Opening a barbershop in Austria is a realistic way to run your own business, but you need a clear picture of upfront and ongoing costs. Rents and costs vary by city—Vienna is generally more expensive than Graz, Salzburg or Innsbruck—and by the size and fit-out of your shop. Everything in this guide is in euros (EUR). For licensing and legal steps, see our full walkthrough: How to start a barbershop.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Austria: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): €22,000 – €68,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): €68,000 – €145,000. Premium (Vienna): €190,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Austria
Rent is one of the biggest fixed costs. Prime high streets and city centres cost more; suburbs and smaller cities are cheaper. Below are indicative monthly rents so you can plan your barbershop budget by area.
- Vienna (1st district, Mariahilfer Straße, Naschmarkt area): €1,400 – €5,500+ per month.
- Vienna (other districts, suburbs): €850 – €3,200 per month.
- Graz (city centre): €900 – €3,500 per month.
- Salzburg, Innsbruck (city centre): €950 – €3,800 per month.
- Other cities and towns: €500 – €2,200 per month.
Landlords often ask for a deposit (e.g. 1–2 months’ rent) and advance rent. Factor in at least 2–3 months’ rent for deposit and first payments when working out your startup costs.
Equipment and licences
For a 1–2 chair setup, expect to spend roughly €7,500 – €23,000 on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations (Gewerbe, Finanzamt, social insurance, health compliance) can add €900 – €3,500 depending on your structure. More detail: how to start a barbershop.
Management software
Barbería Club helps you manage appointments and clients from day one. You can try Barbería Club for free.
Cost breakdown by shop size (EUR)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | €7,500 – €23,000 | €21,000 – €52,000 | €52,000 – €102,000 |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | €3,200 – €12,500 | €6,400 – €20,000 | €11,000 – €36,000 |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | €2,800 – €8,500 | €5,600 – €16,000 | €9,500 – €26,000 |
| Working capital | €3,500 – €10,500 | €7,000 – €21,000 | €14,000 – €32,000 |
| Total (EUR) | €22,000 – €68,000 | €68,000 – €145,000 | €145,000 – €190,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Austria is 60–70%. Break-even often occurs within 6–12 months if location and pricing are right. To keep costs down: consider second-hand or refurbished equipment, negotiate rent or incentives with the landlord, use low-cost marketing (Google Business Profile, Instagram) and run the shop with efficient booking software.
Local SEO and visibility in Austria
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, opening hours, photos and services). Use keywords like “Herrenfriseur [Stadt]” or “Barbershop [Bezirk]” on your site and listings. Encourage Google reviews—they are a major local ranking factor in Austria.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs €22,000–€68,000; a medium one €68,000–€145,000. A premium shop in Vienna can exceed €190,000.
Is it profitable?
Yes. With a good location and operations, many barbershops hit break-even within 6–12 months.
What licences do I need?
You need to register a Gewerbe, obtain the required trade licence for hairdressing/barbering, register with Finanzamt and social insurance, and comply with health and safety rules. Full steps: how to start a barbershop.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn €2,400–€6,200 per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches €4,800–€8,500 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Austria step by step
For licensing, qualifications and legal requirements, see our full guide: How to start a barbershop.