking software
- Insurance
- Marketing
Itemized budget
| Line | What it covers | How to get the number |
|---|---|---|
| Lease and build-out | Stations, plumbing, electrical for clippers | Contractor bid |
| Barber chairs | Hydraulic, reclining for shaves | Dealer quotes |
| Stations and mirrors | Storage for each barber | Dealer quotes |
| Sinks | Shampoo and hand washing | Plumber quote |
| Sterilization | Disinfectant, UV or jars, tool storage | Supplier quote |
| Clippers, trimmers, shavers | Shop sets if provided | Supplier quote |
| Waiting area | Seating, TV, check-in tablet | Retail quotes |
| Licenses and insurance | Establishment license, liability | Board and agent |
| Booking and POS | Appointments, walk-ins, payments | Monthly plans |
| Website | Barbers, prices, booking | From $399 plus $30/month Website Care |
Worked example: chair rental math
Andre estimates the shop's fixed monthly costs and divides by the number of chairs to see the minimum weekly rent that covers costs, then compares with local rates and adds profit. For employee barbers, he compares commission percentages with what each chair would earn as rental. He reviews both models with his accountant before deciding.
One-time costs
| Item | Your quote |
|---|---|
| Build-out and chairs | $ ______ |
| Equipment | $ ______ |
| Licensing | $ ______ |
| Signage | $ ______ |
| Website build and domain | $ ______ |
Monthly costs
| Item | Your quote |
|---|---|
| Rent | $ ______ / month |
| Supplies | $ ______ / month |
| Booking software | $ ______ / month |
| Insurance | $ ______ / month |
| Website care | $ ______ / month |
Free tools
Common questions
How many chairs should I start with?
Enough to fill with barbers you trust; empty chairs cost money.
Is retail worth it?
Products add revenue with little space.
Should I buy used chairs?
Often fine if hydraulics work.
What software?
Booking tools built for barbers.
What is the biggest cost?
Usually the lease and build-out, then chairs and stations.
Should I buy used chairs?
Used hydraulic chairs can work if the pump holds and upholstery is intact.
Should the shop sell products?
A small shelf of pomades and beard oils adds revenue with little risk.
Should the shop pay for barbers' tools?
Decide in agreements; many barbers bring their own.
Sources
Sources checked October 6, 2026. Rules, fees and forms change; confirm details with the agency or provider before you act. This guide is general information, not legal, tax or insurance advice.
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