Booth Rent vs. Commission: Which Hairstylist Model Fits You Best?
Deciding between booth rental and commission isn’t just about money—it’s about lifestyle, goals, and how you want to grow behind the chair. At Katie Blue Salon, we proudly offer both models, because we know that no two stylists are the same—and your path should match your priorities.
Whether you crave independence or love the support of a team, here's a breakdown to help you figure out which setup fits you best.
💸 Financial Structure
Booth Rent Pros:
Predictable rent: You know what you owe each week/month.
You keep 100% of what you earn after expenses.
Great for experienced stylists with full books.
Booth Rent Cons:
You pay rent whether you're booked or not.
Supplies, tools, and backbar are all out of pocket.
Slow weeks can hit harder financially.
Commission Pros:
No overhead costs—backbar, marketing, and tools are provided.
Pay is performance-based, with earning potential that grows as your book fills.
No pressure to cover rent during slow seasons or vacations.
Commission Cons:
Your earnings are a percentage of what you bring in.
Less financial control compared to running your own mini business.
🧴 Supplies & Inventory
Booth Rent:
You’re running your own setup, so all tools, color, and retail inventory are your responsibility. This gives you full control over brands—but comes with higher costs.
Commission:
Everything is provided—from color lines to foil. That means less out-of-pocket spending and no late-night restocking runs.
📈 Clientele & Marketing
Booth Rent:
You’re in charge of growing and retaining your clientele. If you love being your own brand and enjoy social media, this might be a great fit.
Commission:
Marketing, advertising, and online booking are handled for you. A good option if you'd rather spend your energy on clients than on Canva and hashtags.
🎓 Education & Career Growth
Booth Rent:
You choose when and where to invest in education. Total freedom, but also total cost.
Commission:
At Katie Blue, commission stylists receive access to continued education, in-salon training, and trend-focused classes—all included.
🤝 Work Culture & Support
Booth Rent:
You’ve got full autonomy, but that also means less built-in collaboration. Great for self-motivated stylists who love solo work.
Commission:
You’re part of a team. From brainstorming color formulas to sharing content ideas, the salon culture is collaborative and community-driven.
🧘♀️ Work-Life Balance
Booth Rent:
Flexible scheduling and full control over your hours. But you're also the one handling rebooking, inventory, and every little task.
Commission:
Schedules are built around availability and client demand, but the admin work is off your plate. More focus on hair, less juggling.
✨ Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Booth rental offers freedom and ownership. Commission offers support and structure. At Katie Blue Salon, we offer both—because your career should grow in the direction you choose.
If you're unsure where you fit, let’s talk. We’re here to help you build a career that works for your life—whether that means running your own chair or growing with a commission-based team.
-Stef