Best Beauty Salon Franchise Opportunities for 2025

The beauty and wellness industry continues to thrive as people prioritize self-care and grooming. Investing in a salon franchise offers a lucrative opportunity to enter this dynamic market, backed by established brand recognition and proven business models.

This article explores the top salon franchise opportunities for 2025, providing key insights into industry trends and each brand’s unique advantages. With this guide, you can make an informed decision about the best franchise to suit your entrepreneurial goals.

What is a beauty salon franchise?

Beauty salons or salon franchises are also referred to as beauty & personal care franchises. The beauty and personal care industry refers to the sector of business that involves the production, marketing, and sale of products and services related to enhancing one’s appearance, personal grooming, and overall well-being. This industry encompasses a wide range of products and services designed to cater to individual beauty and self-care needs.

Beauty salon franchises have evolved into diverse business models, ranging from full-service salons to niche concepts like blow-dry bars and men’s grooming. With a history rooted in offering accessible beauty services, these franchises leverage established brand reputations and streamlined operations. Many brands cater to a loyal customer base while embracing innovations like online booking and subscription memberships, making the salon industry a resilient and profitable investment choice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

How to open a beauty salon franchise?

Opening a salon franchise allows you to operate a business under the guidance of a well-known brand, benefiting from its established reputation and operational expertise. The journey involves researching franchise opportunities, applying to join the brand, arranging financing, and completing comprehensive training provided by the franchisor. Tools like the Vetted Biz franchise opportunities tool can help identify top salon franchises. After securing your location, you’ll launch your salon with ongoing support from the franchisor. For additional resources, consider exploring organizations like the International Franchise Association.

Beauty salon franchise market industry statistics

The salon industry is part of the $500 billion global beauty market, with consistent growth driven by demand for personal care services. In the U.S., salons generate an estimated $50 billion annually, with franchise models contributing significantly to the sector’s revenue due to their scalability and brand recognition.

The average annual revenue for a salon franchise varies widely, ranging between $250,000 and $1 million, depending on factors like location, services offered, and brand reputation. Many franchises report steady revenue streams due to recurring customer visits and loyalty programs, making the sector attractive to investors.

Investors can expect payback periods for salon franchises to range between 3-5 years, with some lower-cost models achieving profitability even sooner. This estimate depends on the franchisor’s support, operational efficiency, and market demand in the selected location.

The sales-to-investment ratio for salon franchises typically falls between 1.5x and 3x, indicating the sector’s potential for high returns. These numbers reflect strong consumer demand and operational strategies that maximize revenue while managing costs effectively.

Startup costs for salon franchises generally range from $75,000 to $500,000, depending on the franchise, facility size, and equipment requirements. This cost often includes initial fees, training, and opening expenses, allowing entrepreneurs to join an established brand with a ready-made business framework.

Metric – Average Estimate

• Payback Period: 3-5 years
• Sales-to-Investment Ratio: 1.5x-3x
• Franchise Cost: $75,000-$500,000

Salon franchise segments

When people think of salon franchises, hair salons often come to mind, but the category encompasses a wide range of beauty and wellness services. These franchises tap into the booming personal care industry, which extends beyond hair care to include nails, skincare, massage, and more. Investing in a salon franchise means tapping into diverse customer needs and a larger market opportunity within the beauty and wellness space.

• Nail Salons Focused on manicures, pedicures, and nail art, these salons cater to clients seeking stylish nails and relaxing hand and foot care. Many franchises also offer add-on services like gel applications and nail enhancements, providing multiple revenue streams.
• Beauty Salons These full-service establishments cover haircuts, makeup, skincare, and more. Beauty salons appeal to clients looking for a one-stop shop for their personal care needs, offering both recurring services and special occasion packages.
• Massage Studios and Wellness Spas Offering massage therapy, facials, and body treatments, these franchises attract clients prioritizing relaxation and self-care. Many incorporate wellness trends like aromatherapy and holistic skincare, expanding their appeal.
• Waxing and Brow Studios Specializing in hair removal, eyebrow shaping, and lash extensions, these studios target clients seeking quick, efficient grooming. The rise in demand for semi-permanent makeup and lash treatments has made this category increasingly popular.
• Men’s Grooming Salons Focused on men’s haircuts, beard grooming, and skincare, these salons offer services tailored specifically for male clients. They combine traditional barbershop vibes with modern trends, catering to the growing men’s grooming market.

