Cosmetologist in Gulfport, MS

The Salary Picture: Where Gulfport Stands

As a Gulfport local, I can tell you straight up: the cosmetology scene here is solid, but it’s not a gold rush. You’re looking at a median salary of $37,138/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.85/hour. That’s slightly below the national average of $38,370/year, but it’s important to remember the context. Gulfport’s cost of living is significantly lower than the U.S. average (index of 89.3 vs. 100), which makes that paycheck stretch further.

Here’s how experience typically translates into pay in our local market. This is a realistic breakdown based on salon conversations and job postings in the Gulfport-Biloxi metro area.

| Experience Level | Typical Annual Salary | What It Looks Like in Gulfport |
| :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- |
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | $28,000 - $32,000 | You’re likely working as an assistant or junior stylist in a busy salon, focusing on building a clientele. Commission or hourly + tips is the common model. |
| Mid-Level (2-7 years) | $34,000 - $41,000 | This is where the median $37,138 sits. You have a solid, repeat clientele and can handle a full book of cuts, color, and basic treatments. |
| Senior Stylist (7-15 years) | $42,000 - $52,000 | You’re a lead stylist, possibly a salon manager. Your income is driven largely by a loyal following and higher-end services (keratin treatments, advanced coloring). |
| Expert/Salon Owner (15+ years) | $55,000+ | This tier is variable. It includes master stylists who command premium prices and salon owners. Profit depends heavily on location, overhead, and business acumen. |

Insider Tip: Gulfport’s market is heavily influenced by tourism and the military. The 145 jobs in the metro area means competition exists, but so does opportunity. The 10-year job growth projection of 8% is steady, not explosive, so building a strong reputation is key. Compared to Jackson, MS, where salaries can be slightly higher but the cost of living is also higher, Gulfport offers a better balance for many. Biloxi’s casino scene creates demand for evening and weekend appointments, which can boost tip income significantly.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. On a $37,138 salary, your monthly take-home pay after federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare is approximately $2,450 (this is a rough estimate; use a paycheck calculator for your exact situation). Now, factor in Gulfport’s average 1BR rent of $923/month.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for a Cosmetologist Earning $37,138:

• Take-Home Pay: ~$2,450
• Rent (1BR): $923
• Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet): $180
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: $350 (Gulfport is car-dependent)
• Groceries & Household: $300
• Health Insurance (if not through employer): $200 (varies widely)
• Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal Care): $150
• Remaining for Savings/Debt/Leisure: $347

This budget is tight but manageable. It doesn’t leave a huge margin for error, which is common in service-based careers. The key is controlling housing costs and having a reliable vehicle.

Can they afford to buy a home?
On a single $37,138 income, buying a home in Gulfport is challenging but not impossible. The median home price in Gulfport hovers around $180,000 - $210,000. A 20% down payment ($36k-$42k) is a significant hurdle. However, with a good credit score and an FHA loan (3.5% down), a single person could potentially afford a home in the $160,000 range, which would put their mortgage, taxes, and insurance around $1,100-$1,200/month. This would strain the budget shown above, making it difficult unless you have a partner or roommate, or significantly increase your income through commissions, tips, and building your clientele.

Where the Jobs Are: Gulfport's Major Employers

The Gulfport job market for cosmetologists is a mix of independent salons, chain franchises, and a few unique niches. Here are the key players:

