Hair Salon: Equipment Budget

This article was written by our expert who is surveying the industry and constantly updating the business plan for a hair salon.

Who wrote this content?

The Dojo Business Team

A team of financial experts, consultants, and writers

We're a team of finance experts, consultants, market analysts, and specialized writers dedicated to helping new entrepreneurs launch their businesses. We help you avoid costly mistakes by providing detailed business plans, accurate market studies, and reliable financial forecasts to maximize your chances of success from day one—especially in the hair salon market.

What type of services will your salon offer that directly influence the equipment needed?

Your salon's service menu determines every major equipment purchase and shapes your entire setup strategy.

Core services including cutting, coloring, washing, styling, and drying require basic equipment: styling chairs, shampoo stations, hooded or handheld dryers, color processing equipment, flat and curling irons, clippers, and professional combs and brushes. These form the foundation of any hair salon operation and represent your minimum equipment investment.

Expanded offerings such as hair spa treatments, scalp therapies, extensions, chemical straightening, or waxing services significantly increase your equipment requirements. You'll need steamers, specialized color processors, treatment machines, waxing units, additional trolleys, professional lamps, and expanded storage solutions.

The exact equipment mix ties directly to your finalized service list from day one. A salon focusing solely on cuts and basic color will have different needs than one offering premium treatments and specialized services. Each additional service category typically adds $500 to $2,000 in specialized equipment costs.

You'll find detailed market insights in our hair salon business plan, updated every quarter.

How many styling stations, shampoo stations, and dryers do you need to meet expected client demand?

Mid-sized hair salons typically operate with 5-8 styling stations, 2-3 shampoo stations, and 2-3 dryer units to maintain efficient client flow.

The standard ratio follows a 3:1 relationship—three styling stations per one shampoo station. This configuration prevents bottlenecks during peak hours and ensures smooth transitions between services. Each styling station should accommodate one dedicated stylist during busy periods.

Dryer placement depends on your service mix. Salons focusing on cuts and quick styling need fewer dryers, while those emphasizing chemical processes, treatments, and formal styling require more drying capacity. Plan for at least one dryer per two styling stations as a baseline.

Your expected daily client volume directly impacts these numbers. A salon serving 40-60 clients daily needs the full 5-8 station setup, while smaller operations serving 20-30 clients can start with 3-5 styling stations and 1-2 shampoo stations.

This is one of the strategies explained in our hair salon business plan.

What is the projected number of staff members and how many sets of tools and equipment will each need?

A mid-sized hair salon typically employs 5-8 stylists plus 1-2 assistants or receptionists for optimal operation.

Each stylist requires their own complete tool set including professional scissors, clippers, brushes, combs, sectioning clips, aprons, and gloves. Individual tool sets typically cost $150-$400 per stylist, depending on quality levels and brand preferences.

Larger electric equipment like steamers, color processors, and specialized treatment machines can be shared among staff members. Plan for one color processor per 3-4 stylists and one steamer per 4-5 stylists to avoid scheduling conflicts during busy periods.

Support staff need different equipment: receptionists require booking systems and payment processing equipment, while assistants need cleaning supplies, towel management systems, and basic styling tools for prep work.

Which equipment items are considered essential at opening and which can be added later as the salon grows?

What is the average cost range for high-quality professional salon chairs, wash basins, and hair dryers in today's market?

Professional salon chairs range from $250 to $400 per chair for high-quality units with ergonomic design and 360-degree swivel functionality.

These chairs must withstand daily use from multiple clients while providing comfort during extended service sessions. Premium features include hydraulic height adjustment, reclining capabilities, durable upholstery, and stable base construction. Investing in quality chairs reduces replacement costs and enhances client satisfaction.

Wash basins and shampoo units cost between $250 and $600 per unit, with reclining chairs and adjustable positioning. Higher-end models include neck support cushions, ceramic bowls, and integrated spray systems. Plumbing-ready units simplify installation but may require professional hookup services.

Hair dryers, including both hooded and bonnet styles, range from $120 to $300 per unit. Freestanding models offer flexibility in salon layout, while chair-mounted options save space. Professional dryers provide consistent heat distribution, multiple speed settings, and timer functions for precise styling control.

We cover this exact topic in the hair salon business plan.

What are the estimated costs for specialized equipment such as color processors, steamers, or hair treatment machines?

Specialized equipment costs vary significantly based on features and quality levels, with color processors ranging from $120 to $900 and steamers from $150 to $600.

Entry-level color processors provide basic heat and timing functions suitable for standard coloring services. Mid-range units ($300-$600) offer programmable settings, digital displays, and multiple client capacity. Premium processors ($600-$900) include advanced temperature control, automated timing cycles, and enhanced client comfort features.

Professional steamers cost between $150 and $600, depending on capacity and features. Basic rolling steamers serve individual clients, while larger units accommodate multiple simultaneous treatments. High-end steamers include ozone functionality, adjustable height, and digital controls for precise treatment parameters.

Hair treatment machines for deep conditioning, scalp therapy, and specialized services range from $300 to $2,000. These units often serve multiple purposes and can justify their cost through premium service offerings and increased client retention rates.

What is the budget allocation for small but necessary tools like scissors, clippers, brushes, and irons?