20 best beauty salon franchises

Vetted Biz has curated a list of the top 20 salon franchises, ranked by their 3-year growth. This list showcases a variety of franchise models, from full-service beauty salons to niche concepts like waxing studios and men’s grooming salons, offering diverse investment opportunities tailored to different markets and entrepreneurial goals.

1. Sit Still

Sit Still Kids Salon is a fast-growing children’s haircare franchise that creates a fun and engaging environment for kids while offering top-notch grooming services. With 17 franchised locations in the U.S. and a unique, modern approach to children’s salons, Sit Still has become a trusted brand for parents seeking high-quality haircare for their little ones.

The franchise boasts an impressive 3-year unit growth rate of 1600%, reflecting its rising popularity. Franchisees benefit from comprehensive support, including training, marketing assistance, and operational guidance. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $32,500, an estimated total investment ranging from $125,000 to $401,000, and a 6% royalty fee. This makes Sit Still a promising opportunity in the family-focused beauty segment. To learn more about Sit Still’s costs, fee, & FDD, check out this article.

2. Sugaring NYC

Sugaring NYC is a rapidly expanding beauty franchise specializing in organic hair removal through the ancient art of sugaring—a natural, less painful alternative to traditional waxing. Since its inception in 2014, the brand has grown to 117 U.S. locations, with 107 franchised units, reflecting a remarkable 3-year unit growth rate of 873%.

Franchisees benefit from a comprehensive support system, including training, marketing assistance, and operational guidance. The financial requirements are an initial franchise fee of $45,000, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $199,000 to $301,000, and a royalty fee of 5%. This investment offers an opportunity to join a leading brand in the natural beauty industry.

3. Lash and Company

Lash and Company is a rapidly expanding med spa franchise offering a comprehensive range of beauty services, including eyelash extensions, injectables, skin rejuvenation, hair removal, and permanent makeup. Established in 2010, the brand has grown to 10 U.S. locations, with 8 franchised units, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 700%.

The franchise model provides extensive support, encompassing training, marketing assistance, and operational guidance. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $45,000, with a total initial investment ranging from $227,000 to $550,000, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a dynamic and growing brand in the thriving beauty industry.

4. Tune Up The Manly Salon

Tune Up The Manly Salon is a men’s grooming franchise offering services such as haircuts, beard trims, massages, manicures, pedicures, and boot shines. Established in 2016, the brand combines traditional barbershop elements with modern amenities, creating a unique experience for clients.

The franchise has expanded to 50 U.S. locations, with 46 franchised units, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 360%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $40,000, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $198,500 to $355,000, and a royalty fee of 5%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a growing brand in the men’s grooming industry.

5. IV Nutrition

IV Nutrition is a leading health and wellness franchise specializing in intravenous (IV) therapy to deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and hydration directly into the bloodstream. This method ensures maximum nutrient absorption, catering to clients seeking enhanced energy, improved immunity, and overall vitality.

The franchise has experienced significant growth, with 30 U.S. locations—22 of which are franchised—achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 340%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $49,500, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $198,000 to $325,000, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a rapidly expanding sector within the health and wellness industry.

6. Perspire Sauna Studio

Perspire Sauna Studio is a leading wellness franchise specializing in infrared sauna and red light therapy services. Founded in 2010, the brand offers a modern approach to traditional sauna experiences, promoting relaxation, detoxification, and overall well-being.

With 50 U.S. locations—44 of which are franchised—Perspire Sauna Studio has achieved a 3-year unit growth rate of 300%. The franchise model provides comprehensive support, including training, marketing assistance, and operational guidance. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $45,000, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $435,000 to $882,000, and a royalty fee of 6%. Check out this article to learn more about Perspire Sauna Studio ‘s costs, fee, & FDD.