1. The Chains (Supercuts, Great Clips, Sport Clips): These are everywhere in Gulfport, especially near the Crossroads shopping center and along Highway 49. They offer steady hourly wages, benefits, and a fast-paced environment perfect for building speed and a clientele. Hiring is frequent, and they often provide training for recent graduates.
2. High-End Salons & Spas: Look for salons in the Downtown Gulfport revitalization area and near the upscale Cedar Lake neighborhood. Employers like Salon Bellissimo or The Retreat Day Spa cater to an affluent clientele. They often look for stylists with specialty training (balayage, extensions) and offer higher commission splits. Hiring is more selective.
3. Medical Spas & Dermatology Clinics: Gulfport’s growing wellness scene includes medspas that employ cosmetologists for advanced skincare treatments, chemical peels, and laser hair removal. Clinics associated with Memorial Hospital at Gulfport may have openings. This requires additional certifications but offers higher, more stable pay.
4. Resort & Casino Salons: Biloxi’s casino resorts (Hard Rock, Beau Rivage, IP Casino) have full-service salons and spas. These jobs are golden for evening and weekend shifts, catering to tourists and high-rollers. Pay is often a mix of hourly and high tips. It’s competitive to get in, but the income potential is significant.
5. Independent Booth Renters: Many experienced cosmetologists in Gulfport rent a chair or booth in an established salon (e.g., on Pass Road or Creosote Road). This is a common path after 5-7 years of experience. You keep 100% of your service revenue but pay a weekly/monthly rent and handle your own taxes and supplies. It’s a step toward salon ownership.
6. Freelance for Events: Gulfport hosts numerous events, from the Gulfport Music Festival to weddings at The Chimneys. Building a network for bridal party hair and makeup can be a lucrative side hustle. This is not a primary employer but a key income supplement.

Hiring Trends: There is steady demand for stylists who are proficient in textured hair (a significant portion of the Gulfport population) and those with experience in men’s grooming (a growing sector). Salons are increasingly looking for cosmetologists who are also skilled at retailing products, as this is a major profit center.

Getting Licensed in MS

The Mississippi State Board of Cosmetology regulates the industry. Here’s the practical path:

• Requirements: You must complete 1,500 hours of education at a licensed cosmetology school. The curriculum covers hair, skin, and nails. After school, you must pass both a written and practical exam.
• Costs:
  • School Tuition: Ranges from $10,000 to $18,000 for the full program. Community colleges like Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) offer more affordable options (closer to the $10k mark). Private academies can be pricier.
  • Exam Fees: Approximately $150 for the state board exam.
  • Licensing Fee: $100 for the initial license.
  • Total Estimated Start-Up Cost: $10,250 - $18,250. Financial aid and scholarships are often available through the schools.
• Timeline:
  1. Enroll in School: 1,500 hours typically takes 12-15 months of full-time study. Part-time options can take longer.
  2. Graduate & Apply for Exam: Submit your application to the state board.
  3. Schedule Exams: Allow 2-4 weeks after graduation to receive exam dates.
  4. Get Licensed: Once you pass both exams, you can receive your license, usually within 1-2 weeks.
  • Total Time from Start to Licensed: 14-18 months.

Insider Tip: MGCCC’s Perkinston campus offers a strong cosmetology program. Graduating from a reputable local school gives you a built-in network for your first job in Gulfport.

Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Where you live affects your commute and lifestyle. Here’s a local’s guide:

