Cosmetologist in Amarillo, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Amarillo Stands

As a cosmetologist in Amarillo, you're entering a market with a distinct cost-of-living advantage, but with a salary that sits just below the national average. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local wage data, the median salary for cosmetologists in the Amarillo metro area is $37,310 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $17.94. This is slightly under the national median of $38,370, but the difference is more than made up for by Amarillo's affordability. With a metro population of 203,042, the local market is stable but not saturated, supporting 406 jobs in the field. The 10-year job growth projection is 8%, indicating steady demand driven by population growth and a consistent need for personal care services.

Breaking down salaries by experience level helps set realistic expectations for your career trajectory:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Key Factors in Amarillo
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $32,000	Often starts in chain salons or assisting senior stylists. Commission structure is common.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$34,000 - $41,000	Building a loyal clientele is key. Specializing can push you to the upper end.
Senior (8-15 years)	$40,000 - $48,000	Established reputation, potential for salon management or booth rental.
Expert/Salon Owner (15+ years)	$48,000+	Top earners own their business, teach, or offer high-end, niche services.

When compared to other Texas cities, Amarillo's salary is modest but its purchasing power is significant. Here’s how it stacks up:

Texas City	Median Annual Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Relative Affordability
Amarillo	$37,310	90.8	High
Dallas-Fort Worth	$41,200	103.9	Moderate
Houston	$39,800	96.5	Moderate
San Antonio	$36,500	87.4	High
Lubbock	$35,800	88.2	High

Data sourced from BLS (OCC 39-5012) and Sperling's Best Places.

Insider Tip: The real money in Amarillo isn't just in the base salary; it's in the tips and commission. At popular salons in the Wolflin or Southwest Amarillo areas, a skilled stylist can add another $5,000 - $10,000 annually in untaxed cash tips and bonuses, especially during holiday and wedding seasons.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your budget. For a single cosmetologist earning the median salary of $37,310, the take-home pay after federal, state (Texas has no state income tax), and FICA taxes is approximately $2,950 per month. Amarillo's average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $879 per month, and the city's overall Cost of Living Index is 90.8 (US average = 100), meaning your dollars stretch further here.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Income	$3,109	$37,310 / 12 months
Taxes & Deductions	~$159	FICA (7.65%) and federal withholding
Net Take-Home	$2,950	After taxes
Rent (1BR Avg)	$879	Can vary from $750 in older areas to $1,100 in new builds
Utilities	$200	Electricity, water, internet (Amarillo's climate impacts A/C)
Groceries	$300	Efficient shopping is key; local markets like United Supermarkets help
Transportation	$250	Car is essential; gas is cheaper than national average
Insurance (Health/Car)	$300	Varies widely; essential for self-employed
Supplies/Tools	$100	Ongoing cost for cosmetologists
Discretionary	$921	Everything else (entertainment, savings, debt)

Can you afford to buy a home? Absolutely. The median home price in Amarillo is around $220,000. With a $37,310 salary, a 20% down payment ($44,000) is a significant hurdle, but many first-time homebuyer programs (like the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs programs) are available. A more realistic path is to build a 10% down payment ($22,000) over 3-5 years while renting. Your monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) on a $220,000 home with 10% down could be around $1,300-$1,400, which is manageable if you have a partner or roommates, or if you increase your income through commission and clientele building.

Insider Tip: Many cosmetologists in Amarillo live in the The Colonies or Puckett areas, which offer newer apartments at competitive prices and a short commute to major salon employers. Consider splitting a two-bedroom with a roommate to keep rent under $600, freeing up $300+ monthly for savings or debt repayment.

