How to start a barbershop

Do you dream of starting a barbershop of your own? Opening a barbershop business can be an excellent entrepreneurial opportunity, but it requires planning, investment, and knowledge of the industry. In this complete guide, we explain everything you need to know to turn your passion for barbering into a profitable business.

From legal procedures to marketing strategy, through equipment selection and location, we'll guide you step by step so you can open your barbershop with confidence and success.

Why Start a Barbershop?

Before diving into practical steps, it's important to understand why barbering is an attractive business:

• Constant demand: Men need regular haircuts, creating a predictable client flow
• Low inventory cost: You don't need to maintain large quantities of products in stock
• Personalized service: You can build lasting relationships with your clients
• Scalability: You can start small and grow gradually
• Flexibility: You decide your hours and your business style

1. Business Plan: The Fundamental First Step

Every successful business starts with a solid plan. Your business plan should include:

Market Analysis

Research your area before starting a barbershop:

• How many barbershops are there within a 5 km radius?
• What are their average prices?
• What services do they offer?
• What is the client profile in the area?
• Is there unmet demand?

Financial Projections

Calculate your realistic numbers:

• Initial investment: Equipment, rent, procedures, marketing
• Monthly costs: Rent, utilities, products, salaries
• Projected income: Number of daily clients × average price
• Break-even point: How many clients you need to cover costs
• Expected profitability: When you'll start generating profits

Define Your Value Proposition

What makes you different? Clearly define:

• Your style and specialty (classic cuts, modern, beard, etc.)
• Your target audience (young, professionals, seniors)
• Your positioning (premium, affordable, specialized)
• Experience you offer (atmosphere, music, drinks, etc.)

2. Initial Investment: How Much Money Do You Need?

To start a barbershop you need to consider several costs:

Basic Equipment

• Barber chairs: $800-2,500 USD each (you need at least 1-2)
• Mirrors: $200-500 USD
• Clippers: $150-400 USD each
• Professional scissors: $100-300 USD
• Razors and tools: $200-500 USD
• Sink and washing station: $500-1,500 USD
• Care products: $300-800 USD (initial stock)
• Furniture (reception, waiting): $500-1,500 USD

Total equipment: Approximately $3,000-8,000 USD (Estimate based on 2025 market average prices)

Installation Expenses

• Rent (deposit + first month): $500-2,000 USD
• Remodeling/Decoration: $1,000-5,000 USD
• Lighting: $300-800 USD
• Signage: $200-600 USD
• Electrical installations: $500-1,500 USD

Procedures and Permits

Important: The costs of procedures and permits vary significantly depending on location (city, state, country). These prices are general estimates, but you must research the specific costs in your area before making your final budget.

• Business registration: $50-250 USD
• Health permits: $100-400 USD
• Municipal licenses: $75-300 USD
• Insurance: $150-400 USD (annual)

Initial Marketing

• Basic website: $100-400 USD
• Social media (professional setup): $50-150 USD
• Graphic material: $100-250 USD
• Opening promotions: $150-500 USD

Total estimated investment: $5,500-18,500 USD depending on size and location. (Figures based on 2025 market averages according to barbershop entrepreneurship studies)

3. Location: Choosing the Perfect Place

Location can determine the success or failure of your barbershop. Consider these factors:

Ideal Location Criteria

• Foot traffic: Areas with high pedestrian movement
• Parking: Ease for clients to park
• Visibility: Storefront visible from main street
• Competition: Not too much, but some commercial activity
• Demographics: Area with your target audience
• Accessibility: Easy to reach by public or private transport

Types of Locations

• Shopping center: High traffic, but expensive rent
• Main street: Good visibility, constant traffic
• Residential neighborhood: Loyal local clients, less competition
• Mixed commercial area: Balance between traffic and cost

Negotiating Rent

When starting a barbershop, rent is one of your biggest fixed costs:

• Negotiate a grace period (1-2 months without paying at the start)
• Request renewal option in the contract
• Verify the location has necessary installations (water, electricity)
• Consider rent with purchase option if you plan to stay long-term

4. Essential Equipment for Your Barbershop

Investing in good equipment is crucial. Don't skimp on professional tools:

Barber Chairs

Chairs are the heart of your barbershop. Look for:

• Resistance and durability
• Smooth hydraulic mechanism
• Quality upholstery
• Style that reflects your brand

Cutting Tools

• Professional clippers: Wahl, Andis, Oster are reliable brands
• Scissors: Invest in quality Japanese or German scissors
• Razors: For traditional shaves
• Combs and brushes: Variety of sizes and styles

Care Products

Initial stock of essential products:

