Cosmetologist in Washington: Salary, License Requirements, and How to Start
Licensed local services
Washington employs 6,930 cosmetologists, with a statewide median of $59,510 and wide variation by city and experience. Here is the real wage data, the exact Washington licensing picture, and where to train.
What Cosmetologists Earn in Washington (May 2025)
- Washington median pay
- $59,510 (May 2025)
- Starting range (10th percentile)
- $36,830
- Experienced (75th percentile)
- $73,540
- Top earners (90th percentile)
- $99,970
- Employed in Washington
- 6,930
- U.S. median (for comparison)
- $36,110 (May 2024)
Wages vary substantially by metro. Median annual pay for cosmetologists in major Washington markets:
- Bellingham
- $61,820 (160 employed)
- Spokane
- $61,440 (570 employed)
- Seattle–Tacoma
- $59,810 (4,510 employed)
- Olympia
- $49,840 (290 employed)
- Tri-Cities
- $49,640 (250 employed)
What That Pay Is Worth in Washington
Prices in Washington run about 7% above the national average (cost-of-living index 107.0 vs a U.S. baseline of 100, 2024), so the $59,510 median is worth closer to $55,617 once higher local prices are factored in.
Job Outlook in Washington (2024–2034)
Washington is projected to grow cosmetologists employment +7.3%, faster than the +5.6% projected nationally. The state expects about 2,870 openings a year, counting both growth and workers who retire or move on.
Washington License and Certification Requirements
Licensed Cosmetologist — regulated by the Washington State Department of Licensing — Cosmetology Program.
- Complete 1,600 hours of cosmetology training at a WA DOL-approved cosmetology school, covering hair cutting and coloring, chemical services, skin care, nail care, and Washington cosmetology law.
- Pass the WA DOL written and practical state board examinations for cosmetology.
- Apply to the WA Department of Licensing. Renew every two years with continuing education.
Official requirements: Washington State Department of Licensing — Cosmetology Program →
Training in Washington
Seattle and the Puget Sound metro have a vibrant salon market — Aveda concept salons, Gene Juarez, and hundreds of independent salons compete for licensed cosmetologists. Commission and booth rent structures are both common. Tipping culture in Seattle makes total compensation stronger than base wages suggest.
Real training providers and registered apprenticeships in Washington include:
- Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Seattle — Certificate
- Aveda Institute Portland-Vancouver Campus — Certificate
- Bates Technical College — Certificate / Associate
- Bellingham Technical College — Associate
Is This the Right Move for You?
Best for: People who are creative, social, and want a licensed practice with real self-employment potential once they build a clientele.
Think twice if: Standing all day, chemical exposure, irregular booth-rental income, and state-mandated training hours of 1,000–1,600 sound like barriers.
Why it's resilient: Hair styling and cosmetology services are built on physical technique and personal client relationships — inherently local and human.
First Steps
Check your state's required hours, compare licensed school costs, and ask about job placement rates before enrolling.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do cosmetologists make in Washington?
The median wage for cosmetologists in Washington is $59,510 per year (May 2025, BLS). Entry-level pay (10th percentile) starts around $36,830, and top earners (90th percentile) make about $99,970. Pay varies by metro and years of experience.
What license or certification do you need to become a Cosmetologist in Washington?
Licensed Cosmetologist, overseen by the Washington State Department of Licensing — Cosmetology Program. Complete 1,600 hours of cosmetology training at a WA DOL-approved cosmetology school, covering hair cutting and coloring, chemical services, skin care, nail care, and Washington cosmetology law.
Is being a Cosmetologist a good career in Washington?
Hair styling and cosmetology services are built on physical technique and personal client relationships — inherently local and human.
Which Washington metros pay cosmetologists the most?
Among Washington metro areas, Bellingham leads at $61,820, followed by Spokane ($61,440), Seattle–Tacoma ($59,810). Local pay tracks regional demand and cost of living, so the highest-paying metro isn't always the best net move.
Where can I train to become a Cosmetologist in Washington?
Real Washington options include Aveda Arts & Sciences Institute Seattle, Aveda Institute Portland-Vancouver Campus, Bates Technical College. Most cosmetologists start with an accredited program, then earn the credential the state or employer requires.
Is Cosmetologist a growing career in Washington?
Washington projects cosmetologists employment to change +7.3% from 2024 to 2034, with about 2,870 openings a year — a growing field in the state.
Sources and Verification
Wage data: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025), Washington statewide and metro estimates for SOC 39-5012. Licensing summary compiled from the Washington State Department of Licensing — Cosmetology Program (2026-06-11). Requirements change — always confirm current rules with the board and verify program costs and outcomes before enrolling.
BLS Occupational Outlook · O*NET Washington wages · Washington licensing/certification source
Employment projections: Projections Central / BLS Employment Projections (2024–2034); Cost of living: BEA Regional Price Parities.
Pay percentiles describe current workers, not entry-level offers; training costs and local demand vary, so verify locally before committing money or quitting a job.