7. Vio Med Spa

VIO Med Spa, founded in 2017, is a premier medical spa franchise offering a comprehensive range of wellness and aesthetic services, including skincare treatments, cosmetic health procedures, and personalized wellness programs. The brand emphasizes safety and quality, with staff undergoing rigorous training to meet national standards.

The franchise has expanded to 35 U.S. locations, 30 of which are franchised, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 275%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $50,000, with a total initial investment ranging from $942,000 to $1,329,000, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment provides entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a rapidly growing brand in the thriving medical spa industry.

8. House of Colour

House of Colour is a distinguished personal styling and image consulting franchise that empowers individuals to discover their optimal color palettes and personal styles. Founded in 1985 by image consultant Carolyn Miller in London, the brand utilizes scientific color analysis to enhance clients’ confidence and authenticity.

The franchise has experienced significant growth, with 266 franchised locations across the U.S. and a 3-year unit growth rate of 260%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $24,500, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $27,000 to $46,000, and a royalty fee of 4%. This low-cost investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a reputable brand in the personal styling industry.

9. Pure Sweat Float Studio

Pure Sweat Float Studio is a wellness franchise offering state-of-the-art infrared sauna and float therapy services. Founded in 2017, the brand focuses on holistic health, providing clients with relaxation and detoxification experiences.

The franchise has expanded to 10 U.S. locations, 7 of which are franchised, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 250%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $45,000, with a total initial investment ranging from $457,000 to $674,000, and a royalty fee of 6%.

10. Restore Hyper Wellness + Cryotherapy

Restore Hyper Wellness is a leading wellness franchise offering a comprehensive suite of services, including cryotherapy, IV drip therapy, infrared sauna, and red light therapy. Founded in 2015, the brand focuses on proactive health solutions to enhance overall well-being.

The franchise has expanded to 228 U.S. locations, with 214 franchised units, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 235%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $44,500, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $817,674 to $1,289,925, and a royalty fee of 8%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a rapidly growing brand in the wellness industry.

11. Drybar

Drybar is a prominent beauty franchise specializing in blowouts, offering clients a unique salon experience focused solely on hairstyling without cuts or color. Founded in 2010 by Alli Webb in Brentwood, California, Drybar has grown significantly, with 159 franchised locations across the U.S.

The franchise has achieved a 3-year unit growth rate of 200%, reflecting its popularity in the beauty industry. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $50,000, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $550,504 to $869,724, and a royalty fee of 7%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a well-established brand with a distinctive niche in the salon market. Check out this article to learn more about Drybar’s costs, fee, & FDD.

12. Idolize Brows and Beauty

Idolize Brows and Beauty is a growing spa franchise specializing in a wide range of beauty services, including eyebrow and facial threading, lash extensions, facials, full-body waxing, and brow and lash enhancements. Established in 2009, the brand emphasizes affordable luxury and caters to clients seeking efficient, high-quality beauty treatments without the need for appointments.

The franchise has expanded to 11 U.S. locations, with 5 franchised units, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 150%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $49,500, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $380,704 to $460,303, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a dynamic brand in the thriving beauty industry.

13. Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids

Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids is a leading children’s hair salon franchise that transforms haircuts into fun experiences for kids aged 0-14. Established in 2001, the brand offers themed chairs, entertainment options like Netflix and Xbox, and a Tween Lounge for older children, ensuring an enjoyable visit for both kids and parents.

The franchise has expanded to 143 U.S. locations, with 142 franchised units, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 106%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $40,000, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $189,415 to $299,360, and a royalty fee of $1,000 to $1,750 per month. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a well-established brand in the children’s haircare industry.

