How Much Do Lash Techs Make in 2025? Average Earnings, Locations, and Tips to Boost Income

Eyelash extensions are a thriving beauty service with real money-making potential behind them. But how much do lash techs actually make? The answer varies widely depending on skill, location, business setup, and how well a tech attracts and keeps clients. Plus, things like pricing, client volume, service offerings, and marketing strategies can also influence a lash technician’s take-home earnings.

If you’re thinking about opening a lash business or wondering how your current earnings compare, pursuing a lash career can offer significant potential for growth and financial success.

Average Income for Lash Technicians

On average, lash technicians in the United States make between $26,000 and $84,000 per year, with the average being $53,087/yr.¹ This number shifts depending on whether the tech works in a salon, rents a booth, or runs an independent studio. Hourly or per-service rates also vary based on local demand and competition. Many lash techs earn between $20 and $50 per hour, but hourly rates can fluctuate depending on location, experience, and the type of services offered.

In cities with strong beauty markets and high cost of living, earnings tend to be higher, while smaller towns may offer lower pricing but steadier long-term client relationships. The income potential grows as a tech becomes faster, more skilled, and more confident in their pricing structure.

Key income factors:

• Location: Larger metro areas often support higher pricing and higher volume.

• Experience and speed: Faster appointment times mean more clients per day.

• Specialization: Volume and mega-volume artists command higher rates than classic-only techs.

• Business structure: Independent studio owners usually earn more than salon employees due to fewer commission splits. Working in a lash salon or lash studio can offer different benefits, such as job stability or commission structures, while self employment gives more autonomy but also more responsibility. Profits can vary greatly depending on whether a tech is self-employed, working in a lash salon, or part of a lash studio, as business expenses and commission rates impact take-home pay.

A lash tech’s income is rarely fixed. It expands with reputation, retention, consistency, and increasing skill level, which means there is room to grow once the fundamentals are in place.

Lash Tech Income by Experience Level

Earnings tend to increase as a lash tech sharpens their skills, speeds up their application time, and builds a loyal client base. The learning curve in lashing is real, and income reflects that progression. As you gain experience, it's important to adjust your financial goals and business strategies to better fit your evolving schedule and ambitions.

Remember, building a successful career in the lash industry takes time and dedication; it won't happen overnight. Stay patient, keep developing your skills, and your efforts will pay off in the long run.

Beginner / Newly Certified (0–6 months)

New lash techs often charge lower rates while they build confidence and refine their technique. Many start with classic sets only and may offer discounted services to attract clients. At this stage, income typically ranges from $15,000 to $35,000 per year, depending on how many clients they take and whether they’re working part-time or full-time.

Intermediate / Working Lash Artist (6 months–2 years)

With practice comes speed. Appointment times shorten, fills become more efficient, and pricing can increase. Many techs begin offering hybrid and volume sets at this stage. Income often rises into the $40,000 to $65,000 range as client retention grows and schedules begin to fill consistently.

Advanced / Master Lash Artist (2+ years)

Experienced techs with strong technical skills, signature styling, and consistent results can charge premium rates. At this level, loyal clients who return regularly for lash fills help create a steady, high income. Many also expand into teaching, mentorship, or private studio ownership. Master artists often earn $70,000 to $100,000+ annually, especially if they introduce additional revenue streams such as retail products or specialized services.

Progression in the lash industry isn’t just time-based; it’s tied to quality of work, client experience, branding, and how effectively a tech markets themselves. Skills compound, and so does income.

How Location Impacts Pay

Where a lash tech works plays a significant role in how much they can charge and how quickly they can build a full client roster. Areas with higher cost of living and strong beauty-centered communities typically support higher service prices, while smaller towns or suburban areas may have lower rates but offer steadier, more loyal clientele.

Urban and High-Demand Markets

Cities with dense populations and active beauty trends, such as Los Angeles, Miami, or New York, allow lash techs to charge premium rates. Competition can be higher, but so is client volume. Well-branded techs in these areas often book out weeks in advance.

Suburban Areas

Suburbs often offer a balance. Prices may be slightly lower than major cities, but consistent repeat clients and word-of-mouth referrals can create stable income with less turnover.  

Small Towns and Rural Regions

Pricing tends to be more modest, but overhead costs like rent and supplies are often lower as well. Strong relationships and community-based marketing can result in long-term retention and solid monthly revenue.

The best location for high earnings is not always the most expensive city. The techs who understand their local market, price themselves strategically, and deliver consistent results often earn the most, regardless of where they live.

Costs to Consider When Understanding Lash Tech Salary

Before you get starry-eyed at potential earnings, it’s important to factor in the costs that come with being a lash technician. These aren’t just your standard business expenses—think of them as investments in your craft and your reputation. From high-quality lash supplies and professional-grade adhesives to sanitation equipment and stylish workspace essentials, the expenses can add up quickly. Don’t forget continuing education, certifications, and insurance, which can significantly impact your take-home pay.

Understanding these costs helps you see the full picture of what a lash tech really earns and ensures you’re pricing your services to sustain a profitable and thriving business.

Lash Tech Income Scenario Examples

Numbers can feel abstract until you see them in action. Let’s break down a few real-world scenarios to illustrate what a lash technician might actually make.

• Entry-Level Lash Tech: Working part-time with a smaller client base, an entry-level tech might bring in around $20,000–$30,000 annually. After factoring in supplies and business costs, the take-home pay can feel modest but offers room for growth.

• Experienced Full-Time Lash Tech: With a steady roster of clients and a few premium services, an experienced lash tech could earn $40,000–$60,000 per year. At this stage, efficiency, repeat clients, and smart scheduling play a big role in maximizing income.

• High-Earning Lash Tech or Studio Owner: Lash technicians with a large clientele, high-end pricing, or a personal studio can see annual earnings exceed $70,000. At this level, strategic marketing, specialized skills, and client retention are key factors in driving revenue. Offering add-ons such as brow shaping, lash lifts, or aftercare products can further boost income by increasing the value of each appointment.

These examples show that while income varies widely, dedication, skill, and smart business decisions can dramatically impact your earning potential as a lash tech.

Maximizing Your Potential as a Lash Tech

Success as a lash technician comes from understanding your earning potential and making smart business decisions. Hone your skills, grow your client base, set competitive pricing, and watch your business—and your income—thrive.

Continuous education and staying on top of industry trends also help you stand out in a crowded market. The numbers you’ve seen in this article are just the starting point. With dedication and a focus on delivering exceptional service, your potential as a lash tech goes far beyond the average pay.

Ready to streamline your bookings, manage clients, and maximize your revenue? Start your journey today with a complimentary 30-day trial of Vagaro.

Sources

1. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/