Cosmetologist in Longmont, CO

The Salary Picture: Where Longmont Stands

As a local Longmonter who’s watched the beauty industry evolve here for over a decade, I can tell you the numbers tell a specific story. Cosmetology in Longmont isn't a path to quick wealth, but it offers a stable, middle-class living if you're strategic. The median salary of $38,358/year (or $18.44/hour) places you just a hair's breadth below the national average of $38,370/year. This is typical for a smaller metro area that balances affordability with a cost of living that's nearly on par with the national average (Index: 99.9).

The job market is tight but growing. With 198 cosmetology jobs in the metro area and a 10-year job growth projection of 8%, you're not looking at a boomtown, but a steady, reliable market. This growth is largely fueled by Longmont's expanding population (Metro population: 99,306) and the "stay local" trend among residents who commute to Boulder or Denver but want services closer to home.

Here’s how experience breaks down in the local market. Note that these are estimates based on local salon data and BLS trends for the Denver-Aurora-Lakewood metro area, which influences our local wages.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Typical Hourly Rate	Primary Employment Type
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $32,000	$13.50 - $15.50	Commission/Booth Rent
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$35,000 - $42,000	$17.00 - $20.00	Mix of Commission & Tips
Senior/Expert (8+ years)	$45,000 - $55,000+	$21.50 - $26.50+	Salary + Commission, Tips
Specialty/Lead (10+ yrs)	$50,000 - $65,000+	$24.00 - $31.00+	Salary, Commission, Benefits

How Longmont Compares to Other Colorado Cities:

• Boulder: ~15-20% higher salaries due to cost of living and affluent clientele, but competition is fierce.
• Denver/Aurora: Similar median salaries, but a much larger job market (over 4,000 jobs). More corporate salon chains and high-end spas.
• Fort Collins: Very similar profile to Longmont—comparable salaries, slightly smaller market.
• Colorado Springs: Slightly lower median salary (around $36,000), but a larger military and family-oriented clientele.

Insider Tip: The $38,358 median is a composite. Your earnings are heavily dependent on your client retention rate, specialization, and whether you're in a commission-based salon (common in Old Town) or a booth-rent model (more common in the newer shopping centers along the US-287 corridor).

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The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A median salary of $38,358 translates to a monthly gross income of about $3,196. After federal, state (Colorado has a progressive income tax), and FICA taxes, a single filer can expect to take home approximately $2,400 - $2,500 per month. This is a rough estimate; use a Colorado-specific tax calculator for precision.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Median Earner)

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,548	The city average. See neighborhoods below.
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water, Internet)	$180 - $220	Highly variable by season (winter heating costs).
Groceries	$300 - $400
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$350 - $500	Essential in Longmont; limited public transit.
Health Insurance	$200 - $400	Critical if not offered by employer.
Misc. (Personal, Savings, Debt)	$300 - $500	Tight, but manageable.
Total Estimated Expenses	$2,878 - $3,368

Can they afford to buy a home? At the median salary, it's an uphill battle. The median home price in Longmont is approximately $550,000. A 20% down payment is $110,000. With a monthly take-home of ~$2,500 and a mortgage payment (PITI) of ~$2,800+, housing would consume over 100% of your net income. This is not feasible without a dual-income household or a substantial down payment. The verdict: Renting is the realistic path for most single-earner cosmetologists at the median income. Homeownership typically requires reaching the senior/expert salary bracket ($50k+) and partnering with another income earner.

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Where the Jobs Are: Longmont's Major Employers

Longmont’s cosmetology job market is a mix of established local institutions, franchise salons, and a smattering of high-end spas. The hiring trend favors versatility—cosmetologists who can do hair, nails, and basic skincare are more employable.

