How Much Does It Cost to Start a Barber Shop?
- Nate Jones, CPCU, ARM, CLCS, AU
- Aug 26, 2025
- 3 min read
Starting a barber shop is an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about grooming and personal care. But before you open your doors, it’s important to understand the financial investment required. From equipment and renovations to insurance and licensing, the costs can vary widely depending on your location and business model.
At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping barber shop owners protect their businesses with tailored barber shop insurance. This guide breaks down the typical startup costs and highlights the insurance coverages you’ll need to operate safely and successfully.
Startup Costs for a Barber Shop
The average cost to start a barber shop ranges from $20,000 to $75,000, depending on your setup. Here's a breakdown of the major expenses:
1. Lease and Location
Commercial lease deposit: $2,000–$10,000+
Monthly rent: $1,000–$5,000
Choose a location with high foot traffic and visibility.
2. Renovations and Interior Setup
Build-out and decor: $5,000–$25,000
Includes flooring, lighting, mirrors, waiting area furniture, and branding.
3. Barber Equipment
Chairs: $500–$2,000 each
Clippers, trimmers, scissors: $1,000–$3,000
Sinks and sanitation stations: $2,000–$5,000
4. Licensing and Permits
Business license: $50–$500
Barber shop license: Varies by state
5. Marketing and Branding
Logo and signage: $500–$2,000
Website and social media setup: $500–$3,000
Local advertising: $500–$2,000
Build Your Barber Brand with Contractor Back Office
Contractor Back Office helps barber shop owners create a professional image by managing websites, email, CRM systems, and social media. These tools support your branding, boost online visibility, and help attract clients from day one.
6. Staffing and Payroll
Barbers’ salaries or commissions
Payroll software and HR setup: $500–$1,500
Barber Shop Insurance Coverages
Covers third-party injuries and property damage. Essential for walk-in shops and customer-facing businesses.
Estimated Cost: $37–$45 per month
Protects vehicles used for business purposes, such as mobile barber services or supply runs.
Around $147 per month
Covers your shop’s physical assets, including furniture, equipment, and signage, against fire, theft, and vandalism.
Estimated Cost: Typically included in a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP) at $54–$68 per month
Required if you have employees. Covers medical expenses and lost wages due to work-related injuries.
Estimated Cost: $14–$70 per month depending on payroll and location
Protects your professional tools—clippers, scissors, chairs—from damage, theft, or loss.
Estimated Cost: $40–$80 per month if purchased separately
Save on Startup Costs
Buy gently used equipment from trusted suppliers
Start with fewer chairs and expand as demand grows
Negotiate lease terms or consider shared spaces
Bundle insurance policies with a niche provider like Wexford Insurance
Estimated Costs
Category | Item | Estimated Cost |
Lease and Location | Commercial Lease Deposit | $2,000–$10,000+ |
Monthly Rent | $1,000–$5,000 | |
Renovations and Interior | Build-out and Decor | $5,000–$25,000 |
Barber Equipment | Chairs | $500–$2,000 each |
Clippers, Trimmers, Scissors | $1,000–$3,000 | |
Sinks and Sanitation Stations | $2,000–$5,000 | |
Licensing and Permits | Business License | $50–$500 |
Barber Shop License | Varies by state | |
Marketing and Branding | Logo and Signage | $500–$2,000 |
Website and Social Media Setup | $500–$3,000 | |
Local Advertising | $500–$2,000 | |
Staffing and Payroll | Payroll Software and HR Setup | $500–$1,500 |
Insurance | General Liability Insurance | $37–$45/month |
Commercial Auto Insurance | Around $147/month | |
Commercial Property Insurance | $54–$68/month (BOP) | |
Workers’ Compensation Insurance | $14–$70/month | |
Tools and Equipment Insurance | $40–$80/month |
External Resources
Final Thoughts
Launching a barber shop requires careful planning and budgeting. By understanding your startup costs and securing the right insurance coverage, you’ll be better prepared to build a successful business. At Wexford Insurance, we specialize in helping barber shop owners get the protection they need to operate with confidence.
