Opening a barbershop in Massachusetts can be a solid move. The Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering (Division of Occupational Licensure) runs barber and barbershop licensing. You don’t have to be a licensed barber to own a shop, but everyone who cuts or shaves hair must be licensed. Applications go through mass.gov (ePLACE).
This guide covers what you need in Massachusetts: barber license (1,000 hours over at least 6 months at an approved school, or 600 school + 400 shop hours apprenticeship, then exam), a barbershop license for the establishment (apply through mass.gov/ePLACE—floor plan, CORI, business certificate, inspections), business registration, workers’ comp if you have employees, what it typically costs in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and elsewhere, where to look for space, and how to stay compliant.
8 Steps to Open Your Barbershop in Massachusetts
Research and Business Plan
The barbershop market in Massachusetts isn’t the same in Boston as in Worcester or Springfield. Greater Boston is dense and competitive; Central and Western MA tend to have lower rent and a steadier local crowd. Shops that open without a clear idea of who they’re serving often struggle—so do the research first.
What to look at in Massachusetts:
- Competition: Use Google Maps and Yelp to see how many barbershops are nearby, what they charge (in MA you’ll see everything from about $25–$40 in many areas to $50–$75+ in Boston and Cambridge), and what they’re known for.
- Who you’re serving: Decide whether you’re going after professionals, students, families, or a specific neighborhood—it shapes your pricing and vibe.
- Rent and build-out: Boston and Cambridge usually mean higher commercial rent; Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, and beyond are often cheaper. Check LoopNet, Zillow Commercial, or a local broker.
- When people come in: Lunch and after work are big near offices; weekends matter in family areas. Set your hours accordingly.
Your business plan should cover:
- Summary: Your concept, who you’re targeting, and how you’ll stand out in your MA market.
- Market and competition: Local demand, what others charge, and where you fit.
- Marketing: How you’ll get clients—Google, Instagram, and word of mouth.
- Numbers: Revenue, rent, labor (MA has a $15 minimum wage), and when you expect to break even.
- Day-to-day: Hours, services, and how the shop will run.
Helpful links for Massachusetts businesses:
Strategic Location in Massachusetts
Location in Massachusetts drives rent, who walks in, and how much competition you face. Boston and Cambridge usually mean higher rent and more shops; Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, and smaller towns often have lower rent and loyal local traffic.
What to look for in a Massachusetts location:
- Visibility and foot traffic: A storefront on a busy street or near offices and retail helps with walk-ins.
- Parking: A lot of MA clients drive; easy parking can make or break a spot.
- Zoning: Confirm with the city or town that the space is allowed for personal care or barbershop use before you sign.
Where to look for space:
Major Massachusetts markets:
Boston & Cambridge
Boston, Cambridge, Somerville—strong demand, higher rent, lots of competition. Large, diverse market.
Worcester
Central MA—more affordable rent, steady local demand.
Springfield, Lowell
Western and northern MA—mix of rent levels and traffic.
Other areas
Smaller towns across MA with lower rents and loyal clientele.
Legal Requirements and Permits in Massachusetts
Barbershops in Massachusetts are regulated by the Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering (Division of Occupational Licensure). Everyone cutting or shaving hair needs a barber license (1,000 hours over at least 6 months at an approved school, or 600 school + 400 shop hours apprenticeship, then exam). The shop needs a barbershop license—apply through mass.gov (ePLACE): floor plan, CORI, business certificate, plumbing/electrical inspections, and fee ($130). The owner doesn’t have to be licensed, but everyone performing barbering must be. You also need business registration and workers’ compensation if you have employees.
Barber License (Individual)
Everyone cutting or shaving hair in your MA shop must hold a current barber license from the Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering. You need 1,000 hours over at least 6 months at an approved barber school (or 600 school + 400 shop hours through apprenticeship). Pass the required exam and pay the fees. Apply and renew through mass.gov (ePLACE). Check the Board page for current requirements.
Where: Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering – mass.gov
MA Board – Cosmetology and Barbering →Barbershop License (Establishment)
Your barbershop must have a barbershop license from the Board. Submit the application through ePLACE (mass.gov): signed application, 8.5" x 11" floor plan (rooms, equipment, chairs, doors, non-shampoo sink), photos, CORI form, business certificate from your city or town, plumbing/electrical inspection forms (or “No Work Required” if applicable), business formation documents, and price list (gender pricing is prohibited). Fee $130 (non-refundable). The license is valid only for the location and owner named; notify the Board at least 30 days before any relocation or change of ownership.
Where: mass.gov – Apply for a barbershop license
MA – Apply for barbershop license →Business Entity
If you run as an LLC or corporation, form and register with the Massachusetts Secretary of State. You’ll need a registered agent in Massachusetts. Sole proprietors can use a trade name; check state and local rules. You’ll need a business certificate from your city or town for the barbershop license.
Where: MA Secretary of State
MA Secretary of State – Corporations →EIN and Taxes
If you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation, get an EIN from the IRS (free, online). If you sell retail (e.g. pomade, beard oil), register for Massachusetts sales tax with the MA Department of Revenue and collect and remit tax.
