Cosmetologist in Broomfield, CO

As a career analyst who’s lived in the Front Range for years, I can tell you that Broomfield offers a unique blend of suburban comfort and economic opportunity for cosmetologists. It’s not the bustling salon scene of downtown Denver, nor the high-end resort vibe of Vail, but it has its own distinct market. This guide is built on hard data from the BLS, Colorado State Board of Cosmetology, and local market analysis. Let’s break down what a career in cosmetology actually looks like here, from the paycheck to the neighborhoods.

The Salary Picture: Where Broomfield Stands

First, let’s get straight to the numbers. The median salary for Cosmetologists in the Broomfield metro area is $39,003/year. This breaks down to an hourly rate of $18.75/hour. It’s crucial to understand this is a median, meaning half of the workers earn more, and half earn less. The national average for this profession sits at $38,370/year, meaning Broomfield pays slightly above the national norm, but not by a significant margin. The metro area supports about 153 jobs in the field, with a 10-year job growth projection of 8%. This growth is steady, not explosive, reflecting a stable but competitive local market.

To understand your potential earnings, it’s essential to see how experience shifts the scale in this region.

Experience Level	Broomfield Area (Estimated Annual)	National Benchmark (BLS)
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$32,000 - $36,000	$30,000 - $35,000
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$38,000 - $45,000	$37,000 - $44,000
Senior/Expert (8+ years)	$46,000 - $55,000+	$45,000 - $60,000+

Note: Estimates based on local market trends and BLS percentiles. The median $39,003 falls squarely in the mid-career range.

How does Broomfield compare to other Colorado cities?

• Denver: Typically offers higher median salaries ($42,000+) but with a much higher cost of living and fiercer competition.
• Colorado Springs: Salaries are often closer to the national average, with a slightly lower cost of living than Broomfield.
• Fort Collins: Similar to Broomfield in terms of suburban vibe, with salaries that are competitive but not significantly higher.
• Frisco/Breckenridge (Summit County): Potential for much higher earnings (often $50,000+) due to the luxury resort and tourism market, but with extreme housing costs and seasonal fluctuations.

Insider Tip: The $18.75/hour base is common for booth renters or commission-based stylists. The top earners in Broomfield aren’t just doing cuts and color; they’re masters of extensions, specialized skincare (like microblading or lash extensions), or building a dedicated clientele that follows them from salon to salon.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be blunt: the median salary in Broomfield has a tight squeeze when you factor in the local cost of living. The city’s Cost of Living Index is 105.5 (U.S. average is 100), meaning it’s about 5.5% more expensive than the national average. The biggest line item? Rent. The average 1BR rent is $1,835/month.

Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a Cosmetologist earning the median $39,003:

Category	Monthly Cost (Est.)	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$3,250	$39,003 / 12
Federal & State Taxes	~$550	(Estimated, ~17% effective rate)
Take-Home Pay	~$2,700
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,835	68% of take-home pay
Utilities	$150	Electricity, gas, internet
Car Insurance/Gas	$250	Essential in car-dependent Broomfield
Groceries	$300
Health Insurance	$200	If not covered by employer
Other (Phone, Misc.)	$150
Total Expenses	$2,885
Monthly Deficit	-$185	Before any savings, debt, or leisure

Can they afford to buy a home? On a $39,003 salary, it’s an extreme challenge. The median home price in Broomfield is approximately $550,000. A 20% down payment is $110,000, and a monthly mortgage (at 7%) would be over $2,900—more than the median take-home pay. Homeownership is generally feasible only for dual-income households or cosmetologists who significantly out-earn the median, perhaps through salon ownership or a high-end private practice.

Insider Tip: Many cosmetologists in Broomfield live with roommates or partners to split the $1,835 rent. Others choose older apartment complexes in areas like Arvada or Westminster for slightly lower rates, accepting a longer commute to Broomfield’s salon hubs.

