The average 2013 cosmetologist salary in Missouri was $25,882 according to the state’s Department of Economic Development. Those just entering the workforce earned $16,811 on average, while experienced professionals averaged $30,418.
These hair and nail professionals generally take home more money than described here, since their customers typically tip them 10-25%.
Regional Cosmetologist Salaries in Missouri
Cosmetologist salaries in Missouri varied greatly by workforce region. The northeast region of the state had the highest salaries for all experience levels. The average salary there was 23% higher than that for Missouri as a whole:
Job Projections for the Cosmetology Field in Missouri
The field of cosmetology is expected to grow by 5.37% in Missouri between 2012 and 2022. Many of Missouri’s regions will see higher levels of cosmetology job growth. It is predicted to increase at a particularly high rate in the west central region. Growth of 10.87% is expected there. Cosmetology jobs are expected to increase at a high rate in three Missouri regions:
- Northeast – 76%
- Kansas City – 32%
- Central – 79%
Employment Levels of Hair and Nail Professionals in Missouri
In 2012, 11,004 cosmetologists were employed in Missouri. This includes specialists such as hairdressers, hairstylists, and manicurists. Most of these professionals were located in three Missouri regions. Forty-three percent practiced in the St. Louis region, while 17.6% were in the Kansas City region and 13.7% in the central region.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics provides detailed information on cosmetology salaries in Missouri’s key regions as of 2013:
Although cosmetologists are typically skilled at treating both hair and nails, salons generally have different people providing these services. The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides separate salary information for manicurists and pedicurists in Missouri: