Cosmetologist in Scranton, PA

The Salary Picture: Where Scranton Stands

Scranton offers a stable, if modest, market for cosmetology professionals. The cost of living here is a significant advantage, but it’s crucial to understand the salary landscape before making a move. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the financial picture for a cosmetologist in the Scranton metro area is defined by the following:

• Median Salary: $37,564/year
• Hourly Rate: $18.06/hour
• National Average: $38,370/year
• Jobs in Metro: 151
• 10-Year Job Growth: 8%

As you can see, the local median salary is just slightly below the national average. This is typical for Scranton, which balances a lower cost of living with competitive wages. The number of jobs in the metro area is modest but steady, and the projected 10-year growth of 8% indicates a healthy, sustainable demand for skilled cosmetologists, especially those who can build a loyal clientele.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Salaries in cosmetology are heavily influenced by experience, specialization, and whether you're an employee or a booth renter. Here’s a realistic breakdown for the Scranton area:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $33,000	Commission-based pay, building a clientele, working in larger salons.
Mid-Level (3-7 years)	$34,000 - $42,000	Established clientele, potential for tips, may specialize in one service.
Senior/Expert (8+ years)	$43,000 - $55,000+	High-end clientele, leadership roles (manager, educator), advanced certifications.

Insider Tip: Many cosmetologists in Scranton supplement their income by working part-time at events or offering mobile services for weddings, which are common in the surrounding Lackawanna County areas like Clarks Summit and Moosic.

Comparison to Other PA Cities

Scranton's salary is competitive within Pennsylvania, especially considering its low cost of living. Here’s how it stacks up against other major Pennsylvania metros:

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)
Scranton	$37,564	93.0
Philadelphia	$39,240	101.8
Pittsburgh	$36,890	89.6
Harrisburg	$35,900	92.1
Allentown	$37,100	95.5

While Philadelphia offers a slightly higher salary, its cost of living is significantly higher, eroding that advantage. Pittsburgh’s salary is lower, though its cost of living is comparable. For a cosmetologist seeking the best balance of earnings and affordability, Scranton presents a strong case.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s be practical. The median salary of $37,564 translates to a gross monthly income of approximately $3,130. After taxes (estimated at ~22% for federal, FICA, and state), your take-home pay is roughly $2,441 per month.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Scranton is $854/month. This leaves you with about $1,587 for all other expenses.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Person, Median Salary)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$854	Average across the city.
Utilities	$150	Electricity, gas, internet.
Groceries	$300	Scranton has affordable grocery options like Weis Markets and Price Chopper.
Transportation	$150	Gas, insurance, maintenance. Public transit (LANTA) is limited.
Personal/Care	$200	Includes haircuts, nails, etc.
Entertainment/Dining	$200	Local eateries, movies, etc.
Savings/Debt	$280	Emergency fund, student loans, etc.
Total	$2,134
Remaining Buffer	$307

This budget is tight but manageable. It requires mindful spending and doesn’t account for large unexpected expenses.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

The median home price in the Scranton metro area is approximately $185,000. With a median salary, a 20% down payment ($37,000) is a significant hurdle. However, many first-time homebuyer programs in Pennsylvania offer lower down payment options (3-5%). With a stable job and good credit, a cosmetologist earning the median salary could potentially qualify for a home in the $130,000 - $150,000 range after a few years of saving and career advancement. Neighborhoods like South Scranton or West Side often have more affordable single-family homes.

Where the Jobs Are: Scranton's Major Employers

The Scranton job market for cosmetologists is a mix of high-volume chains, local boutiques, and medical aesthetics. Here’s where to look:

1. The Aesthetic Institute (Clarks Summit): A leading medical aesthetics spa. They hire master estheticians and cosmetologists for advanced services like laser treatments and chemical peels. This is a top-tier employer for those with advanced certifications.

2. European Wax Center (Dickson City): A national chain with a strong presence in the Scranton area. They offer structured training and are a common starting point for new cosmetologists. Hiring is consistent due to high client volume.

3. Local Salon Suites (Various Locations): Suite rentals are a growing trend. Places like The Salon Professional Academy in Scranton often have suites available for rent. This path offers higher earning potential but requires you to build your own business.

4. Sephora (The Shoppes at Montage Mountain): A major employer with benefits, ideal for those interested in retail and brand specialization. They often hire cosmetologists for their beauty advisor roles.

5. Independent Salons (Downtown Scranton, Clarks Summit, Dunmore): Established salons like Salon 609 or Solstice Salon offer commission-based or hourly wages with built-in clientele. These are great for building a reputation in a supportive environment.

6. Hospitals & Senior Centers: While not traditional, facilities like Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine or Mountain View Care sometimes hire cosmetologists for wellness programs or to provide services for patients.

Hiring Trend: There's a noticeable shift toward medical aesthetics and specialized services (like brow lamination or lash extensions). Cosmetologists with certifications in these areas have a competitive edge.