Where the Jobs Are: Amarillo's Major Employers

Amarillo's beauty industry is anchored by a mix of national chains, upscale salons, and med-spa facilities. Hiring is consistent, with turnover most common at entry-level chains. Here are the key players:

1. Regis Salons (Multiple Locations): A major employer with shops in the Southwest Amarillo shopping centers and near Westgate Mall. They offer structured training, benefits for full-time staff, and a clear path from assistant to stylist. Hiring trends show a steady need for licensed cosmetologists, especially during summer.
2. The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) Amarillo: While primarily a school, TSPA is a huge employer of instructors and salon services staff. They often hire recent graduates as front desk or assistants. It’s a networking hub for the entire local industry.
3. Bristol Hair & Nail Salon: A long-standing, upscale salon in the Wolflin neighborhood. Known for higher-end services and a loyal clientele, they prefer stylists with 3+ years of experience. Hiring is selective but offers higher commission splits (often 60/40) and a premium atmosphere.
4. Sola Salon Studios: Located in Canyon (just south of Amarillo), this franchise model is popular. Stylists rent their own private studio, which is ideal for independent cosmetologists building their own brand. It's a growing trend and a great option for those who prefer autonomy.
5. Med-Spas (e.g., The Skin Clinic, Amarillo Med Spa): For cosmetologists with advanced training in aesthetics (facials, chemical peels, microdermabrasion), med-spas offer higher wages, often $40,000+. These employers are concentrated near the Medical Park area and require additional certifications.
6. Great Clips & Supercuts: National chains with high turnover, making them good places for an entry-level job. Locations are ubiquitous, from Soncy Road to Eastern Amarillo. They provide consistent hours and clientele, perfect for building speed and technique.
7. Private Studios (e.g., in The Colonies): Many cosmetologists work as independent contractors in private studios or suites. This is a major trend. Finding a studio for rent in a busy area like The Colonies or Canyon can be the key to significantly higher earnings.

Insider Tip: The best way to find a job is through local Facebook groups like "Amarillo Beauty Professionals" or "Panhandle Cosmetology Network." Many positions never hit public job boards. Also, walk-in applications at salons in Wolflin and Southwest Amarillo on a Tuesday or Wednesday afternoon (their slow days) can yield better results.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has clear, regulated pathways to licensure through the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Here’s the breakdown:

• Requirements:
  1. Education: Complete a 1,000-hour cosmetology program at a TDLR-approved school. The closest major school is The Salon Professional Academy Amarillo (located on S. Georgia St.).
  2. Exam: Pass both the written (theory) and practical exams administered by the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC).
  3. Application: Submit an application to the TDLR with a fee of $50 and proof of graduation.
• Costs:
  • Tuition: Ranges from $10,000 - $18,000 depending on the school. TSPA Amarillo's program is typically around $15,000-$16,000.
  • Kit & Supplies: $1,000 - $2,000 (included in some tuition packages).
  • Exam Fees: $125 for the combined NIC exams.
  • Total Estimated Cost: $12,000 - $20,000. Financial aid and scholarships are available through the school.
• Timeline:
  • Full-Time Student: 9-10 months to complete the 1,000-hour requirement.
  • Part-Time/Evening Programs: 15-18 months.
  • Post-Graduation: Allow 4-8 weeks for exam scheduling, processing, and receiving your license.

Insider Tip: Texas requires 8 hours of continuing education (CE) every 2 years for license renewal. The Texas Cosmetology Education (TCE) offers online courses that are affordable and accepted. Factor this $100-$150 cost into your ongoing budget.

Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Commuting in Amarillo is easy, but living near work can save time and money. Here are top picks:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (1BR)	Best For
The Colonies	Upscale, walkable, trendy. 10-15 min drive to most employers.	$950 - $1,200	Young professionals, networking, newer amenities.
Wolflin	Established, quiet, central. 10 min to downtown, 15 min to SW.	$800 - $1,000	Classic charm, low traffic, proximity to upscale salons.
Southwest Amarillo	Commercial hub (malls, chains). 5-10 min to Regis, Great Clips.	$850 - $1,100	Chains, retail, easy access to I-27 for travel.
Canyon	Suburban, affordable, family-friendly. 20-25 min commute to Amarillo.	$750 - $950	Lower rent, Sola Salon Studios, quieter lifestyle.
Puckett	Up-and-coming, mixed-income. 15 min to most areas.	$750 - $900	Affordable, diverse community, potential for growth.

