📍 South Dakota Programs from 11 to 16 months📈 Steady demand across the United States

Cosmetologist salary in South Dakota

A strong career option in South Dakota — with programs that take 11 to 16 months to complete.

Median pay · May 2025

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

$49,800/ yr

$4,150 / mo · $23.94 / hr

Pay by experience

Entry

$32,094

Median

$49,800

Experienced

$61,901

Demand

Moderate

Program length

11 to 16 months

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Job demand & outlook

Steady demand across the United States

Moderate demand

Source: BLS Employment Projections

Where this career can take you

A clear progression path, with real salary growth at each step

  • Cosmetologist (entry-level)$32,094
  • Cosmetologist (mid-career)$49,800
  • Cosmetologist (experienced)$61,901

Is this career change worth it?

A simple look at what it costs vs what you gain

What it typically costs

  • Average training cost
  • Time to complete11 to 16 months
  • Credential earned

What you get back

  • Starting salary$32,094
  • Median salary$49,800
  • Experienced salary$61,901

Many career changers recoup their certification cost within the first few months of working in their new role.

How to become a Cosmetologist in South Dakota

A clear path from where you are to where you want to be

1

Find a Cosmetologist program in South Dakota

Browse certified training programs. Most Cosmetologist tracks complete in 11 to 16 months.

2

Earn your certification

Complete coursework, finish required clinical or lab hours, and pass the exam required for a certification in South Dakota.

3

Get hired in South Dakota

With roughly thousands of Cosmetologist openings each year nationwide, graduates often find employment within 30–90 days in South Dakota.

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Frequently asked questions

The median salary for a Cosmetologist in South Dakota is $49,800 per year, which is $23.94 per hour. Entry level positions typically start around $32,094 while experienced Cosmetologists can earn up to $61,901 annually.

Next step

Find Cosmetologist Classes Near You

Enter your ZIP code to see accredited Cosmetologist classes in your area.