Opening a barbershop in Ohio can be a rewarding business. The state's regulatory framework is run by the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board (cos.ohio.gov), which sets rules for Barber licenses and salon/shop licenses. Applications are submitted online through the Board (cos.ohio.gov) (Ohio Online Application Licensing System). The owner of a barbershop does not need to be a licensed barber, but every person providing barbering services must be licensed.
This guide walks you through what you need specifically in Ohio: Barber license (1,800 hours over at least 9 months at an approved barber school, then exam—apply via the Board (cos.ohio.gov)), salon/shop license for the barbershop (business name must include the word "Shop", owner must complete a board-approved health, safety, and sanitation course), business registration with the Ohio Secretary of State where applicable, workers\' compensation for employers with one or more employees, realistic costs for Columbus and across the state, where to look for space, equipment, and how to hire licensed barbers while staying compliant with Ohio law.
8 Steps to Open Your Barbershop in Ohio
Research and Business Plan
Ohio's barbershop market varies by region. Columbus and the metro are dense and competitive; Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, and Dayton offer a range of rents and demand. One common issue in Ohio is barbershops opening without a clear target clientele—doing solid research up front helps you avoid that.
What to research in Ohio:
- Local competition: Use Yelp and Google Maps to see how many barbershops are in your target area, what they charge (typical Ohio haircuts range from about $20–$40 in many areas to $45–$70+ in premium Columbus spots), and what makes them stand out.
- Your clientele: Define who you're serving—professionals, families, students, or a specific community.
- Rent and costs: Commercial rent in Columbus and the metro can be moderate to high; Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, and smaller cities are often more affordable. Check LoopNet, Zillow Commercial, or local brokers.
- Peak times: Match your hours to when clients actually come—lunch and evening slots matter in business districts.
Your business plan should include:
- Executive summary: Your concept, target market, and how you'll compete in your Ohio market.
- Market and competition: Local demand, competitor pricing, and your positioning.
- Marketing plan: How you'll get clients—Google, Instagram, and word of mouth.
- Financial projections: Revenue, rent, labor (Ohio uses federal minimum wage), and profitability.
- Operations: Hours, services, and day-to-day running of the shop.
Useful resources for Ohio businesses:
Strategic Location in Ohio
Where you open in Ohio has a big impact on rent, clientele, and competition. Columbus and the metro command higher rent but strong demand; Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, Athens, and smaller cities offer a mix of affordability and traffic.
What makes a good Ohio location:
- Foot traffic and visibility: Storefronts on busy streets or near offices and retail draw more walk-ins.
- Parking: Many Ohio clients drive; easy parking matters.
- Zoning: Confirm with the city or county that the space is allowed for personal care / barbershop use before signing a lease.
- Business name: Your shop name must include the word "Shop" per Ohio Board rules.
Search for commercial space in Ohio:
Major Ohio markets:
Columbus & metro
Columbus, Decatur, Marietta, Sandy Springs, Brookhaven—high rent and competition but strong demand. Large, diverse market.
Savannah, Augusta, Columbus
Coastal and inland cities with more affordable rent and steady local demand.
Akron, Dayton
Midsize cities with a mix of rent levels and competition.
Other areas
Smaller cities and towns across the state offer lower rents and steady local demand.
Legal Requirements and Permits in Ohio
Ohio barbershops are regulated by the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board (cos.ohio.gov). You need a Barber license for every person cutting hair (1,800 hours over at least 9 months at an approved barber school, with at least 280 hours of theory before clinical services, then pass the examination). You need a Salon/Shop license for the barbershop—the business name must include the word "Shop", and the shop owner must complete a board-approved health, safety, and sanitation course. All applications (except salon apprentice) are submitted online through the Board (cos.ohio.gov). The owner does not need to be a licensed barber, but any person providing barbering services must be licensed. You also need business registration with the Ohio Secretary of State where applicable, and workers\' compensation is required for employers with one or more employees.
Barber License (Individual)
Every barber who cuts or shaves hair in your Ohio shop must hold a current Barber License from the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. You must complete a minimum of 1,800 clock hours over at least 9 months at an approved barber school (including at least 280 hours of theory before clinical services). You can also qualify through an apprenticeship (18 months and 3,000 hours). You must be at least 16 years old, have a high school diploma or equivalent, graduate from an approved barber school (or complete apprenticeship), pass the barber examination, and pay the required fees. Apply and renew through the Board (cos.ohio.gov).
Where: Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board – the Board (cos.ohio.gov)
OH – State Cosmetology and Barber Board →the Board (cos.ohio.gov) (apply/renew) →Salon/Shop License (Barbershop)
Your barbershop must have a Salon/Shop license from the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. The business name must include the word "Shop" and cannot mislead about its operations. The shop owner must complete a board-approved health, safety, and sanitation course. Submit the application through the Board (cos.ohio.gov) with the required fees. The license must be displayed within 15 feet of the entrance. Any change in ownership must be registered with the Board within 30 days. Paper applications are generally no longer accepted—use the Board (cos.ohio.gov) for new and renewal applications.