Insider Tip: If you're considering booth rental at Sola Salon Studios in Canyon, living in Canyon itself makes sense to avoid the commute. The lower rent can offset the studio rental cost, making it a financially sound move for independent stylists.

The Long Game: Career Growth

With an 8% job growth over 10 years, Amarillo offers stability but requires proactive growth. Here’s how to advance:

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Bridal & Event Styling: Can add $5,000-$10,000 annually in Amarillo's competitive wedding market (many couples from the Texas Panhandle and surrounding areas book here).
  • Aesthetics (Facials, Lashes): Requires additional certification ($1,000-$3,000), but can boost hourly rate by $5-$10.
  • Multicultural Hair: Stylists skilled in braiding, extensions, and natural hair can command higher rates and build a diverse clientele.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Commission Stylist: Move from hourly to 50-60% commission at a salon like Bristol.
  2. Booth Renter/Suite Owner: Rent a station at Sola or a private studio. Earnings potential jumps to $45,000+ but requires business savvy.
  3. Salon Manager: Oversee operations at a chain or upscale salon. Salary: $40,000 - $50,000.
  4. Educator/Instructor: Teach at TSPA Amarillo. Salary: $38,000 - $45,000 with benefits.
  5. Salon Owner: Open your own shop. Highest risk, highest reward. Amarillo has room for niche concepts (e.g., a vegan hair salon or a dedicated male grooming bar).
• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% growth will be driven by population growth and an aging population seeking more hair and skin services. The biggest opportunities will be in med-spa services and specialized styling. The cosmetologist who invests in continuous education and builds a strong personal brand (through Instagram, TikTok) will outpace the median salary.

The Verdict: Is Amarillo Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living (Index 90.8) makes $37,310 go far.	Salaries are below national average ($37,310 vs. $38,370).
Stable job market with 406 jobs and 8% growth.	Market is smaller; fewer high-profile fashion events.
Short commutes and easy access to employers.	Limited high-end, luxury salon options compared to DFW.
Strong community of cosmetologists; networking is personal.	Requires a car; public transit is limited.
Path to homeownership is realistic.	Continuing education can be an added cost if not planned for.

Final Recommendation: Amarillo is an excellent choice for a cosmetologist who values financial stability and a lower-stress lifestyle. It's ideal for:

• New grads looking to build a clientele in a supportive market.
• Mid-career stylists seeking a better work-life balance and a chance to buy a home.
• Entrepreneurs who want to own a salon in a less saturated market.

If you're seeking the fast-paced, high-fashion scene of Dallas or Austin, Amarillo may feel limiting. But if you want to build a solid career, earn a respectable income, and enjoy a comfortable life, Amarillo is a smart, data-driven move.

FAQs

1. Can I make a good living as a cosmetologist in Amarillo?
Yes, especially if you build a clientele and supplement your income with tips and commission. While the median is $37,310, top stylists in upscale salons or with their own studios can earn $45,000 - $60,000+. The low cost of living makes a median salary feel more substantial here.

2. Is the market oversaturated?
No. With 406 jobs for a metro area of 203,000, the market is healthy but not crowded. The key is specialization. Generalists may struggle, but those with skills in bridal, extensions, or aesthetics will find ample demand.

3. What's the best way to get my first job?
Complete your education at TSPA Amarillo, then use their job placement assistance. Simultaneously, join local Facebook groups and network with stylists at salons in Wolflin or The Colonies. Be prepared to start as an assistant to gain experience.

4. Do I need to specialize to succeed?
It's highly recommended. While you can build a general clientele, specializing in areas like bridal styling, aesthetics, or multicultural hair allows you to charge premium rates and attract a dedicated following. Additional certifications cost $500-$3,000 but pay off quickly.

5. How does the licensing renewal work in Texas?
You must renew your license every 2 years. The fee is $60. You must complete 8 hours of approved continuing education (CE), which can be done online. Keep records of your CE certificates, as the TDLR can audit you.