Opening a barbershop in Denmark 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—Copenhagen is generally more expensive than Aarhus or Odense—and by the size and fit-out of your shop. Everything in this guide is in Danish kroner (DKK). For licensing and legal steps, see our full walkthrough: How to open a barbershop in Denmark.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Denmark: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): DKK 140,000 – DKK 410,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): DKK 410,000 – DKK 860,000. Premium (Copenhagen): DKK 1,100,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Denmark
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.
- Copenhagen (city centre, Indre By, Vesterbro, Nørrebro): DKK 12,000 – DKK 42,000+ per month.
- Copenhagen (suburbs): DKK 7,000 – DKK 22,000 per month.
- Aarhus (city centre): DKK 8,000 – DKK 28,000 per month.
- Odense, Aalborg: DKK 6,000 – DKK 20,000 per month.
- Smaller towns: DKK 4,000 – DKK 12,000 per month.
Landlords often ask for a deposit (e.g. 1–3 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 DKK 45,000 – DKK 135,000 on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations (CVR, local and health compliance) can add DKK 4,000 – DKK 19,000 depending on your structure. More detail: how to open a barbershop in Denmark.
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 (DKK)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | DKK 45,000 – DKK 135,000 | DKK 112,000 – DKK 315,000 | DKK 315,000 – DKK 630,000 |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | DKK 21,000 – DKK 66,000 | DKK 42,000 – DKK 108,000 | DKK 72,000 – DKK 198,000 |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | DKK 17,000 – DKK 52,000 | DKK 35,000 – DKK 99,000 | DKK 57,000 – DKK 158,000 |
| Working capital | DKK 24,000 – DKK 73,000 | DKK 48,000 – DKK 144,000 | DKK 96,000 – DKK 212,000 |
| Total (DKK) | DKK 140,000 – DKK 410,000 | DKK 410,000 – DKK 860,000 | DKK 860,000 – DKK 1,100,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Denmark 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 Denmark
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, opening hours, photos and services). Use keywords like “herreklip [by]” or “barbershop [sted]” on your site and listings. Encourage Google reviews—they are a major local ranking factor in Denmark.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs DKK 140,000–DKK 410,000; a medium one DKK 410,000–DKK 860,000. A premium shop in Copenhagen can exceed DKK 1,100,000.
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 CVR and comply with local and health regulations. Full steps: how to open a barbershop in Denmark.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn DKK 18,000–DKK 42,000 per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches DKK 35,000–DKK 58,000 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Denmark step by step
For licensing, qualifications and legal requirements, see our full guide: How to open a barbershop in Denmark.