1. Downtown Gulfport: The heart of the revitalization. You’re close to independent salons, the Gulfport Premium Outlets, and the harbor. Commute to most salons is under 15 minutes. The vibe is walkable, with cafes and art galleries. Rent for a 1BR: $800 - $1,100.
2. West Gulfport (near the Airport/49 Corridor): This area has a mix of older homes and apartments. It’s centrally located, putting you 10 minutes from chains on Highway 49 and 15 minutes from the casinos in Biloxi. Rent for a 1BR: $750 - $950.
3. Cedar Lake / Orange Grove: More suburban and family-oriented. This area has newer apartment complexes and single-family homes. It’s a quieter area, about a 20-minute commute to downtown or the casinos. Good for those who want more space and less traffic. Rent for a 1BR/2BR: $900 - $1,300.
4. Long Beach: Technically a separate town, but part of the metro. It’s a charming, smaller community with a great small-town feel. Commute to Gulfport is about 15-20 minutes. Popular with young professionals and families. Rent for a 1BR: $850 - $1,000.
5. Biloxi (East Side): If you get a job at a casino or resort salon, living in East Biloxi (near the casinos) cuts your commute to under 10 minutes. The area is lively and tourist-focused. Rent for a 1BR: $850 - $1,050.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Gulfport won’t make you a millionaire overnight, but it offers a clear path for growth if you’re strategic.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest income boost comes from specializing. In Gulfport, these skills command a premium:
  • Textured Hair Expertise: This is non-negotiable for a thriving clientele. Stylists who master curls, coils, and kinks can easily charge 20-30% more than generalists.
  • Advanced Color: Balayage, blonding, and corrective color are high-demand services.
  • Extensions: Tape-in or hand-tied extensions can double your service ticket.
  • Licensure for Skincare/Nails: Adding an esthetician or nail tech license opens up spa and medspa opportunities.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Junior Stylist -> Senior Stylist: Build your book. (Years 0-5)
  2. Senior Stylist -> Salon Manager or Educator: Take on leadership, train new hires, manage inventory. (Years 5-10)
  3. Senior Stylist -> Booth Renter/Independent Contractor: Increase your profit margin, set your own hours. (Years 5-10)
  4. Owner: Open your own salon in a Gulfport neighborhood like Downtown or Oak Grove. This requires strong business sense and capital. (Years 10+)
• 10-Year Outlook: With 8% job growth, the demand will be steady. The key will be adapting to trends—sustainable products, virtual consultations, and wellness-focused services. Gulfport’s tourism and growing retiree population will continue to drive demand for high-quality hair and skincare services. The cosmetologists who invest in continuous education and build a strong personal brand will see the most significant income growth.

The Verdict: Is Gulfport Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $37,138 salary goes much further here.	Lower Ceiling: Top-tier earning potential is limited compared to major metros.
Steady Demand: Tourism, military, and retiree populations ensure a consistent client base.	Car Dependency: You need a reliable vehicle for commuting.
Strong Community: The local beauty community is tight-knit and supportive.	Seasonal Fluctuations: Tourism dips can affect income, especially for those in resorts.
Growth Opportunity: 8% job growth and clear paths to specialization and ownership.	Competition: For the best jobs, especially in high-end salons, you’ll need to stand out.
Lifestyle Perks: Beach access, outdoor activities, and a laid-back Southern vibe.	Limited Nightlife/Scene: If you’re seeking a bustling, metropolitan arts scene, Gulfport may feel quiet.

Final Recommendation:
Gulfport is an excellent choice for a cosmetologist who values work-life balance, affordability, and a strong sense of community. It’s ideal for recent graduates looking to build their skills in a supportive market, mid-career stylists seeking a lower cost of living, or experienced professionals who want to open their own salon without the astronomical overhead of a big city. If your primary goal is to earn a top-tier national salary immediately, you’d be better served in a larger city. But if you want to build a sustainable, fulfilling career and enjoy a coastal lifestyle, Gulfport is a smart, data-driven bet.

FAQs

Q: How much can I realistically make in tips in Gulfport?
A: Tips can make up 20-30% of your total income in Gulfport. In a busy chain salon, you might average $50-$100 in tips per day. In a high-end salon or casino spa, that can jump to $100-$200+ per day, especially on weekends. It’s a cash-heavy industry.

Q: Is it better to work in Gulfport or Biloxi?
A: It depends on your specialty. Gulfport has more of the daily, suburban clientele (cuts, color, families). Biloxi, driven by casinos and tourism, has more demand for evening/weekend appointments, updos, beauty services, and higher-end treatments. Many cosmetologists work in both markets.

Q: Do I need to specialize right away?
A: No. Start as a generalist to build speed and a broad clientele. After 2-3 years, identify what you love and what’s in demand locally (textured hair is a safe bet). Then, invest in advanced education for that specialty.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge for a new cosmetologist in Gulfport?
A: Building your clientele from scratch. The first 6-12 months can be financially tight. Working at a chain salon can provide a steady base of walk-in clients to help you build your book. Networking with other local stylists is also crucial.

Q: Are there opportunities for continuing education locally?
A: Yes. The Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and private academies in Gulfport and Biloxi regularly host workshops and advanced certification classes. Following local salon owners and educators on social media is the best way to stay updated on events.