IRS – EIN →MA DOR →Workers’ Compensation Insurance
General liability is a good idea (and many landlords require it). In Massachusetts, workers’ compensation is required for employers with employees. Get coverage as soon as you hire.
MA – Workers’ compensation →Estimated Initial Investment in Massachusetts
What you’ll spend in MA depends on where you open. Boston and Cambridge usually push costs up; Worcester, Springfield, Lowell, and smaller cities tend to be more affordable. Below is a rough breakdown in U.S. dollars for a small to mid-size shop in Massachusetts.
Note: In Boston or Cambridge, expect the upper end more often. In Worcester, Springfield, or smaller cities, you’ll often land in the lower to mid range. Plan for 3–6 months of operating expenses as working capital.
Manage Your Barbershop with Technology
From day one, use management software like BarberíaClub to:
- Organise appointments online 24/7
- Manage clients and their history
- Send automatic reminders
- Reduce no-shows and stay organised
- Save time on admin
Equipment You Need for Your Massachusetts Barbershop
The Board expects clean, well-maintained tools and proper sanitation. Invest in solid chairs, mirrors, lighting, clippers, shears, and razors. Below are ballpark prices in USD; national retailers ship to Massachusetts.
Professional Barber Chairs
You need at least one chair per barber. Hydraulic, durable chairs are the backbone of the shop.
Estimated price: $300 – $3,500 per chair
Entry-level from around $300; premium brands $2,000+.
Mirrors and Lighting
Large mirrors and good lighting are required for quality work and a professional setup.
Estimated price: $200 – $2,000+ (mirrors and lights combined)
Clippers, Shears, and Razors
Each barber needs professional clippers (e.g. Wahl, Andis, Oster), quality shears, and razors. Proper sterilization between clients is required.
Estimated price: $150 – $600+ per clipper; $80 – $500+ per shear set; razors and blades extra
Products and Disinfection
Stock pomades, gels, beard oil, aftershave, and other retail products if you sell them (remember GA sales tax registration). Keep EPA-approved disinfectants and follow sterilization rules.
Estimated price: $1,000 – $5,000 initial product and disinfection supply
Staff Hiring in Massachusetts
Every barber in your MA shop must have a current barber license from the Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering. You can verify through the Board (mass.gov). Massachusetts’s minimum wage is $15/hour (2024–2025; check current rate). Workers’ compensation is required if you have employees.
When hiring in Massachusetts:
- License: Confirm the license is current and in good standing with the Board.
- Experience: Review their work and, if you can, client references.
- Pay: Be clear on hourly vs. commission vs. booth rent, and follow MA minimum wage and wage-hour rules.
- Workers’ comp: Get coverage as soon as you have employees.
Useful links:
Management System and Technology
No-shows and double bookings hurt. BarberíaClub lets you take bookings online 24/7, keep client history, and send reminders—something clients in Boston, Worcester, and Springfield expect.
Marketing and Promotion in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, Google and Instagram drive a lot of new clients. Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile so you show up in local search and Maps. Post your work, location, and prices; run occasional promos to fill the chair. In busy areas like Boston or Cambridge, a clear brand and steady posts help you get noticed. Word of mouth still works—give great service and ask for reviews.
- Google Business Profile: Keep address, hours, and photos updated so you show up for “barbershop near me.”
- Instagram: Post cuts, fades, and shop vibes; use local hashtags (e.g. #BostonBarber #WorcesterBarber #MABarber) to reach MA clients.
- Reviews on Google and Yelp matter, especially in crowded MA markets.
Tips for Success in Massachusetts
Frequently Asked Questions – Massachusetts
Do I need a license to open a barbershop in Massachusetts?
Yes. You need a barbershop license from the Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering for the establishment (apply through mass.gov/ePLACE—floor plan, CORI, business certificate, inspections, fee $130), and every person who cuts or shaves hair must have a current barber license from the Board. You also need workers’ compensation if you have employees.
How many hours of training are required for a barber license in Massachusetts?
You need 1,000 hours over at least 6 months at an approved barber school (or 600 school + 400 shop hours through apprenticeship). Pass the required exam and pay the fees. Apply and renew through mass.gov (ePLACE). Check the Board of Registration of Cosmetology and Barbering for current fees and details.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Massachusetts?
A typical range is $28,000–$100,000+, depending on size, location, and build-out. Boston and Cambridge tend toward the upper end; Worcester, Springfield, and smaller cities are often lower. Rent, deposit, build-out, equipment, licenses, insurance, and 3–6 months of working capital are the main costs.
What is the first step to open a barbershop in Massachusetts?
Plan your business and make sure you (or your barbers) have or will get a barber license (1,000 hours at an approved school, then exam). Find a location that meets local zoning. Form your business with the MA Secretary of State if you’re using an LLC or corporation. Get a business certificate from your city or town and apply for your barbershop license through mass.gov (ePLACE). Get workers’ comp as soon as you have employees.