Barber Salary and Job Market Outlook in Montana

What is the average salary for Barbers in Montana?

The average salary for barbers in Montana is $25,639 per year.

Are there variations in Barber salaries based on geographic regions in Montana?

Yes, there are variations in Barber salaries based on geographic regions in Montana. Generally, Barber salaries tend to be higher in larger cities such as Billings and Missoula than in rural areas. The cost of living is also higher in larger cities, so salaries tend to reflect this. Additionally, many Barbers find that tipping is more common in larger cities, which can increase their overall income.

What factors, such as experience, specialization, or market conditions, can impact Barber salary in Montana?

1. Experience: Barbers with more experience typically command higher salaries due to their increased knowledge, skill set, and customer satisfaction.

2. Specialization: Barbers who specialize in a certain type of haircut or styling may command higher salaries than those who provide a more general service.

3. Market Conditions: The current supply and demand of barbers in a particular area can affect salary levels, depending on the number of qualified barbers. Higher demand for barbers in an area could lead to higher salaries.

4. Location: Some cities and towns in Montana may have higher costs of living than others, and thus may offer higher salaries for barbers to accommodate these costs. Additionally, metropolitan areas of the state may offer more opportunities for barbers to earn higher salaries due to increased competition.

How does the salary for Barbers compare to the national average for the profession in Montana?

The national average salary for Barbers in Montana is $29,915 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is slightly higher than the average salary for Barbers in the United States as a whole, which is $29,736 per year.

Are there opportunities for Barbers to earn tips or commissions in addition to a base salary in Montana?

Yes, there are opportunities for barbers to earn tips or commissions in addition to a base salary in Montana. Generally speaking, barbers in Montana make between $10 and $20 per hour, with those at the higher end of the pay scale earning tips or commissions in addition to their base salary. Some barbers may even earn up to $30 per hour with tips and commissions.

What are the typical work schedules for Barbers, and do they include options for part-time or flexible hours in Montana?

Barbers in Montana typically work full-time hours, typically eight to ten hours per day, five days a week. Some barbers may opt for part-time work, usually three to four days a week. Barbers may also have the option to work flexible hours, as some shops may open as early as 7am and close late in the evening. However, this will depend on the shop and its hours of operation.

Is there a demand for Barbers, and how does the job market outlook look for this profession in Montana?

Yes, there is a demand for barbers in Montana. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market outlook for barbers in Montana is projected to grow 8% from 2019-2029, which is faster than the average rate of growth for all occupations. This growth is driven by an increasing population and a growing demand for beauty services.

Are there specific barber services, such as haircuts, shaves, or grooming, that have higher demand for Barbers in Montana?



Haircuts are by far the most popular service requested by clients in Montana, as well as other states. Shaves and beard trims are also popular services offered by barbers in Montana. Other services that may be of higher demand include hairstyling, coloring, facial waxing, and scalp treatments.

Are there opportunities for bilingual or multilingual Barbers to serve diverse communities and clients in Montana?

Yes, there are opportunities for bilingual or multilingual barbers to serve diverse communities and clients in Montana. Many towns and cities throughout the state have a growing population of Spanish, Hmong, and other non-English speaking individuals. Barbers who speak more than one language can provide services to this population, which is especially beneficial for those who are new to the area or unfamiliar with American culture. Additionally, many barbershops also specialize in cultural cuts, such as Mohawks or fades, for clients of different backgrounds.

What is the employment growth rate for Barbers, and are there expected shortages or surpluses in the workforce in Montana?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of barbers in Montana is expected to grow 5 percent from 2019 to 2029. This rate of growth is slightly faster than the average for all occupations. Employment of barbers is projected to remain stable, suggesting there will not be any significant shortages or surpluses in the workforce.

What are the employment benefits, such as healthcare, retirement, or bonuses, typically offered to Barbers in Montana?

Employment benefits offered to Barbers in Montana vary depending on the barber’s employer. Benefits may include health insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, bonuses, and tips. Health insurance typically provided by an employer may include medical, vision and dental coverage. Retirement plans may include 401(k) plans, pensions, or other investment options. Bonuses may be offered as incentives for meeting sales goals or for excellent customer service. Additionally, many barbers receive tips from their clients, which can supplement their base salary.

Is there a need for Barbers with expertise in specific grooming trends or styles, such as traditional barbering or modern haircuts in Montana?

Yes, there is a need for barbers with expertise in specific grooming trends or styles in Montana. Montana has a large population of young adults, many of whom prefer modern haircuts and styles. Barbers in the state have been increasingly offering services for these types of styles and trends. Barber shops are also starting to offer traditional barbering services as more and more people are expressing interest in the classic look.

What are the opportunities for career growth and advancement for Barbers in Montana?

Barbers in Montana have a number of opportunities for career growth and advancement. Barbers can advance their skillset by attending seminars, workshops, and classes to increase their knowledge of hair styling techniques. In addition, they can specialize in a certain type of cut or style, such as razor cutting or beard trimming. They can also expand their client base by networking and advertising to local businesses and organizations. Finally, Montana barbers can advance their career by gaining managerial experience and by owning their own barber shop.

