For many hairstylists, the leap from renting a chair to owning a salon is the ultimate dream and the ultimate risk. You go from being your own boss in a shared space to becoming everyone’s leader in a space that’s all yours. The shift is exciting, challenging, and often very humbling.
If you're a professional hairstylist thinking about this transition, it’s important to understand what will change—and what surprisingly won’t.
The Pros of Salon Ownership
Creative Control
You get to build the brand, vibe, and culture you’ve always envisioned. From the music and decor to the retail you carry, every detail becomes an extension of your creative identity.
Team Culture
You have the opportunity to create an inspiring environment for other stylists. Many salon owners say this is their favorite part—mentoring others, building a supportive team, and watching stylists grow within your space.
Financial Potential
While overhead increases, so does income potential—especially if you offer multiple revenue streams like booth rentals, commission stylists, product retail, education, or bridal teams.
Legacy Building
Ownership means you're building something with long-term value. It’s not just about today’s clients, it’s also about a brand that can grow, scale, or even be sold in the future.
The Main Differences of Salon Ownership
You’re Never Off the Clock
As a booth renter, when you're done for the day, you're done. As an owner, problems don’t wait for business hours. If the water heater breaks at 7 a.m. or an employee stylist needs support at 9 p.m.—it’s on you. If you have a toxic member on your team you will need to have tough conversations, even if you’ve checked out for your annual vacation. The list is never ending but those who thrive under pressure will love the challenge.
More Responsibility, Less Hair
You’ll likely spend less time doing hair and more time on systems, finances, repairs, marketing, and management. The work shifts from creative to operational. If you love doing hair all day, this can be an unexpected adjustment. This is by far the biggest learning curve for most. Your team will be counting on you to inspire and motivate them every day!
Risk and Pressure
Rent, payroll, taxes, bookkeeping, and compliance fall on your shoulders. You will likely want to delegate as much as possible to professionals in bookkeeping and payroll as you grow your team.
Surprising Similarities
You’re Still in Charge of Your Schedule
As both a renter and owner, you still get to decide when and how you work—though owners often find they’re working more, even if it’s behind the scenes.
Client Experience Still Comes First
Whether you rent or own, clients come to you for your skill, energy, and consistency. Ownership doesn't change that core responsibility.
You're Still Selling Yourself
Marketing, social media, consultations—those skills you sharpened as a renter will serve you well as an owner. The difference? Now you're also marketing the brand, team, and entire salon experience.
Salon ownership isn’t just a bigger space, it’s a bigger mission. If you feel called to create a space that reflects your values and leads others, it can be one of the most rewarding moves of your career. But go in with clear eyes, grounded expectations, and a deep love for both people and process. Whether you're behind the chair or behind the brand, the heart of the work stays the same: connection, care, and creativity. Just make sure you're ready to wear a few more hats!
