Cosmetologist in Des Moines, IA

As a career analyst who has spent years mapping out professional paths in the Midwest, I've watched Des Moines quietly build a robust beauty and wellness economy. It’s not a fashion capital, but it’s a stable, affordable city where skilled cosmetologists can build a solid career without the crushing overhead of coastal metros. This guide is for you—the licensed professional considering a move, or the local looking to level up. We’re going beyond averages and into the real numbers, neighborhoods, and employers that define the Des Moines cosmetology landscape.

The Salary Picture: Where Des Moines Stands

Let's start with the hard data. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market analysis, the financial reality for cosmetologists in the Des Moines-West Des Moines metro area is a tale of two paths: the employee and the independent contractor.

The median salary for a cosmetologist in Des Moines is $37,529/year, which translates to an hourly rate of $18.04/hour. This sits slightly below the national average of $38,370/year. However, this figure can be misleading. It often represents a base wage from a commission-based salon, excluding tips and product sales, which can significantly boost actual take-home pay. The metro area supports a healthy 420 jobs for cosmetologists, with a projected 10-year job growth of 8%, which is steady and reliable, if not explosive.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Here’s a more granular look at what you can expect to earn at different career stages. Note that these are generalized estimates; top performers in high-end salons or successful independent stylists can far exceed these figures.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Typical Work Setting
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$28,000 - $34,000	Commission-based chair rental at a mid-tier salon. Building a client base.
Mid-Level	3-7 years	$35,000 - $48,000	Established with a loyal clientele. May have moved to a higher commission split or booth rental.
Senior	8-15 years	$45,000 - $65,000+	Senior stylist with a large, repeat clientele. Often mentoring or managing. Potential for salon ownership.
Expert	15+ years	$60,000 - $100,000+	Educator, salon owner, or highly specialized stylist (e.g., corrective color, extensions) with a premium pricing model.

Comparison to Other Iowa Cities

Des Moines is the state's largest metro, but it's not the highest-paying. Here’s how it stacks up against other Iowa hubs:

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Key Market Notes
Des Moines Metro	$37,529	92.7	Largest job market (420 jobs). Highest concentration of corporate salons and spas.
Cedar Rapids	$36,800	87.1	More industrial base; smaller but stable beauty market. Lower rent offsets slightly lower pay.
Iowa City	$35,500	91.5	College-town dynamic. Demand is high but seasonal (student cycles). More commission-heavy.
Davenport (Quad Cities)	$36,000	84.2	Lower cost of living, but a smaller, more traditional salon market. Less corporate presence.

Des Moines offers the best balance: a larger, more diverse job market than Cedar Rapids or Davenport, with a cost of living that remains significantly below the national average.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A salary is just a number until you see what’s left after life happens. Let’s break down the monthly budget for a cosmetologist earning the median $37,529 salary.

Assumptions:

• Gross Monthly Income: $37,529 / 12 = $3,127
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, FICA, State): ~22% = -$688
• Net Monthly Income: $2,439

Monthly Budget Breakdown:

• Rent (1-BR Average): $899
• Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet): $150
• Groceries: $300
• Health Insurance (if not employer-provided): $250
• Car Payment/Gas/Insurance: $400
• Student Loans (if applicable): $150
• Misc. & Personal Care: $200
• Total Essential Expenses: $2,349

Disposable Income Remaining: $90/month

This tight budget highlights why many cosmetologists in Des Moines pursue side hustles, build a strong clientele for higher tips, or work in higher-end salons. The good news? The Cost of Living Index of 92.7 means your dollar goes further here than in 70% of U.S. cities.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Yes, but it requires strategic planning. The median home price in the Des Moines metro is approximately $240,000. With a $90/month surplus, a traditional 20% down payment ($48,000) is out of reach for most on this salary alone. However, Iowa offers excellent first-time homebuyer programs, such as the Iowa Finance Authority's FirstHome program, which can offer down payment assistance and lower interest rates. Many cosmetologists in Des Moines purchase homes after 5-10 years of building their clientele and increasing their income to the mid or senior level ($45,000+).

Where the Jobs Are: Des Moines's Major Employers

The Des Moines beauty market is a mix of high-end corporate chains, local boutique salons, and thriving med-spas. Here are the key players:

1. Maxim Hair Restoration & Spa: A premier medical spa located near the trendy East Village. They hire licensed cosmetologists for specialized treatments like keratin smoothing and advanced color. Hiring is competitive, often seeking stylists with 3+ years of experience and a portfolio. They offer salaried positions with benefits, a rarity in the industry.

2. The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) Des Moines: While an educational institution, TSPA is a major employer of licensed stylists as educators and salon managers. It’s a stable, salaried career path for those tired of the commission grind. They often post openings for licensed instructors.

3. European Wax Center (Multiple Locations): A national chain with several locations in the Des Moines area (Waukee, Johnston, Clive). They hire licensed cosmetologists exclusively for waxing services. It’s a fast-paced environment with a focus on speed and consistency. They offer structured training and a clear path to management.

4. Local Boutique Salons (e.g., The Hair Loft, Salon 515, J. Scott Salon): These are the backbone of the local industry. Salons like J. Scott Salon in West Des Moines are known for their high-end clientele and commission splits that can reach 50/50. Hiring trends here are based on personality, fit, and skill. Walk-in applications with a portfolio are still effective.

5. Hy-Vee Corporate & In-Store Salons: The Iowa-based grocery giant Hy-Vee has a chain of salons within their stores. These offer stable hourly wages plus tips and product commission. They are excellent for entry-level cosmetologists seeking consistent hours and benefits.

6. Spas at Major Hotels & Resorts: The Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel in Altoona and the Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel often hire cosmetologists for their spa services. These positions are highly sought after for their predictable schedules and hotel employee benefits.

