What Is the Average Esthetician Salary?

Uncategorized Aug 29, 2024

 Many estheticians around the country have lucrative, fulfilling careers. Each day, they get to do what they love, improve the lives of their clients, and add beauty to the world. Of course, some of these professionals make more money than others.

So, what kind of salary can you expect to earn, and how can you maximize your bottom line? Today, we’re crunching the numbers to answer all your questions about what the average esthetician salary is in the United States.

How much can you make as a licensed esthetician?

Understanding your earning potential is critical for any successful esthetician. Here’s what you can expect from a career in the industry:

National average salary for licensed estheticians

In 2023, the national average salary for licensed estheticians and skin care specialists was $51,100 or $24.57 per hour. The bottom 10% made $27,600, while those in the 90th percentile took home around $81,320. However, it’s important to remember that these are only averages and don’t necessarily tell the entire story. 

How to boost your earning potential as an esthetician

Expanding your skill set and offering niche services can help you stand out in the skincare industry. It might be tempting for new practitioners to start with treatments that require low overhead, such as waxing. However, investing in cutting-edge technology and mastering the art of something like laser hair removal can give you a major advantage over the competition.

But you don’t just want to jump on the next big trend without doing your research first. Knowing the demand for specific services in your area — as well as the existing practitioners offering them — will help you make a strategic decision. 

Do certain types of estheticians make more?

It’s no secret that some skin care services cost more than others, so it makes sense that certain estheticians earn a higher base salary. Licensed and master estheticians, skin therapists, and hair removal experts are among the top earners.

Although it requires more qualifications, becoming a medical esthetician could give your salary a major boost. As of 2024, the nationwide median pay was $84,576. The entire pay scale ranges from $78,000 to $143,000 each year. These experts often work alongside medical professionals in med spas and specialty centers. 

What are the highest-paying states for an esthetician's salary?

Location is everything, right? Well, when it comes to annual salaries for estheticians, some of these places might surprise you!

Washington

In 2022, the median salary for estheticians in Washington state was $78,360. What’s even more impressive? The industry is expected to grow by 27% between 2020 and 2030. Many of those practicing in Olympia earn well over $100,000 each year. 

New York

New York’s annual mean salary was $72,600 in 2022, with projections for a whopping 78% growth in the coming years. However, in New York City, the median pay rate is $92,000 per year, with annual figures ranging from $69,000 to $125,000. You’ll see similar trends when it comes to other metropolitan areas. In general, estheticians tend to make more in places with a higher cost of living. 

Vermont

Becoming a licensed esthetician in Vermont means an average salary of $63,470 each year, which comes to over $30 per hour. That said, the highest earners take home more than $80,000 annually. As another high-cost-of-living location, these figures add up. 

What factors affect how much you can make as an esthetician?

If you’re considering a move into the esthetics industry, you’ll want to weigh your options carefully. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind: 

Location

You already know that location can make a huge difference in your take-home pay, but you’ll need to think beyond which state pays the most. Big cities typically have more esthetician jobs since they have a broader clientele and greater demand for services.

That said, in some places, the market may already be saturated with practitioners in your field. Market research will be your best friend when determining where to practice your trade and which specialties to focus on

Experience

Your experience level is another determining factor for your earning potential. Clients want to trust that they’re in capable hands, and having a solid foundation in your trade will help them feel more comfortable scheduling an appointment. 

Credentials

Just like your proven experience in the field, you can gain valuable trust by earning and displaying supplemental certifications. Investing in high-quality educational courses can demonstrate that you’re committed to your craft and dedicated to bettering yourself as a professional. 

Specialties

Not every esthetician knows exactly what they want to focus on when starting out in the field. You might take time to grasp the industry in your area, learn what services bring you joy, and suss out which ones are the most lucrative. But once you find your calling, it’s time to pounce! Take the necessary steps to establish yourself as an expert in your field. 

Take your esthetician career to the next level with Bosses in Beauty!

At Bosses in Beauty, we can help you maximize your earning potential and take your business to new heights! We’ve spent years in the industry, and we understand the challenges of running your own company. Bosses In Beauty is here to provide the best education and information to current and future estheticians around the globe.

Whether you’re considering your first training program, you’re fresh out of esthetician school, or you’re making the leap to self-employment, we can help you achieve your goals! Contact us today to learn more!

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Thinking about starting your own esthetics business?

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DownloadĀ The Top 12 Mistakes Estheticians Make When Going SoloĀ so you can be fully prepared to take any challenge starting your beauty biz throws at you!

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