Are there resources, such as job listings, networking events, or barber associations, available to help immigrants find job opportunities as Barbers in Montana?

Yes, there are resources available to help immigrants find job opportunities as Barbers in Montana. The Montana State Board of Barbers and Hairdressers offers a list of job openings for licensed Barbers in the state. Additionally, the National American Network of Barbers provides resources, including job listings, networking events, and professional associations, to help immigrants find jobs in the Barber field. Furthermore, many local barber shops may offer job opportunities for immigrants on an informal basis.

What are the expectations regarding ethical and professional conduct of Barbers, especially when dealing with diverse clients in Montana?

The expectations regarding ethical and professional conduct of Barbers in Montana are the same as those for any other profession. Barbers should strive to be professional, courteous, respectful, and act with integrity at all times. They should practice safe and sanitary methods in their work, following all guidelines set forth by their state or local licensing boards.

Additionally, Barbers should be aware of and sensitive to the diversity of their clients’ backgrounds and cultures. They should strive to create a welcoming environment that is free from prejudice, discrimination and harassment. Barbers should ask permission before touching a client’s skin or hair, be respectful of clients’ personal choices regarding hairstyles, and show empathy and understanding when dealing with clients of different backgrounds, genders, sexual orientations, disabilities, religions, etc.

Are there opportunities for immigrants, including those with language skills, to find employment as Barbers in Montana?

Yes, there are opportunities for immigrants to find employment as barbers in Montana. To be eligible for licensure in Montana, applicants must either have a valid license from another state or pass the barbering licensing examination offered by the Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists. The Board offers examinations in both English and Spanish, so immigrants with language skills may be able to utilize those skills to gain licensure. Once licensed, they can apply for jobs at barbershops throughout the state.

What are the potential legal implications or challenges immigrants may face when pursuing a career as a Barber, especially in the context of immigration status, in Montana?

Immigrants pursuing a career as a barber in Montana may face legal challenges or implications related to their immigration status. In order to legally work as a barber in Montana, an individual must obtain a Montana barber license from the Montana Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists. In order to obtain such a license, one must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States. Additionally, an individual must also submit proof of age, identity, and residency in the form of a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport. Moreover, applicants must also pass a criminal background check and submit fingerprints to the Montana Board of Barbers & Cosmetologists.

Immigrants who do not possess legal status in the United States may face difficulty in obtaining the necessary documents to be eligible for a barber license. Furthermore, if an immigrant has been convicted of certain crimes, they may be denied a license on the basis of their criminal history. Lastly, even if an immigrant is able to obtain the proper documents and pass the barber licensing requirements, they may still find it difficult to find employment because employers may be wary of hiring undocumented workers due to the potential of federal penalties or fines for hiring such individuals.

Are there options for language assistance, cultural competency training, or support for immigrants who may face language or cultural barriers when working as Barbers in Montana?

Yes, there are options for language assistance, cultural competency training, or support for immigrants who may face language or cultural barriers when working as barbers in Montana. The Montana Department of Labor & Industry offers a program called Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Training for Barbers, which is designed to help barbers understand how to support and communicate with clients from different cultural backgrounds. This program is free and available to all barbers in Montana. Additionally, the Montana Immigrant Justice Alliance (MIJA) provides free English classes, employment assistance, and other support for immigrants in the state.

Are there organizations, associations, or online platforms that provide job listings and career resources specifically for Barbers in Montana?

Unfortunately, there are no organizations or online platforms that provide job listings and career resources specifically for barbers in Montana. However, there are several resources available to barbers in Montana that could be helpful in finding employment, such as the following:

1. Montana Board of Barbers and Cosmetologists: This state board provides licensing information and other resources related to the barbering industry in Montana.

2. The American Barbers Association: This national organization provides information and resources for barbers across the United States, including job postings and educational opportunities.

3. Professional Beauty Association: This organization provides career advice, resources, and certification opportunities for cosmetology professionals, including barbers.

4. The Montana Department of Labor and Industry: This state agency provides links to job postings, workforce development resources, and career development opportunities.

What are the opportunities for immigrant Barbers to open their own barber shops or salons, and what are the associated costs and requirements in Montana?

In Montana, non-citizens can obtain a barber shop or salon license if they meet the following requirements:

1. Obtain a valid Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN)
2. Obtain a valid Montana Barber/Salon License
3. Pass the Montana Written and Practical Exams
4. Complete 16 hours of continuing education every two years to maintain the license
5. Have a valid Montana business license and tax registration certificate
6. Have liability insurance coverage
7. Follow all other state and local regulations

The cost for a license in Montana is $150, plus any fees associated with taking the exams. In addition to the licensing costs, an immigrant barber would need to secure a space to rent or own, obtain the necessary equipment and supplies, and pay for any applicable business taxes and fees.