Getting Licensed in Iowa

The Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences sets the rules. You must complete 1,550 hours of training at a state-licensed school or 2,100 hours of apprenticeship.

• Process & Costs:

  1. Schooling: Average tuition at a Des Moines-area cosmetology school (like La James International College or The Salon Professional Academy) ranges from $15,000 to $20,000. This includes kits and books.
  2. Exams: After graduation, you must pass the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology (NIC) written and practical exams. Exam fees are approximately $200.
  3. Application: Submit your application to the Iowa Board with proof of graduation and exam scores. The license application fee is $120.
  4. Total Estimated Cost: $15,320 - $20,320

• Timeline: From enrollment to holding your license, expect 9-14 months if attending school full-time. Apprenticeship routes can take longer due to the required 2,100 hours.

Insider Tip: Iowa has reciprocity with many states, but not all. If you're moving from another state, check the Iowa Board's website for specific requirements. You may need to take the Iowa jurisprudence exam.

Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Where you live affects your commute and your clientele. Des Moines’ neighborhoods are distinct.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (1-BR)	Best For
East Village	Hip, urban, walkable. Close to downtown salons and med-spas (Maxim). A 5-10 min drive to most job centers.	$1,100 - $1,300	Younger cosmetologists wanting an active social scene and short commutes.
West Des Moines (West Glen)	Family-friendly, modern suburbs. High concentration of salons (J. Scott, European Wax). Easy access to I-80/35.	$950 - $1,150	Established professionals with families or those targeting affluent suburban clients.
Ankeny	Rapidly growing northern suburb. More affordable housing, good school systems. A 20-minute commute to downtown.	$850 - $1,000	Entry-level or mid-level cosmetologists seeking affordability and a growing client base.
Beaverdale	Classic, charming Des Moines neighborhood. Central location, reasonable rents, and a mix of local businesses.	$800 - $950	Those who want a central location without the East Village price tag.
Waukee	Far western suburb, but home to a European Wax Center and growing residential areas. Commute is longer to downtown.	$850 - $1,000	Cosmetologists who prefer a quieter, suburban lifestyle but need access to chain salon jobs.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A cosmetology license is a toolkit. In Des Moines, your growth depends on specialization.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Certified Extension Specialist: Can command 20-30% higher prices. Training (like Great Lengths or Balmain) is a significant upfront cost but pays off.
  • Master Colorist (e.g., Redken, Wella Certified): High-end salons value this. It can boost your commission split and attract premium clientele.
  • Med-Spa Services: Learning to perform facials, microdermabrasion, or lash lifts (requires additional 600+ hours of training in IA) can open doors to med-spa settings, which often offer higher hourly wages.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Independent Contractor: Rent a booth (typically $150-$300/week in Des Moines). You keep 100% of your earnings but pay for all your own overhead.
  2. Salon Manager: Oversee operations, staff, and inventory. Salaried position ($45k-$60k).
  3. Educator: Teach at a cosmetology school. Requires 2-3 years of experience and a passion for mentoring.
  4. Salon Owner: The ultimate goal. Requires business acumen, capital, and a strong clientele. Des Moines has a supportive network for small business owners.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% job growth is promising. The trend is toward wellness integration (skin, nails, hair under one roof) and specialized services. Cosmetologists who adapt to these trends will see the most significant income growth.

The Verdict: Is Des Moines Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle on a moderate salary.	Salary ceiling is lower than in major coastal cities (though cost of living adjusts this).
Stable, steady job market with diverse employer types.	Seasonal fluctuations are mild but present (holiday peaks, summer lulls).
Supportive, tight-knit beauty community with networking opportunities.	Limited "glamour" industry presence; fewer celebrity or fashion-focused opportunities.
Excellent work-life balance and minimal traffic compared to larger metros.	Requires active client-building; walk-ins are less common than in tourist hubs.
Strong growth in med-spas and wellness for licensed professionals.	Licensing reciprocity can be tricky for some states, requiring extra steps.

Final Recommendation: Des Moines is an excellent choice for a cosmetologist who values stability, affordability, and community over the high-stakes, high-reward chaos of a fashion capital. It’s ideal for the professional who wants to build a loyal, repeat clientele over time, invest in a home, and enjoy a high quality of life. If you're self-motivated, personable, and willing to specialize, you can build a very profitable and fulfilling career here.

FAQs

1. Is tipping culture strong in Des Moines salons?
Yes, absolutely. Tipping is standard at 15-20% for services. In a commission-based salon, tips can often double your take-home pay from the base commission. It’s a critical part of your income.

2. Do I need a car in Des Moines?
For most cosmetologists, a car is essential. Public transportation exists but is not reliable for commuting to all salons, especially in suburbs like West Des Moines or Ankeny. Salons are often in strip malls or standalone buildings not served by direct bus routes.

3. How competitive is the market for new graduates?
It’s competitive but not saturated. A new graduate with a great attitude, a professional portfolio (even from school projects), and a willingness to work evenings/weekends can find a chair. The key is to apply to multiple salons and be open to starting as an assistant to gain experience.

4. Can I work as a cosmetologist if I'm just licensed for nails or esthetics?
Yes, but with a caveat. Iowa issues separate licenses for Cosmetology, Esthetics, and Nail Technology. You can only perform services within your licensed scope. Many salons employ multiple specialists, so there are jobs for all three disciplines.

5. What are the biggest mistakes cosmetologists make when moving to Des Moines?
Two common errors: 1) Underestimating the time to build a clientele. It can take 6-12 months to establish a steady stream. Have savings to cover the gap. 2) Not networking. The Des Moines beauty community is interconnected. Attend local events like the Iowa Beauty & Barber Association shows and join Facebook groups like "Des Moines Area Cosmetologists" to connect with employers and peers.