Opening a barbershop in Italy 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—Milan and Rome are generally more expensive than Naples, Turin or Florence—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 open a barbershop in Italy.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Italy: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): €18,000 – €55,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): €55,000 – €115,000. Premium (Milan, Rome): €145,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus first months), fit-out, licences and working capital.
Rent and premises: what to expect in Italy
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.
- Milan (city centre, Brera, Navigli): €1,400 – €5,000+ per month.
- Rome (city centre, Trastevere, Monti): €1,200 – €4,200 per month.
- Naples (city centre, Vomero): €700 – €2,500 per month.
- Turin, Florence, Bologna: €800 – €2,800 per month.
- Suburbs and smaller cities: €400 – €1,500 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 €6,000 – €18,000 on chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors, wash basins and basic furniture. Licences and registrations (Partita IVA, local and health compliance) can add €500 – €2,500 depending on your structure. More detail: how to open a barbershop in Italy.
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 | €6,000 – €18,000 | €15,000 – €42,000 | €42,000 – €84,000 |
| Rent (deposit + 2 months) | €2,800 – €9,000 | €5,400 – €14,400 | €9,000 – €27,000 |
| Fit-out, licences, marketing | €2,300 – €7,000 | €4,600 – €13,200 | €7,600 – €21,600 |
| Working capital | €3,200 – €9,800 | €6,400 – €19,200 | €12,800 – €28,800 |
| Total (EUR) | €18,000 – €55,000 | €55,000 – €115,000 | €115,000 – €145,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
Typical gross margin for a well-run barbershop in Italy 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 Italy
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile (name, address, phone, opening hours, photos and services). Use keywords like “barbiere [città]” or “barbiershop [quartiere]” on your site and listings. Encourage Google reviews—they are a major local ranking factor in Italy.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need?
A small barbershop usually needs €18,000–€55,000; a medium one €55,000–€115,000. A premium shop in Milan or Rome can exceed €145,000.
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 Partita IVA and must comply with local and health regulations. Full steps: how to open a barbershop in Italy.
How much does the owner make?
An owner who also cuts might earn €2,200–€5,500 per month in a small shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches €4,500–€8,000 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in Italy step by step
For licensing, qualifications and legal requirements, see our full guide: How to open a barbershop in Italy.