How to Open Your Beauty Salon in Iowa: A Complete Guide

Dreaming of opening your beauty salon in Iowa? With a growing demand for beauty services and a supportive business climate, Iowa is a great place to start. But turning your passion for hair, nails, or skincare into a successful salon takes more than talent—you need business skills, licensing knowledge, and a clear plan.

In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to open a beauty salon in Iowa—from training and licensing to business setup and growth tips.

How to Open a Beauty Salon in Iowa: Key Steps You Can’t Afford to Miss

Here are the essential steps every aspiring salon owner in Iowa should follow—from training and licensing to setting up your space and attracting clients.

Step 1: Get the Right Education & Business Training

To open a salon in Iowa, you need state-approved cosmetology training—and a solid grasp of business fundamentals. The right program can prepare you for both the salon chair and salon ownership.

Why Choose the A.A.S. Degree from La’ James International College?

La James International College (LJIC) offers an exclusive Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Health and Beauty Management, designed for aspiring salon owners who want both beauty expertise and entrepreneurial skills. Unlike traditional cosmetology programs, this degree includes essential business courses taught in partnership with Iowa Central Community College. Students begin by earning 52 credits through LJIC’s cosmetology program—or a combination of esthetics and massage therapy—before moving into business-focused coursework.

There are 18 additional online business class credits to complete the degree:

• Business Communications
• Business Mathematics
• Principles of Management
• Human Relations
• Principles of Marketing
• Introduction to Entrepreneurship

These courses are strategically designed to equip our students with the knowledge to manage finances, market their brand, lead a team, and build long-term success in their salon.

Start Fast with the “Drivers of Success” Course

Even before you complete your degree, LJIC helps you build a strong foundation with the “Drivers of Success” Fast Track course. This program, taught in the first term, focuses on career readiness, confidence, communication, and professional attitude, all key qualities for future salon owners.

By integrating technical, professional, and business development from the very beginning, LJIC sets you up to move from classroom to ownership with clarity and purpose.

Step 2: Build Your Business Plan

With the skills gained through LJIC’s A.A.S. program, you’ll be ready to:

• Define your salon’s mission, vision, and unique offerings
• Conduct market and competitor analysis
• Plan your services and pricing strategy
• Estimate your startup costs and financial projections
• Create marketing plans that reflect your brand identity

Your business plan will be essential for applying for funding and keeping your goals on track.

Step 3: Legal Setup & Licensing in Iowa

As you prepare to open and legally operate your new salon in the state of Iowa, follow these key steps:

• Choose a business name and register your LLC, or other business structure, with the Iowa Secretary of State
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
• Register for state taxes with the Iowa Department of Revenue
• Apply for your Salon Establishment License through the Iowa Board of Cosmetology Arts and Sciences (more information here)
• Ensure you and your team have valid Iowa professional licenses (cosmetology, esthetics, or nail tech)
• Apply for city permits and a sales tax license if selling products.

Learn what’s required to get and renew your license in our Iowa Cosmetology License guide.

Step 4: Find the Right Location & Design Your Salon

Using the entrepreneurship and marketing strategies learned at LJIC, you’ll already be prepared to:

• Choose a location with visibility, foot traffic, and accessibility
• Design a layout that enhances client flow and comfort
• Select salon equipment that aligns with your service offerings
• Create a space that reflects your brand

Step 5: Finance Your Salon

Startup costs for a small to mid-sized salon in Iowa typically range from $20,000 to $100,000. LJIC students who complete the A.A.S. degree are better prepared to:

• Create a realistic startup budget
• Explore financing options like small business loans or grants
• Pitch their plan to investors or lenders

Step 6: Market & Grow Your Business

Opening your own salon can be one of the most exciting things you’ll ever do.  Some of the fun challenges you’ll get to do include: 

• Launch a compelling brand identity
• Build an online presence with a website and social media
• Attract clients through digital campaigns, promotions, and partnerships
• Retain clients with loyalty programs and excellent service

As a La’ James International College alumni, you will also receive free lifetime continued education, helping you stay on top of trends, expand your services, and stay competitive in Iowa’s evolving beauty scene.

Ready to make your dream a reality? With the right training and a clear roadmap, opening a beauty salon in Iowa is closer than you think.

Why LJIC is the Best Starting Point for Salon Owners

• Exclusive A.A.S. Degree focused on beauty + business
• Experienced instructors who guide and mentor your growth
• Flexible online courses through a trusted college partner
• Lifetime support, including career assistance and continuing education
• Real-world preparation through the “Drivers of Success” course

Your Dream Starts Here

If your goal is to own a beauty salon in Iowa, La’ James International College offers more than just education, it offers a pathway to independence, confidence, and long-term success.

Visit ljic.edu to learn more about the A.A.S. in Health and Beauty Management and schedule a campus tour today.