15. Diesel Barbershop

Diesel Barbershop is a modern men’s grooming franchise that blends the classic barbershop experience with contemporary amenities. Established in 2011 in San Antonio, Texas, Diesel Barbershop offers services such as haircuts, shaves, beard trims, and shoulder massages, all within a relaxed environment featuring sports on TV, video games, and complimentary beverages.

The franchise has expanded to 31 U.S. locations, with 27 franchised units, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 59%. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $50,000, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $369,000 to $453,000, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a distinctive brand in the men’s grooming industry. Read more about Diesel Barbershop’s costs, fee, & FDD here.

16. Radiant Waxing

Radiant Waxing, formerly known as LunchboxWax, is a premier full-service waxing salon franchise specializing in speed-wax services for both men and women. Established in 2011 and franchising since 2013, the brand has expanded to 65 U.S. locations, all franchised, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 48%.

Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $50,000, with a total initial investment ranging from $374,029 to $534,854, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a well-established brand in the growing beauty industry.

17. Deka Lash

Deka Lash is a prominent beauty franchise specializing in eyelash extensions and brow services. Founded in 2011, the brand has expanded to over 130 franchised locations across the U.S. and Canada, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 44%.

Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $59,900, with a total initial investment ranging from $285,900 to $449,350, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a leading brand in the rapidly growing lash extension industry.

18. True Rest

True REST Float Spa is a premier wellness franchise offering state-of-the-art flotation therapy designed to promote relaxation, alleviate pain, and enhance overall well-being. Clients float effortlessly in sensory deprivation pods filled with Epsom salt water, which helps reduce stress, improve sleep, and support recovery. Founded in 2010, True REST has quickly become a leader in the flotation therapy industry by delivering exceptional service and a unique spa experience.

The franchise has grown to 40 U.S. locations, with 36 franchised units, and achieved a 3-year unit growth rate of 44%. True REST provides comprehensive support to franchisees, including training, marketing resources, and operational guidance. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $39,950, with a total initial investment ranging from $416,297 to $924,112, and a 6% royalty fee. This investment allows entrepreneurs to join a growing wellness brand in a niche market that continues to attract health-conscious consumers.

19. Waxing the City

Waxing the City is a premier salon franchise specializing exclusively in body and facial waxing services for both men and women. Founded in 2003 in Colorado, the brand has expanded to over 150 franchised locations across the United States, achieving a 3-year unit growth rate of 39%.

Known for its exceptional quality and service, Waxing the City has built a loyal customer base by offering expert waxing in a welcoming and professional environment. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $42,500, with a total initial investment ranging from $325,393 to $603,879, and a royalty fee of 6%. This investment offers entrepreneurs the opportunity to join a well-established brand in the growing beauty industry.

20. The Ten Spot

The Ten Spot is a prominent beauty bar franchise offering a range of services, including manicures, pedicures, waxing, laser hair removal, and skincare treatments. Established in 2006, the brand has positioned itself as an “anti-spa,” blending luxury services with efficiency to cater to busy clients seeking high-quality beauty treatments.

With 4 U.S. locations, 3 of which are franchised, The Ten Spot has maintained a steady presence in the beauty industry. The franchise model provides comprehensive support, including site selection, training, marketing, and operational guidance. Financial requirements include an initial franchise fee of $50,000, an estimated total initial investment ranging from $335,000 to $524,000, and a royalty fee of 6%.

Conclusion

The beauty and wellness industry offers diverse opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs, and salon franchises remain a strong investment choice for 2025. From children’s hair salons to wellness-focused spas and men’s grooming studios, the sector caters to a broad range of client needs, ensuring steady demand. With an average payback period of 3-5 years and sales-to-investment ratios of 1.5x to 3x, these franchises demonstrate profitability and resilience. Startup costs vary widely, ranging from $75,000 to $1.3 million, making it accessible for various investment levels. Franchisees benefit from brand recognition, franchisor support, and innovative practices like online booking and memberships, enabling scalable and structured operations. By investing in a salon franchise, entrepreneurs can tap into a thriving market while enhancing lives through self-care services. With the right partnership and research, 2025 could mark the start of a rewarding journey in this growing industry.