What is the current estimate of hair salons in the United States?

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As a small business analyst researching the salon industry for a market entry strategy, I need an updated figure on the total number of hair salons operating in the United States as of late 2023 or early 2024. This should include all licensed establishments—whether independent boutiques, franchise locations, or salon chains—that offer primarily hair cutting, styling, coloring, and related services. Please provide the most recent reliable estimate from credible industry sources, along with any noted growth trends or regional concentration comparisons if available.

As of 2021, the most current comprehensive estimate from U.S. Census Bureau data indicates there were approximately 76,742 establishments classified under the hair and nail salons industry (NAICS 8121 – Beauty Salons) within the United States.

This figure includes:

  1. Single-location businesses and multi-location chains filing under the same NAICS code.
  2. Barber shops are excluded (covered under NAICS 812112).
  3. The data is derived from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Business Dynamics Statistics (BDS), which models annual counts using administrative records and survey data.

Additional Details:

  • Source: U.S. Census Bureau, Business Dynamics Statistics (BDS), accessed March 2024.
  • Year: Data reflects estimates for March 2021.
  • Definition: "Establishment" refers to a single physical business location (e.g., a single salon shop, one store within a chain).
  • Trend Context: This represents a decline from pre-pandemic levels (78,936 in 2020) due to COVID-19 closures and reduced demand.
  • Scope: Encompasses all businesses primarily engaged in cutting, coloring, styling, or shampooing hair.
  • Exclusions: Mobile salons, home-based stylists, and barbers (unless co-located in a beauty salon).

Note: Industry analysts (e.g., IBISWorld) estimate ~800,000 total beauty service establishments globally, but U.S.-specific data remains ~76,000–78,000 for NAICS 8121. Data is subject to revision as administrative reporting completes.

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Published: August 27, 2025