Where the Jobs Are: Broomfield's Major Employers

Broomfield’s job market for cosmetologists is a mix of high-end national chains, local boutiques, and medical-adjacent opportunities. Here are the key players:

1. The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) Denver: While technically in nearby Westminster, this is a major employer for stylists who also want to teach. It’s a pathway to a steady salary outside of client commissions.
2. European Wax Center: Multiple locations in the Broomfield/Westminster area. They hire licensed estheticians and cosmetologists for waxing services. Hiring is often steady due to their franchise model.
3. Ulta Beauty: The Ulta at 144th Ave & Lamar St is a major employer. They need stylists for their salon services and knowledgeable staff for the retail floor. It’s a great place to build a client base with a built-in product discount.
4. Medical Spas (e.g., The Aesthetic Institute): Broomfield has a growing number of medical spas that require licensed cosmetologists or estheticians for services like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments. These jobs often pay higher than traditional salons but may require additional certifications.
5. High-End Salons (e.g., Hair by Design, Salon 5B): These are the local boutique salons in the Interlocken and Broomfield professional areas. They cater to the corporate workforce from the tech and telecom companies nearby (like Comcast, Oracle). Hiring is often based on reputation and portfolio.
6. The Shops at FlatIron (in Boulder, but a key draw): While not in Broomfield, this luxury mall is a 15-minute drive and hosts salons like Drybar and Lash & Beauty. Many Broomfield-based stylists commute here for higher-end clientele and commission structures.

Hiring Trends: There is consistent demand for stylists who are proficient in balayage and blonding techniques. The shift toward service-add-ons (e.g., scalp treatments, glosses) is strong, allowing cosmetologists to increase their average ticket. The most stable jobs are with the national chains (Ulta, European Wax), while the highest earning potential is in commission-based boutique salons or medical spas.

Getting Licensed in CO

Colorado’s licensing is straightforward but requires attention to detail. The Colorado State Board of Cosmetology governs all regulations.

• Requirements: You must complete a minimum of 1,600 hours at a state-approved cosmetology school. For a license as an Esthetician (skin care), it’s 600 hours; for Nail Technology, it’s 350 hours. You must pass both a written and practical exam from the National Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC).
• Costs:
  • Tuition: $15,000 - $25,000 for a full cosmetology program (varies by school).
  • Exams & Licensing: Approximately $150 for the state application and $100 for the NIC exams.
  • Total Upfront Cost: Expect to spend a minimum of $15,250 to get licensed.
• Timeline: A full-time cosmetology program (1,600 hours) typically takes 12-15 months to complete. Part-time programs can take 18-24 months.

For out-of-state licensees: Colorado does not have reciprocity. You must apply for licensure by examination. If you’re already licensed in another state, you’ll need to provide proof of your current license and may be required to take Colorado’s written exam if your home state’s exam isn’t equivalent. Always check the Colorado State Board of Cosmetology website for the most current forms.

Insider Tip: Before enrolling, confirm the school’s job placement rate and its relationships with local salons. Broomfield’s Aveda Institute (located in Denver) is highly respected and has strong connections to area salons.

Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Your neighborhood choice in Broomfield will define your commute, lifestyle, and budget. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Central Broomfield (Near 120th & Huron):

   • Commute: 5-15 minutes to most major employers (Ulta, European Wax, local salons).
   • Lifestyle: Classic suburbia. Good access to parks, the Broomfield Event Center, and FlatIron Crossing Mall.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,700 - $1,900 for a 1BR. Older apartments can be found slightly below the median.
   • Best For: Those who want the shortest commute and a convenient, family-friendly atmosphere.

2. Interlocken / Tech Center:

   • Commute: 5-10 minutes to high-end salons and medical spas. Close to US-36 for access to Denver or Boulder.
   • Lifestyle: More corporate and professional. Fewer restaurants, more business parks. Close to Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,900 - $2,100 for a 1BR. Newer, luxury apartments dominate.
   • Best For: Stylists targeting corporate clients or working in medical spas. Higher rent requires a higher income.

3. Bradburn Village (North Broomfield):

   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to central Broomfield employers. Easy access to I-76 and I-25.
   • Lifestyle: A planned community with a town center, grocery stores, and a quieter vibe. Good for young professionals and couples.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,650 - $1,850 for a 1BR.
   • Best For: Those seeking a balance between suburbia and a bit more neighborhood character.