Small tool budgets typically range from $150 to $400 per stylist, covering all essential cutting, styling, and finishing implements.

Professional scissors represent the largest individual expense at $50-$150 per pair, with most stylists requiring 2-3 different types: cutting shears, thinning shears, and texturing scissors. High-quality scissors maintain sharpness longer and provide better cutting precision, directly impacting service quality.

Clippers and trimmers cost $30-$80 per set, with cordless professional models commanding premium prices. Include multiple blade guards, maintenance oils, and replacement parts in your initial purchase. Most salons need 3-5 clipper sets to accommodate multiple stylists and service types.

Brushes, combs, sectioning clips, flat irons, and curling irons typically add $70-$170 per stylist set. These tools require regular replacement due to wear and sanitation requirements. Factor in ongoing replacement costs of approximately 20-30% annually for consumable items.

What are the installation, delivery, and assembly costs typically associated with salon equipment purchases?

Professional delivery, installation, and assembly services average $1,000 to $2,500 for a complete mid-sized salon setup, including plumbing connections and heavy furniture placement.

Plumbing installations for shampoo stations represent the largest installation expense, typically requiring licensed professionals for proper water supply and drainage connections. Basic plumbing hookups cost $200-$400 per station, while complex installations with specialized drainage may reach $600-$800 per station.

Furniture assembly and positioning services typically charge $50-$100 per major piece, including chairs, stations, and storage units. Many suppliers include basic assembly in their delivery charges, but clarify these details before purchase to avoid unexpected costs.

Additional post-installation services include equipment calibration, staff training on new devices, and disposal of packaging materials. Allocate an extra 10-15% buffer above quoted installation costs for unexpected complications or additional work requirements.

How much should be allocated for warranties, maintenance contracts, and repair contingencies?

Maintenance and warranty costs typically range from $300 to $1,200 annually for comprehensive service coverage, depending on equipment value and service scope.

Extended warranties on major equipment like chairs, dryers, and processing machines typically cost 8-15% of the equipment's purchase price annually. These warranties cover mechanical failures, electrical issues, and normal wear-and-tear repairs that exceed manufacturer coverage.

Preventive maintenance contracts help avoid costly emergency repairs and extend equipment lifespan. Monthly maintenance visits for cleaning, calibration, and minor adjustments typically cost $50-$150 per visit, depending on equipment complexity and service requirements.

Emergency repair contingencies should account for 2-3% of total equipment value annually. This fund covers unexpected breakdowns, replacement parts, and urgent service calls that occur outside regular maintenance schedules.

What financing or leasing options are currently available for salon equipment and what are their pros and cons?

It's a key part of what we outline in the hair salon business plan.

How much working capital should remain after the equipment purchase to ensure smooth operations in the first months?

Maintain at least 3-6 months of core operating expenses as working capital after equipment purchases, typically $25,000 to $70,000 for a mid-sized hair salon.

This working capital covers rent, payroll, product inventory, utilities, insurance, and marketing expenses during the critical launch period when revenue may be inconsistent. New salons often experience a 2-4 month ramp-up period before reaching sustainable client volume.

Payroll represents the largest ongoing expense, typically accounting for 40-60% of monthly operating costs. Factor in stylist wages, benefits, payroll taxes, and support staff compensation when calculating your working capital requirements.

Product inventory and supplies require significant upfront investment, often $3,000-$8,000 for initial stock. Include hair care products, coloring supplies, styling products, cleaning materials, and disposable items in your working capital calculations.

Marketing and promotional expenses during the launch phase typically require $2,000-$5,000 monthly for effective client acquisition. This includes advertising, promotional pricing, grand opening events, and digital marketing campaigns.

What is the realistic total budget needed for all essential equipment to open a fully functioning salon today?

A comprehensive equipment budget for a fully functioning mid-sized hair salon ranges from $25,000 to $60,000, including all essential furniture, equipment, installation, and initial contingencies.

Basic salon setup with 5 styling stations, 2 shampoo stations, essential tools, and standard equipment typically requires $25,000-$35,000. This includes economy to mid-range equipment suitable for startup operations and covers all basic service capabilities.

Premium salon setup with high-end equipment, additional specialized machines, enhanced comfort features, and comprehensive tool sets ranges from $45,000-$60,000. This investment level supports immediate premium service offerings and enhanced client experience.

Include an additional 20% contingency fund above your base equipment budget for unexpected costs, installation complications, additional tools, and immediate operational supplies. This buffer helps avoid cash flow disruptions during the critical opening phase.

Leasing arrangements can reduce initial cash outlay to $8,000-$15,000 upfront while maintaining monthly payments of $800-$2,000, depending on equipment selection and lease terms.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are encouraged to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We accept no liability for any actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. Gloss Genius - Hair Salon Equipment List
2. Braids and Freckles - Hair Salon Equipment Checklist
3. Zolmi - Hair Salon Equipment List
4. Salon Serve - Essential Beauty Salon Equipment
5. Clover - Essential Equipment for Opening Day
6. Dojo Business - Hair Salon Workstations
7. Buy Rite Beauty - Salon Shampoo Area Ideas
8. DIR Store - Salon Chairs
9. Salon Services - Backwash Units
10. Zolmi - Salon Expenses List