While beauty and barber industries are experiencing continued growth; Vagaro, the leading software for businesses in beauty, wellness, and fitness, recently released their Vantage Report which explores this being driven by evolving trends, digital transformation, and shifting consumer behaviors.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow 7% through 2033—faster than the average for most occupations.

This translates to an estimated 45,300 new jobs over the next decade, with around 89,100 job openings annually due to retirements and career transitions.

The growth is fueled by several key factors. Despite economic fluctuations, people continue to prioritize looking good and feeling their best, a phenomenon known as the “lipstick effect.” As the U.S. population grows, so does the demand for beauty services.

According to the 2025 Vagaro Vantage Report, services like lash and brow treatments have seen a surge, accounting for 71% of searches on the Vagaro Marketplace. Services requiring regular maintenance, such as lash fills and brow touch-ups, provide a steady stream of business for beauty professionals.

Social media platforms have amplified the spread of beauty trends, sparking viral interest in styles such as "expensive brunette" hair colors, nail art, and scalp facials. Additionally, the beauty industry has become more inclusive, with many businesses increasingly catering to neurodivergent clients and the LGBTQIA+ community, creating safe and welcoming spaces.

The barbering industry specifically is evolving beyond traditional haircuts to include services such as skincare, scalp treatments, men’s grooming, and specialized color services.

This expansion creates more job opportunities and increases earning potential for skilled professionals. Celebrity barber, Vagaro Icon Coach, and Founder & CEO of Popular Nobody John Mosley, highlights this shift: “There is a rise in different hair services being sought after, beyond just simple haircuts.”

As the industry grows, so does the competition. Beauty professionals can capitalize on this growth by offering apprenticeships and mentorships, helping to train the next generation of talent.

Fresh talent is also an opportunity for salons to train professionals without pre-existing habits, ensuring high-quality service. Continuing education, such as courses in cutting, coloring, or business management, keeps professionals competitive and current with industry trends.

Technology is playing a vital role in the industry’s growth. Digital tools like AI, automation, and booking systems help salons scale and attract clients. According to the Vagaro Vantage Report, two-thirds of beauty professionals say AI streamlines their operations, while 75% prioritize scalability.

The barber & beauty industry has proven its resilience and growth, offering exciting opportunities for ambitious professionals. Now is the time to embrace new trends, refine skills, and grow in this thriving industry.

About Vagaro

Vagaro is the leading salon, spa, and fitness software, serving hundreds of thousands of professionals worldwide. Vagaro simplifies business management, credit card and payment processing, and makes it easy for businesses to grow their clientele on a modern consumer marketplace. Vagaro's a-la-carte options and affordable pricing provide a unique level of scalability, making it suitable for businesses of all sizes, from the solopreneur to enterprise franchises. Simple, innovative, and reliable, Vagaro empowers beauty and wellness professionals to excel in a digital age. Visit Vagaro Pro to learn more.

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Employment for barbers, hairstylists, and cosmetologists is projected to grow 7% through 2033—faster than the average for most occupations.