4. Westminster (Adjacent City):

   • Commute: 10-25 minutes depending on traffic. Direct access to US-36 and I-25.
   • Lifestyle: More diverse housing options (townhomes, single-family). The Westminster Promenade offers dining and entertainment.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,750 for a 1BR. More likely to find a slightly older unit at a better price.
   • Best For: The budget-conscious who don’t mind a slightly longer commute for more affordable housing.

5. Arvada (Adjacent City, Old Town):

   • Commute: 20-30 minutes. Traffic on Wadsworth can be challenging during rush hour.
   • Lifestyle: Historic charm in Old Town Arvada. Vibrant main street with local boutiques, breweries, and restaurants.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,750 - $2,000 for a 1BR in a renovated building.
   • Best For: Cosmetologists who value a unique, walkable neighborhood vibe and are willing to commute for work.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth of 8% suggests a stable, not booming, market. To outpace the median salary, you need a specialty.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Master Colorist (Blonding/Balayage): Can command an $8,000 - $15,000 premium over the median.
  • Certified Lash Artist: Additional certification can boost hourly rates by $5-$10.
  • Makeup Artistry for Events/Weddings: Highly seasonal but can add $5,000 - $10,000 in annual income.
  • Esthetician with Laser Certification: In medical spas, this can push earnings into the $50,000 - $65,000 range.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Booth Rent/Private Suite: Move from a 40% commission to keeping 100% of your service fee (minus booth rent, typically $150-$300/week). This is the most common path to six-figure earnings for top stylists.
  2. Salon Management: A shift to a full-time salary role (often $45,000 - $60,000) with bonuses.
  3. Education/Brand Ambassador: Become an educator for a line like Redken or Aveda, traveling and teaching. This requires a strong portfolio and reputation.
  4. Salon Ownership: The ultimate goal. Opening a small, boutique salon in Broomfield or Westminster. High risk, high reward. Requires a business loan, solid business plan, and a built-in clientele.

10-Year Outlook: The market will remain competitive. The cosmetologists who thrive will be those who build a personal brand, leverage social media (Instagram is non-negotiable), and diversify their skills. The influx of new residents to the Front Range will keep demand steady, but the key will be retaining high-value clients in a market with a $39,003 median.

The Verdict: Is Broomfield Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: 153 jobs and 8% growth offer security.	Tight Budget: The median $39,003 salary struggles against $1,835 average rent.
Diverse Employers: Mix of chains, boutiques, and medical spas.	Commute-Dependent: Car is essential; public transit is limited.
Proximity to Major Markets: Easy access to Denver/Boulder for higher-end opportunities.	Competitive: Good stylists are present; building a client base takes time.
Quality of Life: Great schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.	Limited Nightlife: Very quiet after 9 PM; not the place for a vibrant social scene.
Outdoor Access: Minutes from hiking trails at Rocky Flats or Boulder.	High Cost of Living Relative to Salary: The math is challenging for singles.

Final Recommendation: Broomfield is a strong fit for a cosmetologist who is a mid-career professional with a partner or roommate, or for someone willing to start in a chain salon (like Ulta) to build a clientele before moving to a higher-commission boutique. It’s less ideal for a brand-new graduate on a single income unless they are exceptionally frugal. If you’re ambitious, Broomfield is an excellent launchpad to the wider Denver metro market while offering a quieter home base. If your primary goal is maximum income potential in the shortest time, the resort towns or downtown Denver might be better, but at a significant lifestyle and cost-of-living trade-off.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a booth rental in Broomfield?
A: It’s moderate. Booth rentals are more common in larger, established salons and in adjacent cities like Westminster. Competition exists, and top salons often look for stylists with a proven client list. Networking at local cosmetology schools and joining Colorado beauty professional groups on Facebook is key.

Q: What’s the demand for estheticians versus cosmetologists?
A: Demand for estheticians is growing faster in Broomfield, driven by the medical spa and wellness trend. While there are more traditional cosmetology jobs (153), estheticians with specialized skills (laser, chemical peels) often have an easier time finding work and can command higher hourly rates.

Q: Do I need my own insurance?
A: If you’re booth renting or an independent contractor, yes. Liability insurance is a must and typically costs $100-$300/year. If you’re a W-2 employee, the salon’s policy may cover you, but verify this before signing any contract.

Q: How does the seasonality affect income?
A: Broomfield isn’t as seasonal as