A perfect pedicure is an art form, performed by a trained nail technician who has been educated in assisting clients, whether they’re in need of an elegant everyday look or an exceptional event-of-a lifetime appearance. In today’s world of nails, there are artists who treat nail design the same way a famous painter would approach their own work. Other nail technicians focus on manicures, pedicures, and basic nail polish and applications.
If you want to learn what you can earn in this field, there are several ways you can get more information. First, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the agency that tracks job data for the United States, has data you can use to understand nail technician salary possibilities. They currently estimate the average median pay for manicurists and pedicurists at $22,150 ($10.65 per hour) annually (BLS, 2017). However, this can vary, depending on where you live, what kind of salon you work at, and what kinds of nail services you provide. You might also learn how to apply makeup or style hair, which can increase your earning potential as well.
Also, many nail techs work for themselves, or work part-time, which can impact your salary potential. Here are the top paying states for manicurist and pedicurist jobs, according to the BLS:
- Minnesota – $32,690
- Iowa – $31,040
- Washington – $30,650
- District of Columbia (D.C.) – $30,620
- South Dakota – $29,590
Qualified nail technicians can be highly valuable to busy professionals who have to look their best in their careers. In today’s fast-paced world, many beauty-conscious individuals don’t have the time or patience to do their own nails and few women would turn down a day at the spa. These days, recent fluctuations in the economy have resulted in many people choosing a day at the spa over the usual two-week vacation.
In recent years, nail care has blossomed into an industry all its own. Cosmetologists may still receive training in nail care, but pedicures and manicures are not just “bonus services” offered by your hairdressers anymore. With specialized services like extensions, airbrushing, sculpting and marbleizing free edges, aspiring nail technicians must attend an accredited nail tech school before they can be considered for the licensure exam.
The growth of opportunities for nail techs is expected to continue growing in the coming years. The BLS predicts a 12% growth for manicurist and pedicurist jobs between 2016-2026 (BLS, 2017). This is almost double the average growth predicted for all occupations combined that the BLS tracks. Be sure to ask what the employment rate looks like in your area before you enroll in nail tech classes.
Nail Technicians Work Hard for the Money
Nail tech school students will receive vital training in business, marketing and communication skills, essential tools for advancing your nail tech career. A nail technician’s salary very much depends on clients who are so pleased with the services that they return again and again, and even spread the word within their social networks. For this reason, it’s very important to make connections on a personal level with your clients, in addition to providing smudge-free high-quality “manis and pedis.”
Are you saying, “I’m ready to find a nail school near me?” Use our handy list of nail tech schools and find out what it takes to get licensed in your state. We recommend requesting information from all the nail schools in your area. This will help you determine which program is right for you. There can be differences in time of completion, financial aid options, and class schedules. By understanding all your options, you can make the most informed decision.