1. The Salons at Old Town: Located in the historic downtown core (Main & 4th St.), this is a collective of independent stylists and estheticians. They often have booths or chairs for rent. Hiring is sporadic and based on client need. Insider Tip: This is where the creative, artistic stylists thrive. Walking distance to cafes and a vibrant community.
2. Sport Clips Haircuts (Multiple Locations): Franchises along the US-287 corridor (e.g., on Ken Pratt Blvd.) and the south side. They have a structured hiring process and often offer benefits like health insurance for full-time stylists. Good for building speed and a consistent client base. Expect a commission-based pay structure.
3. Regis Salons (Inside Safeway/King Soopers): Several locations throughout Longmont. These are corporate salons with steady foot traffic from grocery shoppers. They often have openings for licensed cosmetologists. Pay is typically commission-based with a guaranteed minimum.
4. Boulder Valley Hair Design (Longmont Location): A well-regarded local chain with a salon in Longmont (often near the Village). They focus on a full-service experience and tend to hire stylists with 2+ years of experience. Offers a more traditional salon environment with strong mentorship.
5. Spas & Resorts (The St. Vrain, Estes Park Proximity): While not all in city limits, Longmont's proximity to Estes Park (30 mins) means some residents work at resorts like The Stanley Hotel. These jobs often require advanced certifications (esthetics, massage) and offer higher hourly wages but are competitive.
6. Independent Booth Renters: Many experienced cosmetologists rent booths in suites or smaller salons along Main Street or in the shopping centers at Roger's Grove. This is the path to true independence and higher earnings, but it requires a solid client base and marketing skills.

Hiring Trends: The market is stable. Most turnover occurs in the spring and fall. Salons are increasingly looking for cosmetologists comfortable with retail sales (shampoo, styling products) to supplement service income. Knowledge of social media for personal branding is a significant plus.

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Getting Licensed in CO

Colorado’s licensing is managed by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), Division of Professions and Occupations. The process is straightforward but requires diligence.

State-Specific Requirements:

1. Education: Complete 1,600 hours of training at a state-approved cosmetology school. In Longmont, the primary option is the Aveda Institute in nearby Boulder (a 20-minute commute). There are no cosmetology schools directly in Longmont, so commuting is necessary.
2. Exams: Pass both the Colorado Theory Exam and the Colorado Practical Exam (administered by PSI). The theory exam covers safety, sanitation, and theory; the practical exam tests your hands-on skills on a mannequin or live model.
3. Application: Submit your application to DORA with proof of education, exam scores, and a fee.

Costs (Approximate):

• Tuition at Aveda Institute Boulder: $18,000 - $22,000 (includes kit and books).
• Exam Fees: Theory ($109), Practical ($174).
• Licensing Application Fee: $88.
• Total Estimated Cost to Licensure: $18,300 - $22,300+.

Timeline to Get Started:

• Schooling: 10-12 months of full-time study.
• Exams & Licensing: Allow 1-2 months after graduation for scheduling exams and processing paperwork.
• Total: From day one of school to holding your license, expect 12-15 months.

Insider Tip: Many Aveda students work part-time (non-licensed) at local salons as shampoo assistants or receptionists to get a foot in the door and start building client relationships before they're even licensed.

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Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Longmont is a city of distinct neighborhoods. Your choice depends on your commute, lifestyle, and budget.

1. Old Town Historic District:

   • Vibe: Walkable, charming, full of local businesses. The heart of the creative community.
   • Commute: Walk or bike to many salons. Easy access to Main Street.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,400 - $1,700. Older buildings, less square footage, but character.
   • Best For: Stylists who value community, walkability, and an artistic atmosphere.

2. South Longmont (around 17th Ave & Hover St):

   • Vibe: Established residential area, close to shopping centers (Kohl's, Target, grocery stores). Quieter.
   • Commute: 5-10 minute drive to most salons. Good access to US-287 for commuting to Boulder or Denver.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,500 - $1,650. More modern apartments available.
   • Best For: Those who want a balance of quiet living with easy access to amenities.

3. Rogers Grove/Industrial Park Area:

   • Vibe: Mix of light industry and newer residential developments. Less charming, more functional.
   • Commute: 10-minute drive to anywhere. Close to the Aveda Institute in Boulder via Hwy 52.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,450 - $1,600. Often includes in-unit laundry.
   • Best For: Practical commuters who prioritize affordability and easy highway access.

4. The Villages/Southmoor Park:

   • Vibe: Family-oriented, suburban feel with parks and good schools. A bit farther from the core.
   • Commute: 15-minute drive to downtown salons. Requires a car.
   • Rent Estimate (1BR): $1,550 - $1,750. Often newer complexes with amenities.
   • Best For: Those who may want more space and don't mind a short drive.

