The Philippines has a vibrant barbershop culture, with shops ranging from simple neighborhood cuts to upscale men's grooming studios. Startup costs are relatively accessible compared to other Southeast Asian markets, but they vary significantly between Metro Manila or Cebu and provincial cities. All figures in this guide are in Philippine pesos (PHP). For registration steps and legal requirements, see our full guide: How to open a barbershop in the Philippines.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in the Philippines: quick answer
Small barbershop (1–2 chairs): ₱150,000 – ₱500,000. Medium (3–4 chairs): ₱500,000 – ₱1,500,000. Premium shop in Metro Manila or Cebu: ₱1,500,000 – ₱2,000,000+. These figures include equipment, rent (deposit plus advance), fit-out, permits and working capital.
Rent by city: what to expect in the Philippines
Rent varies enormously between prime commercial areas in Metro Manila and provincial cities. Mall-based shops command a premium over street-level locations.
- Makati, BGC (Bonifacio Global City), Ortigas: ₱50,000 – ₱200,000+ per month.
- Quezon City, Mandaluyong, San Juan (commercial areas): ₱20,000 – ₱80,000 per month.
- Manila (Ermita, Malate, Binondo): ₱15,000 – ₱60,000 per month.
- Cebu City (Lahug, IT Park, Ayala Center area): ₱25,000 – ₱100,000 per month.
- Davao City (Abreeza, Ilustre, Matina): ₱15,000 – ₱60,000 per month.
- Provincial cities (Iloilo, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro): ₱8,000 – ₱35,000 per month.
Many landlords in the Philippines require 2–3 months' advance rent plus a security deposit. Budget accordingly when calculating your startup costs.
Equipment and permits
For a 1–2 chair setup, budget roughly ₱50,000 – ₱180,000 for barber chairs, mirrors, clippers, scissors and furniture. A premium 4-chair setup with full interiors can run ₱400,000–₱900,000. Permits—DTI or SEC registration, Barangay clearance, Mayor's Permit, BIR registration—typically add ₱5,000 – ₱25,000 depending on your LGU. Full details: how to open a barbershop in the Philippines.
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 (PHP)
| Item | Small | Medium | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Equipment & interiors | ₱50,000 – ₱180,000 | ₱180,000 – ₱550,000 | ₱550,000 – ₱1,000,000 |
| Rent (advance + deposit) | ₱48,000 – ₱200,000 | ₱120,000 – ₱500,000 | ₱400,000 – ₱900,000 |
| Permits, marketing | ₱20,000 – ₱60,000 | ₱60,000 – ₱180,000 | ₱150,000 – ₱400,000 |
| Working capital | ₱32,000 – ₱60,000 | ₱80,000 – ₱270,000 | ₱250,000 – ₱600,000 |
| Total (PHP) | ₱150,000 – ₱500,000 | ₱500,000 – ₱1,500,000 | ₱1,500,000 – ₱2,000,000+ |
Profitability and ways to save
A well-run barbershop in the Philippines typically achieves gross margins of 55–70%. Break-even often occurs within 6–10 months with consistent walk-in and repeat clients. To keep costs down: source local suppliers for equipment, negotiate rent-free periods, use Facebook and TikTok for free marketing (both are dominant platforms in the Philippines), and use booking software to reduce no-shows and streamline operations.
Local SEO for barbershops in the Philippines
Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile with your exact name, address, phone number and photos. Use area-specific keywords like "barbershop [barangay/area]" or "barber near me [city]". Collect Google reviews—they are the strongest local ranking signal. Facebook pages and Facebook Marketplace are also important for local discovery in the Philippines.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need to open a barbershop in the Philippines?
A small barbershop typically needs ₱150,000–₱500,000; a medium shop ₱500,000–₱1,500,000. A premium Metro Manila setup can exceed ₱2,000,000.
Is a barbershop profitable in the Philippines?
Yes. With consistent foot traffic and quality service, many barbershops in the Philippines reach break-even within 6–10 months.
What permits do I need in the Philippines?
You need DTI or SEC registration, Barangay Business Clearance, Mayor's Permit from your LGU, and BIR registration. Barbers need a valid PRC license. Full steps: how to open a barbershop in the Philippines.
How much does a barbershop owner earn in the Philippines?
An owner who also cuts can earn ₱30,000–₱80,000 per month in a small Metro Manila shop. With 3–4 barbers, owner income often reaches ₱70,000–₱180,000 or more per month.
Opening a barbershop in the Philippines step by step
For DTI/SEC registration, Mayor's Permit, BIR and PRC requirements, see our full guide: How to open a barbershop in the Philippines.