Getting Licensed in PA

Pennsylvania's licensing is managed by the Pennsylvania State Board of Cosmetology. Here’s the step-in-step to get started:

1. Education: You must complete 1,250 hours at a state-approved cosmetology school. In Scranton, The Salon Professional Academy (TSPA) is the primary local option. Tuition ranges from $15,000 to $20,000, including kits.
2. Examination: After school, you must pass the Pennsylvania Cosmetology Practical Exam (administered by PSI) and the Cosmetology Theory Exam.
3. Licensing Fee: The application fee is $105.
4. Timeline: From starting school to holding a license typically takes 12-15 months.

Insider Tip: Apply for your license through the Pennsylvania Department of State's Licensing & Permit Services portal. Ensure your school submits your graduation verification promptly to avoid delays.

Best Neighborhoods for Cosmetologists

Where you live in Scranton affects your commute, client base, and lifestyle.

• Downtown Scranton: The heart of the action. Close to salons, restaurants, and events. A 1-bedroom here runs about $900-$1,100. Ideal for urban dwellers who want to be in the center of the beauty scene.
• West Side (Dunmore): A classic, residential area with a strong community feel. Many independent salons are located here. Rent is more moderate: $800-$950 for a 1-bedroom. Great for building a local clientele.
• Clarks Summit: An upscale suburb north of Scranton. Home to many medical spas and high-end salons. A 1-bedroom costs $950-$1,100. Best for cosmetologists targeting a higher-income clientele.
• South Scranton: More affordable and diverse. A great starting point for new arrivals. 1-bedroom apartments average $750-$850. The commute to downtown or Clarks Summit is easy via I-81.
• Downtown Scranton (Apartment Buildings): For those who prefer modern amenities, buildings like The Marketplace at Steamtown offer apartments with easy access to the mall and downtown salons. Prices are higher, around $1,200+.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Scranton's cosmetology market rewards specialization and entrepreneurship.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Medical Aesthetics: Can increase earnings by 20-30%. Requires additional certification (e.g., esthetics license, laser certification).
  • Lash & Brow Specialists: High demand, low overhead. Can work as an independent contractor earning $50-$75 per service.
  • Hair Coloring Specialist: A master colorist can command higher prices and build a referral-based business.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Salon Manager: Oversee operations, staff, and inventory at a large chain salon.
  • Educator: Work with a brand (like Redken or Paul Mitchell) or at TSPA to train new cosmetologists.
  • Business Owner: Open a solo studio, a suite rental, or a full-service salon. The lower cost of living makes business ownership more feasible than in larger cities.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 8% job growth, demand will remain steady. The biggest opportunity lies in the convergence of cosmetology and wellness. Cosmetologists who can offer holistic beauty services will be most successful.

The Verdict: Is Scranton Right for You?

Scranton is not a high-growth, high-cost beauty market like Los Angeles or New York. It’s a stable, affordable, and community-focused city where a skilled cosmetologist can build a comfortable, sustainable career.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living (93.0 index) allows for financial stability.	Salaries are modest; wealth accumulation is a long-term game.
Steady Demand (151 jobs, 8% growth) provides job security.	Market can be competitive; building a clientele takes time.
Community-Oriented network of salons and clients.	Limited public transportation; a car is essential.
Gateway to Specialization in medical aesthetics and wellness.	Fewer "big league" opportunities compared to major metros.

Final Recommendation: Scranton is an excellent choice for cosmetologists who value quality of life, affordability, and community. It’s ideal for those in the mid-career stage looking to establish themselves, or for new graduates seeking a manageable market to start in. It may be less suitable for those seeking rapid, high-income growth early in their career. If you're willing to specialize and build a loyal client base over time, Scranton offers a rewarding path.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a booth rental or suite in Scranton?
A: Yes, it's increasingly common. Salons like The Salon Professional Academy offer suites, and many independent salons in Dunmore and Clarks Summit have rental opportunities. Expect to pay $400-$800/month for a booth or suite, depending on location and amenities.

Q: How competitive is the job market for new cosmetologists?
A: Moderately competitive. Chains like European Wax Center have consistent turnover and are good starting points. The key is to network during your training at TSPA and consider an apprenticeship at a local salon to gain experience.

Q: Can I survive on an entry-level salary in Scranton?
A: It's challenging but possible with a strict budget. Sharing a 2-bedroom apartment ($1,100-$1,300) with a roommate can drastically reduce housing costs to under $600/month per person, freeing up more income for savings and discretionary spending.

Q: What is the best way to build a clientele in Scranton?
A: Word-of-mouth is king in this city. Partner with local businesses for cross-promotions, offer introductory discounts, and maintain an active, professional social media presence. Participating in community events (like First Friday Scranton) also helps build visibility.

Q: Are there opportunities for mobile cosmetology services?
A: Absolutely. Mobile services for weddings, bridal showers, and at-home services for seniors are in demand. This requires reliable transportation and a portable kit. It’s a great way to supplement income, especially when first starting out.