Neighborhood Rent Comparison Table:

Neighborhood	Commute to Downtown	1BR Rent Estimate	Lifestyle Perk
Old Town	Walk/Bike	$1,400 - $1,700	Walkable, vibrant nightlife
South Longmont	5-10 min drive	$1,500 - $1,650	Proximity to big-box retail
Rogers Grove	10 min drive	$1,450 - $1,600	Newer builds, easy highway access
The Villages	15 min drive	$1,550 - $1,750	Suburban, family-friendly

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The Long Game: Career Growth

Stagnation is a risk in cosmetology. In Longmont, growth is about specialization and business acumen.

Specialty Premiums:

• Corrective Color & Balayage: Specialists in advanced color techniques can command $10-$20 more per service. This is a high-demand skill.
• Men's Grooming/Barbering: A growing niche, especially in the Old Town area. Can lead to a dedicated clientele.
• Esthetics & Lash Extensions: Adding an Esthetics license (additional 600 hours of school) opens doors to spa environments and can boost income by 20-30%. Lash certification is a shorter, profitable add-on.
• Bridal/Special Event Styling: This is a lucrative but competitive side business. Building a portfolio takes time.

Advancement Paths:

1. Commission Stylist → Senior Stylist: Increase your commission split (e.g., from 40% to 50-60%) based on client retention and sales.
2. Senior Stylist → Salon Manager/Lead: Move into a leadership role with a salary (often $45k-$55k) plus a smaller commission. Requires strong organizational skills.
3. Booth Renter → Salon Owner: The ultimate goal for many. Opening a suite or small salon in Longmont requires significant capital ($50k+) and business savvy. The market can support new, niche salons (e.g., men's barbering, curly hair specialists).
4. Educator/Sales Representative: Partner with a product line (like Aveda, Redken) to become an educator or work in sales, which can provide a stable salary plus travel.

10-Year Outlook:
The 8% job growth is steady. The demand will be for cosmetologists who can adapt. Trends like "skinification" of haircare and the demand for natural, holistic treatments (a strong fit for Longmont's vibe) will create opportunities. Those who embrace digital marketing (Instagram, TikTok) to build a personal brand will have a distinct advantage in attracting clients, whether they're in a commission chair or running their own business.

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The Verdict: Is Longmont Right for You?

Longmont offers a solid, if not spectacular, career path for cosmetologists. It's a place to build a stable living and a loyal client base without the extreme competition and cost of Boulder or Denver.

Pros	Cons
Manageable Cost of Living (Index: 99.9) vs. Boulder/Denver.	Lower Ceiling for income compared to major metros.
Growing Population (99,306) means a stable client base.	Limited Educational Options; must commute to school in Boulder.
Strong Community Feel; easier to build personal client relationships.	Relatively Small Job Market (198 jobs); fewer high-end spa options.
Proximity to Nature (Rocky Mountain Nat'l Park, St. Vrain Creek).	Car Dependency is high; limited public transit.
Path to Independence via booth rental is realistic.	Homeownership is very difficult on a single median salary.

Final Recommendation:
Longmont is an excellent choice for a mid-career cosmetologist (3-7 years experience) looking for a better work-life balance, a lower cost of living, and a chance to build a dedicated local clientele. It's also a good starting point for a new graduate willing to commute to school in Boulder and start their career in a supportive, less overwhelming environment than a big city. It is not the ideal choice for someone seeking the highest possible earnings, a vast array of luxury spa employers, or a car-free lifestyle. For the right person—practical, community-oriented, and skilled—Longmont can be a very rewarding place to build a career.

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FAQs

1. Is it better to work on commission or rent a booth in Longmont?
For a new cosmetologist, commission is often better—it provides structure, mentorship, and a built-in client flow. Renting a booth is for established professionals (5+ years) with a solid, portable client base. In Longmont, booth rental rates in suites can range from $250 - $500/week, so you need consistent income to cover that cost.

2. How important is it to have a car?
Essential. Longmont's public transit system (Longmont Ride-On) is limited. Most salons are in strip malls or commercial areas not easily accessible by bus. Commuting to the Aveda Institute in Boulder or visiting clients in surrounding areas requires a reliable vehicle.

3. Can I make a living wage as a new cosmetologist in Longmont?
It's tight. At the entry-level ($28k-$32k), you'll need a roommate or a very tight budget. Focus on building speed and a client base quickly. Many new stylists take on side gigs (retail, food service) in the first 1-2 years.

4. What's the best way to find a job here?

1. Network at Aveda Institute: Connect with local