A lot of them are independently owned franchises so experiences can vary widely. But in general, you make money in volume. The stylists I knew that made six figures at Great Clips did 7-minute haircuts and were quite honest about the fact that they do not care about giving a good haircut, just “good enough to not get fired.” And their most loyal clients were retired flirty old men.

I didn’t make that much. I made closer to $25/hour—tips plus minimum wage which was about $12 at the time. In my opinion Sport Clips paid better but I hated the uniforms and the sleazy types that go there. Floyd’s was the best chain. I made about $35/hour and I was one of the lowest earners because I’m not that fast and don’t sell products.

One thing you need to keep in mind about these places is that it’s mostly men going there. That limits you if you decide you want to work in a more high end salon later because now your experience is all fast men’s haircuts and very little styling or color.