The Pros and Cons of Chain Salon Hairstylist, Commission Stylist, and Chair Rental Stylist: When to Level Up Your Career

Working in the hair industry is a wild ride. I’ve been through the trenches, trying out different salon setups, and I want to share what I’ve learned about the pros and cons of being a chain salon hairstylist, a commission stylist, and a chair rental stylist. Each path has its perks and pitfalls, and knowing when to push yourself to the next phase can make all the difference in your career and income. So, let’s dive in and get real about what each role means, why more responsibility often means more money, and how to know when it’s time to shake things up.

Chain Salon Hairstylist: Stability with Some Strings Attached

Starting out, many hairstylists find themselves in chain salons. These places are everywhere, and they offer a steady paycheck, which is a huge relief when you’re just getting your feet wet. The biggest upside? You don’t have to worry about building your own client base from scratch. The salon usually has a steady flow of walk-ins and marketing that brings people through the door.

But here’s the catch: you’re often working at a hourly rate,, and the salon takes a big cut. Plus, you have to follow their rules, use their products, and stick to their pricing. That can feel limiting if you’re someone who wants to experiment with unique cutting techniques or custom color work. Also, the schedule can be rigid, and you might have to work evenings or weekends without much say.

Pros:

• Steady income and benefits (sometimes)

• Built-in client flow

• Training and mentorship opportunities

• Less responsibility for business management

  
  

Cons:

• Limited creative freedom

• Hourly rate makes you have to work more hours

• Strict salon policies

• Less control over schedule

  
  

If you’re just starting out or prefer a more structured environment, chain salons can be a great place to learn the ropes. But if you crave more control and higher earnings, you might start feeling boxed in after a while.

Busy chain salon with hairstylists at work

Commission Stylist: Balancing Freedom and Pressure

Moving up, many hairstylists transition to commission-based roles in independent salons. Here, you usually get a higher percentage of your service fees, which means more money in your pocket if you hustle. You also get more say in the products you use and the services you offer, which is a big win if you want to specialize in certain techniques.

But with greater freedom comes greater responsibility. You’re expected to build and maintain your own client base, and sometimes even help with marketing. The pressure to perform can be intense, especially if the salon expects you to hit certain sales targets or bring in new clients regularly.

Pros:

• Higher commission rates

• More creative control

• Ability to build your personal brand

• Opportunity to upsell products and services

  
  

Cons:

• Income can be inconsistent

• Pressure to meet sales goals

• Need to manage your own marketing and client retention

• Can't create your own schedule

  
  

I remember when I made this jump. It was thrilling but scary. Suddenly, I was responsible for my own success. But the extra money and freedom made it worth it. If you’re ready to take charge and don’t mind the hustle, this phase can be incredibly rewarding.

Chair Rental Stylist: The Entrepreneurial Leap

Now, let’s talk about chair rental stylists. This is where you become your own boss. You rent a chair or booth in a salon and run your own business. You set your prices, choose your products, and control your schedule. The potential to earn more is huge because you keep 100% of what you make, minus rent and expenses.

But this freedom comes with a heavy load. You’re responsible for everything - booking clients, marketing, bookkeeping, taxes, and buying your own supplies. It’s not just about cutting hair anymore; it’s about running a business. If you’re not prepared for that, it can quickly become overwhelming.

Pros:

• Full control over your business

• Keep all your earnings (minus rent)

• Flexibility in schedule and services

• Ability to create a unique client experience

  
  

Cons:

• No guaranteed income

• All business responsibilities fall on you

• Need strong marketing and business skills

• Upfront costs for supplies and rent

  
  

I took this leap after years in commission roles. It was a game-changer. I could finally focus on the specialized hair services I loved and build a loyal client base. But I won’t sugarcoat it - it took grit and a lot of learning to get there.

Hairstylist’s chair and tools in a rented salon space

More Responsibility Means More Money - But Is It Always Worth It?

Here’s the truth: as you move from chain salon hairstylist to commission stylist to chair rental stylist, your responsibilities increase. You’re not just cutting hair anymore; you’re managing a business, building relationships, and constantly marketing yourself. And yes, the money goes up too.

But more responsibility isn’t for everyone. Some people thrive with the structure and support of a chain salon. Others love the balance of commission work. And some are born entrepreneurs who want full control. The key is knowing what you want from your career and lifestyle.

If you’re feeling burnt out, underpaid, or stuck, it might be time to challenge yourself and move to the next phase. But don’t rush. Make sure you have the skills, mindset, and support to handle the change.

When to Know It’s Time to Change and Challenge Yourself

So, how do you know when it’s time to level up? Here are some signs I’ve learned to watch for:

• You’re bored or unchallenged. If you’re doing the same thing every day and not growing, it’s a red flag.

• You want more creative freedom. Feeling stifled by salon rules or product restrictions means you’re ready for more control.

• Your income feels capped. If you’re working hard but not seeing the financial rewards, it might be time to take on more responsibility.

• You crave flexibility. Wanting to set your own hours or choose your clients is a sign you’re ready for chair rental or your own business.

• You’re ready to learn business skills. If you want to run your own show, you need to be prepared to handle marketing, finances, and client management.

  
  

Making a change is scary, but it’s also exciting. Growth happens outside your comfort zone. If you’re ready to take the leap, start small. Build your client base, learn about business management, and connect with other stylists who’ve made the jump.

Remember, success looks different for everyone. Whether you thrive in a chain salon or run your own chair rental business, the key is finding what fits your goals and lifestyle.

If you’re in Des Moines and looking for specialized hair care, SP Salon is the place to be. They focus on unique cutting techniques and custom color work, plus a curated selection of professional hair products that help you keep your look fresh between visits. It’s a great example of how a salon can stand out by embracing creativity and quality.

Ready to take your hairstyling career to the next level? Whether you’re thinking about moving from a chain salon to commission or renting your own chair, remember: more responsibility can mean more money, but it also means more work. Choose the path that feels right for you and don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.

Your next phase is waiting. Are you ready to step into it?