Employment

Barbers held about 52,100 jobs in 2012. Nearly half were self-employed. Barbers work mostly in a barbershop or salon, although some work in a spa, hotel, or resort. Some lease booth space in other people's barbershop. A good number manage salons or open their own shop after several years of experience.

Employment of barbers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2012 through 2022, about as fast as the average for all occupations. The need for barbers will stem primarily from an increasing population, which will lead to greater demand for basic haircare services.

Source:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014-2015 edition, Barbers, Hairdressers, and Cosmetologists.