New York Hair School and Requirements
If you want to become a hairstylist in New York, hair school alone isn't going to get you there. You need to get a full cosmetology license. However, you can take hair classes beyond your cosmetology training to hone your skills.
Browse our directory of hair design schools in New York, or skip ahead to learn about the state's hair design licensing requirements and job outlook.
Browse All Hair Schools in New York
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Westchester School of Beauty Culture – Accredited
Mount Vernon, NY 10550
You must attend a school that meets any licensure requirements as defined by your state. Most states require that you graduate from an accredited or state-approved school.
Related Beauty Careers
Not sure this is the right fit for you? Learn more about other career options in the beauty industry. Related specializations include:
New York Cosmetology School for Hairstylists
All hairstylists in New York must hold a current, valid license in cosmetology. To gain your license, there are several steps you must take:
Throughout your cosmetology program, you'll cover various topics: hair cutting, styling and coloring, nail care, skin care, chemistry, anatomy, and health and safety. As of last year, natural hair education is also an essential part of the curriculum—giving New York hairstylists extra skills that students from other states may not have.
While it may seem like a lot of ground to cover, having a comprehensive education in hair and beauty could help ensure a successful career as a hairstylist. It ensures you can give your clients the best possible experience and opens up opportunities in other areas, such as manicuring. Holding a full cosmetology license can also make it easier to relocate to other states.
Continuing Education for New York Hairstylists
In New York, cosmetology licenses must be renewed every four years. However, there is no continuing education requirement for renewal—you must simply pay a $40 fee and submit an online renewal application.
However, it's good practice to keep on top of the latest trends, techniques, and industry developments to offer a range of up-to-date services and keep existing techniques fresh in your mind. Many New York hairstylists voluntarily complete continuing education at a state-approved hair school to stay at the top of their game. Taking independent classes is also a great way to keep your portfolio up-to-date.
Hairstylist Salary in New York
According to the Bureau of Labor Services (BLS), hairstylists in New York earn an average of $43,010 per year, or $20.68 per hour—slightly above the national average of $38,910 per year.
The amount you can earn varies depending on your services and location. For example, someone specializing in color treatments at a high-end city salon will typically earn more than a newcomer in a rural area. The above BLS data doesn't include information about self-employed people—but according to ZipRecruiter.com, as of February 2024, a freelance hairstylist in New York earns an average salary of $46,765 per year.
In addition to higher-than-average salaries, job opportunities for New York hairstylists and cosmetologists are projected to grow by an incredible 57% between 2020 and 2030!
Contact the New York State Board of Cosmetology
- 99 Washington Avenue, Albany, NY 12231
- Website: New York Dept. of State Division of Licensing Services
- Call: 518-474-4429
- Fax: 518-473-6648