Should Kids’ Haircuts Cost Less Than Adults? A Barber’s Guide to Kids’ Haircut Pricing
Robb Hanlon
One of the most common questions barbers and stylists ask is:
“How much should I charge for a kids haircut?”
And,
“Should kids’ haircuts be cheaper than adult cuts?”
When priced strategically, kids’ haircuts can become one of the most consistent and profitable services in your shop.
Let’s break it down.
1. The First Haircut Should Always Be an Upcharge
A child’s first haircut isn’t just a haircut—it’s a milestone experience.
First haircuts often require:
Extra time to build trust and comfort
Patience while the child adjusts to the chair
Gentle introductions to clippers, scissors, and tools
As a Kids’ Haircut Specialist, you’re taking extra time and effort to be patient and gentle while getting to know your new kid client. You’re not just cutting their hair, you’re creating an intentional, positive first experience, which takes effort and time.
If you include:
A milestone photo opportunity
A small keepsake (like a lock of hair bag or toy to take home)
That added value should be reflected in your pricing.
💡 First Haircut Tip: Charge a premium for milestone appointments, especially if you’re taking the extra time and effort to include keepsakes. Parents expect to pay more for meaningful experiences.
2️⃣ After the First Cut, Kids’ Haircuts Should Be Close to Adult Pricing
Once a child becomes familiar with the haircut process, kids’ haircuts should cost no less than $5 cheaper in comparison to adult haircuts, not drastically discounted.
Once they’re comfortable:
Kids’ haircuts should usually take 12–15 minutes
They should rarely exceed 20 minutes
They are simple, low-effort maintenance haircuts at young ages (1-5)
💡For Example: If an adult haircut cost is $40, a regular kids haircut should cost $35, and first haircut experience should cost $40+.
Properly priced kids’ cuts allow you to:
✔ Increase hourly revenue
✔ Build consistent family clientele
Two $35 kids haircuts makes an easy $70+ in half an hour or less!
3. Keep Young Kids’ Haircuts Short & Simple
For toddlers and young children ages 1-5, less is more. Complicated haircuts like skin fades and detailed designs can take longer and increase the risk of meltdowns.
For kids haircuts, always:
Aim for clean, simple, manageable styles
Keep appointments short, quick, and efficient
Focus on building comfort and confidence rather than a perfect haircut
If a parent requests a detailed or time-consuming style, remind them the importance of sticking to simple maintenance cuts until their child is older, or until they’re more comfortable with the haircut experience. If they insist, price it the same as an adult haircut.
Why Smart Kids Haircut Pricing Matters
Kids’ haircuts aren’t extra work—they’re long-term investments.
One positive kids’ haircut experience can turn into:
Dad booking with you
Siblings booking with you
Repeat appointments every 3–6 weeks
Word-of-mouth referrals from parents
Families are some of the most loyal clients in the industry.
Price accordingly.
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