Where: Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board – Barbershop/Salon license (cos.ohio.gov)
OH – State Cosmetology and Barber Board →the Board (cos.ohio.gov) →Business Entity and Secretary of State
If you operate as an LLC or corporation, you must form and register the entity with the Ohio Secretary of State, Corporations Division. File online through eCorp (business.ohiosos.gov). LLC filing fee is $100. You need a registered agent in Ohio. Sole proprietors may use a trade or assumed name; check state and local requirements.
Where: Ohio Secretary of State – Corporations Division
GA – Register an LLC →eCorp (business search) →EIN and Taxes
If you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation, you need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS (free, online). If you sell retail products (e.g. pomade, beard oil), you generally need to register for Ohio sales tax with the Ohio Department of Taxation and collect and remit sales tax.
IRS – EIN →GA Department of Revenue →Workers\' Compensation Insurance
General liability insurance is strongly recommended for barbershops (and often required by landlords). In Ohio, workers\' compensation coverage is required for employers that regularly employ three or more persons (full-time or part-time). Corporate officers and LLC members count as employees; up to five may exempt themselves by filing Form WC-10. Sole proprietors and partners are not automatically counted. Secure coverage through an insurer licensed in Ohio or through self-insurance (with State Board of Workers\' Compensation approval). Get coverage as soon as you have one or more employees.
GA State Board of Workers\' Compensation – Employer info →Estimated Initial Investment in Ohio
Ohio costs vary by region. Columbus and the metro tend to be at the higher end; Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, and smaller cities are more affordable. Below is an approximate breakdown in U.S. dollars for a small to mid-size shop in Ohio.
Note: In Columbus or prime suburbs, the upper end of these ranges is more common. In Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, or smaller cities, you may land in the lower to mid range. Keeping 3–6 months of operating expenses as working capital is a good practice.
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 Ohio Barbershop
The Ohio Board expects clean, well-maintained tools and compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards. Invest in professional chairs, mirrors, lighting, clippers, shears, and razors. Below are ballpark prices in USD and where to shop (national retailers ship to Ohio).
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 Ohio
Every barber in your Ohio shop must have a current Barber License from the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board. You can verify licenses through the Board (cos.ohio.gov). Ohio's minimum wage is the federal rate ($10.45/hour as of 2025). Workers' compensation is required for employers with one or more employees.
What to consider when hiring in Ohio:
- License verification: Confirm the barber's license is current and in good standing with the Board (the Board (cos.ohio.gov)).
- Experience and portfolio: Review their work and, if possible, client references.
- Pay structure: Be clear on hourly vs. commission vs. booth rent, and comply with federal minimum wage and wage-and-hour rules.
- Workers' comp: Get coverage as soon as you have one or more employees.
Resources for hiring and compliance in Ohio:
Management System and Technology
Many barbershops struggle with no-shows and double bookings. Software like BarberíaClub lets you take bookings online 24/7, keep client history, and send reminders—which Ohio clients increasingly expect, especially in Columbus and the metro.
Marketing and Promotion in Ohio
In Ohio, Instagram and Google are essential. Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile so you show up in local search and Maps. Post your work, location, and prices; run occasional promotions to fill the chair. In competitive markets like Columbus or the suburbs, a clear brand and consistent posting help you stand out. Word of mouth still works—deliver great service and ask happy clients for reviews.
- Google Business Profile: Keep your address, hours, and photos updated so you appear in "barbershop near me" searches.
- Instagram: Post cuts, fades, and shop vibes; use local hashtags (e.g. #ColumbusBarber #OhioBarber #CLEBarber) to reach Ohio clients.
- Encourage reviews on Google and Yelp—they matter in crowded Ohio markets.
Tips for Success in Ohio
Frequently Asked Questions – Ohio
Do I need a license to open a barbershop in Ohio?
Yes. You need a Salon/Shop license from the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board for the barbershop (apply through the Board (cos.ohio.gov)), and every barber who cuts or shaves hair must have a current Barber License from the Board. The business name must include the word "Shop" and the owner must complete a board-approved health, safety, and sanitation course. You also need workers' compensation if you have one or more employees.
How many hours of training are required for a Ohio barber license?
You must complete a minimum of 1,800 clock hours over at least 9 months at an approved barber school (including at least 280 hours of theory before clinical services). You can also qualify through an apprenticeship (18 months and 3,000 hours). You must be at least 16, have a high school diploma or equivalent, and pass the barber examination. Apply and renew through the Board (cos.ohio.gov). See the Ohio State Cosmetology and Barber Board for current fees and details.
How much does it cost to open a barbershop in Ohio?
A realistic range is roughly $25,000–$95,000+, depending on size, location, and build-out. Columbus and the metro tend toward the upper end; Cleveland, Cincinnati, Toledo, Akron, and smaller cities can be lower. Rent, security deposit, build-out, equipment, licenses, insurance (including workers' comp if you have one or more employees), and 3–6 months of working capital are the main cost drivers.
What is the first step to open a barbershop in Ohio?
Plan your business and confirm your barbers (or yourself) have or will get a Barber license (1,800 hours at an approved school, then exam). Secure a location that meets local zoning. Form your business entity with the Ohio Secretary of State if using an LLC or corporation. Apply for your Salon/Shop license through the Board (cos.ohio.gov)—business name must include "Shop" and you must complete the board-approved health, safety, and sanitation course. Get workers' compensation as soon as you have one or more employees.