Opening a barbershop in Switzerland 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—Zurich and Geneva are generally more expensive than Bern or Basel—and by the size and fit-out of your shop. Everything in this guide is in Swiss francs (CHF). For licensing and legal steps, see our full walkthrough: How to open a barbershop in Switzerland.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Switzerland: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): CHF 22,000 – CHF 65,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): CHF 60,000 – CHF 130,000. Premium (Zurich, Geneva): CHF 165,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Switzerland
Rent is one of the biggest fixed costs. Prime high streets and city centres cost more; suburbs and smaller towns are cheaper. Below are indicative monthly rents so you can plan your barbershop budget by area.
- Zurich (city centre, Bahnhofstrasse area, Kreis 4/5): CHF 1,800 – CHF 6,500+ per month.
- Geneva (city centre, Eaux-Vives, Plainpalais): CHF 1,600 – CHF 5,800 per month.
- Bern (city centre): CHF 1,200 – CHF 4,200 per month.
- Basel, Lausanne: CHF 1,100 – CHF 3,800 per month.
- Suburbs and smaller cities: CHF 700 – CHF 2,200 per month.
Landlords often ask for a deposit (e.g. 2–3 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 CHF 6,500 – CHF 21,000 on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations (cantonal register, local and health compliance) can add CHF 600 – CHF 2,800 depending on your structure. More detail: how to open a barbershop in Switzerland.
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 (CHF)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | CHF 6,500 – CHF 21,000 | CHF 17,000 – CHF 46,000 | CHF 46,000 – CHF 92,000 |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | CHF 3,200 – CHF 13,000 | CHF 6,400 – CHF 20,000 | CHF 10,600 – CHF 33,000 |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | CHF 2,600 – CHF 8,200 | CHF 5,200 – CHF 15,000 | CHF 8,400 – CHF 23,000 |
| Working capital | CHF 3,500 – CHF 10,500 | CHF 7,000 – CHF 21,000 | CHF 14,000 – CHF 31,000 |
| Total (CHF) | CHF 22,000 – CHF 65,000 | CHF 60,000 – CHF 130,000 | CHF 130,000 – CHF 165,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Switzerland 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 Switzerland
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, opening hours, photos and services). Use keywords like “Barbier [Ort]” or “coiffeur homme [ville]” on your site and listings depending on the canton. Encourage Google reviews—they are a major local ranking factor in Switzerland.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs CHF 22,000–CHF 65,000; a medium one CHF 60,000–CHF 130,000. A premium shop in Zurich or Geneva can exceed CHF 165,000.
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 with the cantonal commercial register and comply with local and health regulations. Full steps: how to open a barbershop in Switzerland.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn CHF 3,000–CHF 7,500 per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches CHF 6,000–CHF 10,000 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Switzerland step by step
For licensing, qualifications and legal requirements, see our full guide: How to open a barbershop in Switzerland.