Opening a barbershop in Ghana 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—Accra is generally more expensive than Kumasi, Tamale or Sekondi-Takoradi—and by the size and fit-out of your shop. Everything in this guide is in Ghanaian cedis (GHS / GH₵). For licensing and legal steps, see How to start a barbershop.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Ghana: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): GH₵25,000 – GH₵80,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): GH₵80,000 – GH₵200,000. Premium (Accra): GH₵350,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Ghana
Rent is one of the biggest fixed costs. Prime streets and city centres cost more; suburbs and smaller towns are cheaper. Below are indicative monthly rents.
- Accra (Osu, East Legon, Cantonments, Airport area): GH₵2,500 – GH₵12,000+ per month.
- Accra (other areas): GH₵1,200 – GH₵5,000 per month.
- Kumasi (central, Ahodwo, North Suntreso): GH₵1,000 – GH₵5,500 per month.
- Tamale, Sekondi-Takoradi (prime): GH₵800 – GH₵3,500 per month.
- Smaller towns: GH₵400 – GH₵1,800 per month.
Landlords often ask for 1–2 months’ deposit and advance rent. Factor in at least 2–3 months’ rent for deposit and first payments.
Equipment and licences
For a 1–2 chair setup, expect roughly GH₵10,000 – GH₵32,000 on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations (Registrar General, district assembly permit, health) can add GH₵1,500 – GH₵6,000. 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 (GHS)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment | GH₵10,000 – GH₵32,000 | GH₵28,000 – GH₵72,000 | GH₵72,000 – GH₵145,000 |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | GH₵4,000 – GH₵18,000 | GH₵8,000 – GH₵30,000 | GH₵14,000 – GH₵48,000 |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | GH₵3,500 – GH₵12,000 | GH₵7,000 – GH₵25,000 | GH₵12,000 – GH₵42,000 |
| Working capital | GH₵4,000 – GH₵12,000 | GH₵8,000 – GH₵24,000 | GH₵16,000 – GH₵40,000 |
| Total (GHS) | GH₵25,000 – GH₵80,000 | GH₵80,000 – GH₵200,000 | GH₵200,000 – GH₵350,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Ghana is 55–70%. Break-even often occurs within 6–12 months if location and pricing are right. To keep costs down: consider second-hand equipment, negotiate rent, use low-cost marketing (Google Business Profile, Instagram) and efficient booking software.
Local SEO and visibility in Ghana
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, hours, photos, services). Use keywords like “barbershop [area]” or “men’s haircut [city]” on your site and listings. Encourage Google reviews for local ranking.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs GH₵25,000–GH₵80,000; a medium one GH₵80,000–GH₵200,000. A premium shop in Accra can exceed GH₵350,000.
Is it profitable?
Yes. With a good location and operations, many barbershops hit break-even within 6–12 months.
What licences do I need?
Register with the Registrar General, obtain a business operating permit from the district assembly, and comply with health regulations. Full steps: how to start a barbershop.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn GH₵3,000–GH₵9,000 per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches GH₵7,000–GH₵18,000 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Ghana step by step
For licensing and legal requirements, see our guide: How to start a barbershop.