Working in the beauty industry is one of the most lucrative career options nowadays. The beauty sector is booming with job opportunities for trained professionals in every corner of the state. So, if you’re thinking about choosing your future profession or perhaps you want to make a change, today we’re going to discuss the top paying beauty careers in Illinois.
Why the Beauty Industry is Thriving
The beauty industry has always been a stable career path, however, in recent years it’s showing a particularly strong growth. This is partly due to the rising popularity of self-care trends, personalized grooming services and an increase in social media influence. Everyone wants to look and feel their best.
Naturally, beauty professionals have more options than ever. You can choose to work in a spa, rent a booth in an up-scale salon or even go completely mobile with your services.
The best part is that beauty careers offer flexibility. You can choose to work full-time or part-time, specialize in certain services and even set your own schedule. A job in the beauty sector can offer you control over your work-life balance and your earning potential.
Highest Paying Beauty Careers in Illinois
That being said, let’s break down which are actually the highest paying beauty careers in Illinois so you can get a clear idea of which path might be right for you. Keep in mind that your earning potential will depend on many factors such as your skill set, level of experience, location and business strategy.
Nevertheless, all of these careers offer room for growth and specialization.
| Career | Average Salary Range | High-End Potential | Notes |
| Cosmetologist Salary Illinois | $30,000 – $35,000 starting | $65,000+ | Higher earnings with specialty services like extensions, balayage, and bridal styling. |
| Esthetician Salary Illinois | $32,000 – $42,000 | $55,000+ | Boost income by offering advanced skincare, lash extensions, and retail product sales. |
| Barber Salary Illinois | $35,000 – $48,000 | $65,000+ | Demand is high for premium grooming services and precision fades. |
| Beauty Instructor | $38,000 – $52,000 | $60,000+ | Stable career path with potential for growth in beauty schools or private training. |
| Specialty Artist (Lash, Nail, PMU) | $37,000 – $48,000 | $75,000+ | High potential in niche markets with loyal clientele. |
Cosmetologist Salary Illinois
The cosmetologist salary in Illinois typically starts around $28,000 – $32,000 annually for entry-level positions. After a few years of experience and a loyal client base, you can expect to earn around $30,000 – $35,000 or more.
Meanwhile, top-tier cosmetologists who work in high-end salons or own their businesses can make $65,000+ annually, especially if they specialize in profitable services like:
- Hair coloring and balayage
- Hair extensions and treatments
- Bridal and event hairstyling
- Precision cuts for all hair types
At Cosmetology & Spa Academy, our cosmetology program covers everything from the latest cutting and coloring techniques to salon management and customer service. You’ll leave ready to not only style clients but also build a successful career that maximizes your income.
Esthetician Salary Illinois
Another substantial and rewarding career would be working as an esthetician. The esthetician salary in Illinois averages between $32,000 and $42,000 per year.
However, similarly to cosmetologists, estheticians who expand their services to include modern and advanced skincare treatments, permanent makeup, lash extensions or other medical spa services can surpass $55,000 annually.
Statistics show that high-end spa clients are willing to pay a premium for:
- Anti-aging facials and chemical peels
- Dermaplaning and microdermabrasion
- Lash and brow services
- Custom skincare consultations
Our esthetics program at Cosmetology & Spa Academy will fully prepare you for this growing market with hands-on training in both classic and advanced skincare services.
Moreover, you’ll also learn how to upsell treatments, recommend retail products and keep your appointment book full, all of which contribute to higher earnings.
Barber Salary Illinois
The barber salary in Illinois generally ranges $35,000 to $48,000 annually. Talented and skilled barbers, especially those who work in high-demand areas, can easily make $55,000 – $60,000 or more.
Keep in mind that especially in recent years, men’s grooming has surged in popularity. So, specialized services like straight razor shaves, beard sculpting and precision fades are highly sought-after.
Your earning potential as a barber significantly increases when you:
- Build a strong regular client base
- Offer premium grooming packages
- Sell hair and beard care products
- Work in high-traffic or upscale locations
Our barber program at CSA will teach you both traditional barbering skills and modern styling techniques, giving you the versatility to adapt to new trends and serve a wide and diverse range of clients.
Beauty Careers in Illinois with Long-Term Growth Potential
Beyond cosmetology, esthetics, and barbering, there are other beauty careers in Illinois that can be both profitable and fulfilling:
Some of the most popular beauty careers in Illinois are cosmetology, esthetics and barbering. However, there are other options that can be just as profitable and fulfilling.
Beauty Instructor
Working as a beauty instructor will allow you to help and inspire new professionals. You’ll get to share your knowledge and step back from the busy salon life, all while enjoying a stable income.
Specialty Artist
Special services which require specific techniques are always in demand. Lash technician, nail artist and permanent makeup artist are some of the highest paying niche careers nowadays.
Freelance/Mobile Beauty Professional
If you prefer to work mobile, becoming a freelancer may be the ideal option for you. This way you can choose to offer either in-home or on-location services for weddings, events, shows or corporate clients.
Choosing a career that aligns with your life goals and passion is important. When it comes to the beauty sector, the ability to adapt, specialize and market yourself will help you maximize your long-term earnings.
How to Increase Your Beauty Career Earnings
No matter which beauty career path you choose, there are proven ways to boost your income:
1. Continue Your Education
Trends in the beauty worlds evolve very quickly and clients are willing to pay more for cutting-edge services. Therefore, taking advanced training in various services such as microblading, balayage or advanced skincare will keep your skills in-demand and marketable.
2. Build a Personal Brand
Make sure to utilize social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok and Facebook to showcase your work. This will help you connect with potential clients and highlight your specialties to a wider audience.
3. Offer Premium Services and Packages
Bundling services or creating luxury treatment options can also significantly increase your average ticket price.
4. Develop Strong Client Relationships
Happy clients come back! And most importantly, they tell their friends. So, always remember that building loyalty leads to consistent income and word-of-mouth referrals which are crucial for the success of your career.
At CSA, we teach both the artistry and the business of beauty. That way, you graduate with the confidence to market yourself, attract clients and maximize your earning potential.
Get Started in One of the Highest Paying Beauty Careers in Illinois
Your path to a high-paying, fulfilling career starts with the right training. At Cosmetology & Spa Academy, we offer:
- Hands-on, real-world learning with clients
- Experienced instructors who’ve worked in the industry
- Supportive, inclusive environment where you can thrive
- Career placement assistance to help you land your first job
Email: info@csa.edu
Locations: Crystal Lake, Elgin, Rockford, Schaumburg
Phone: 815-455-5900
Take the first step toward your dream career today. Book a tour or apply to one of our programs in cosmetology, barbering, esthetics or beauty instruction and start building a successful future in the Illinois beauty industry.