• Shampoos and conditioners
• Pomades and styling waxes
• Beard products
• Aftershave lotions
• Towels and disposable sheets

Furniture and Decoration

• Comfortable waiting sofa or chairs
• Functional reception
• Large, well-lit mirrors
• Decoration that reflects your style (vintage, modern, industrial)
• Music and atmosphere (sound system)

5. Legal Procedures and Permits

To legally start a barbershop, you need several documents:

Business Registration

• Choose your legal structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, Corp depending on your country)
• Register the trade name
• Obtain tax identification number

Health Permits

Barbershops must comply with hygiene standards:

• Health certificate for the location
• Cosmetic products registration
• Cleaning and disinfection protocols
• Periodic inspections

Municipal Licenses

• Opening license
• Land use permit
• Authorized signage

Insurance

• Liability insurance: Protects against accidents
• Location insurance: Fire, theft, damage
• Equipment insurance: Protects your investment

6. Hiring Staff (Or Working Alone)

Decide if you'll start alone or hire barbers from the beginning:

Starting Alone

Advantages:

• Lower initial investment
• Greater control over quality
• You know all your clients
• Lower fixed costs

Disadvantages:

• Limited capacity
• Can't grow without hiring
• You work more hours

Hiring Barbers

If you decide to hire from the start:

• Look for barbers with experience and good portfolio
• Clearly define payment structure (fixed, commission, mixed)
• Establish schedules and responsibilities
• Create a positive work environment

7. Marketing and Promotion to Get Started

To start a successful barbershop, you need to make yourself known:

Before Opening

• Social media: Create profiles on Instagram and Facebook
• Website: Include services, prices, location, bookings
• Google My Business: Register to appear in local searches
• Promotional material: Cards, flyers, banners

Grand Opening

Organize a memorable opening event:

• Special discounts (50% off first week)
• Free haircut raffle
• Live music or DJ
• Drinks and snacks
• Invite local influencers
• Local press (newspapers, radio)

Ongoing Marketing

• Social media content: Publish work, tips, behind the scenes
• Referral program: Discount for bringing a friend
• Collaborations: Work with other local businesses
• Reviews: Ask satisfied clients to leave reviews

8. Pricing and Service Strategy

Define your prices strategically:

Competition Analysis

Research prices in your area:

• Basic haircut: $15-40 USD
• Haircut + beard: $25-60 USD
• Traditional shave: $20-50 USD
• Special treatments: $30-80 USD

Pricing Structure

Consider different strategies:

• Competitive price: Similar to competition
• Premium price: More expensive, but better quality/experience
• Penetration price: Cheaper at start to gain clients

Additional Services

Diversify your income:

• Sale of care products
• Beard services (trimming, design)
• Hair treatments
• Packages and memberships

9. Day-to-Day Management

Once you start your barbershop, daily management is key:

Booking System

Organize your appointments efficiently:

• Use an appointment management system like Barbería Club to organize your bookings professionally
• Send reminders to clients
• Keep an updated calendar
• Manage cancellations and rescheduling

Inventory Control

• Keep track of products used
• Restock before running out
• Negotiate with suppliers for better prices
• Control expiration dates

Finances

• Keep daily income and expense records
• Set aside money for taxes
• Review your numbers weekly
• Adjust prices and costs as needed

10. Common Mistakes When Starting a Barbershop

Avoid these frequent mistakes:

• Underestimating costs: Always budget 20% more than calculated
• Choosing bad location: Saving on rent can cost you clients
• Cheap equipment: Invest in quality, you'll save long-term
• No emergency reserve: Save 3-6 months of expenses
• Ignoring marketing: Opening isn't enough, you need to promote
• Not knowing competition: Research before opening
• Prices too low: Hard to raise later, and you don't cover costs

How Long Does It Take for a Barbershop to Be Profitable?

The time to reach profitability varies depending on several factors:

• Location: Areas with more traffic fill up faster
• Marketing: A good strategy speeds up the process
• Service quality: Satisfied clients bring more clients
• Initial capital: More reserve allows you to hold on longer

On average, a barbershop can start being profitable between 6-12 months if managed correctly. The first 3 months are usually the most difficult while you build your client base.

Conclusion

Starting a barbershop is an exciting project that requires planning, investment, and dedication. With a solid plan, good location, quality equipment, and effective marketing strategy, you can build a successful and profitable business.

Remember that success doesn't come overnight. Be patient, maintain service quality, listen to your clients, and adjust your strategy based on what you learn along the way.

Ready to start your own barbershop? Start by creating your business plan, research your local market, and take the first step toward making your dream of owning a barbershop a reality.