How to Start a Barbershop Business in NYC That Caters to People of Color: A Step-by-Step Guide

New York City is home to a diverse and vibrant Black and Latino community with a strong demand for high-quality, culturally specific grooming services. A barbershop that caters to people of color can be a profitable and essential business in NYC, providing specialized haircuts, grooming, and self-care experiences tailored to Black and Latino clients.

However, launching a successful barbershop requires proper licensing, legal compliance, and an effective marketing strategy. To ensure your business is legally protected and well-structured, hire the business attorneys at Figeroux & Associates. Their team provides legal representation and marketing guidance to help your barbershop thrive. Contact them at www.askthelawyer.us or call 855-768-8845 for expert assistance.

Below is a step-by-step guide to starting your barbershop business in NYC.

Step 1: Conduct Market Research and Develop a Business Plan

Market Research

Before starting your barbershop, research the demand, target audience, and competition in NYC.

• Identify Your Target Audience:
  • Black and Latino men who want professional and culturally relevant haircuts.
  • Men with textured hair who need specialized barbers trained in fades, waves, afros, locs, braids, and beard grooming.
  • Professionals, students, and families looking for quality grooming services in their communities.
• Analyze Competitors:
  • Research other barbershops in NYC catering to people of color.
  • Identify pricing structures, customer experience, and branding strategies that work.
  • Look at major players like Levels Barbershop, Ace of Fades, and Denny Moe’s Superstar Barbershop.

Develop a Business Plan

A strong business plan will guide your barbershop’s development. Your plan should include:

• Business Concept: Define your brand, mission, and the unique services you will offer.
• Startup Costs & Budget: Estimate expenses for rent, equipment, licenses, and staffing.
• Marketing Strategy: Detail how you will attract clients through social media, referrals, and local advertising.
• Revenue Model: Decide if you will charge per haircut, offer memberships, or rent out chairs to barbers.

Step 2: Choose a Legal Structure and Register Your Business

Business Registration

To operate legally in NYC, you need to register your business. Figeroux & Associates can help you with the entire legal process.

• Choose a business structure:
  • Sole Proprietorship – Easy to set up but offers no liability protection.
  • LLC (Limited Liability Company) – Protects personal assets and offers flexibility.
  • Corporation (S-Corp or C-Corp) – Suitable for a larger operation with multiple locations.
• Register your business with the New York Department of State.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for tax purposes.

Obtain the Necessary Permits and Licenses

• Barbershop Business License – Apply through the New York State Department of State.
• Barber License – At least one owner or employee must have a New York State Barber License.
• Certificate of Occupancy – Required for operating in a commercial space.
• Health and Safety Compliance – Follow NYC Department of Health regulations for sanitation.

Need help with legal setup? Contact Figeroux & Associates at 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us.

Step 3: Find the Perfect Location

Best NYC Areas for a Barbershop Catering to People of Color

• Brooklyn (Bed-Stuy, Flatbush, East New York) – Large Black and Caribbean population.
• The Bronx (Fordham, Wakefield, Hunts Point) – High demand for culturally relevant barbershops.
• Queens (Jamaica, South Ozone Park, Hollis) – Thriving Latino and Afro-Caribbean communities.
• Harlem & Washington Heights (Manhattan) – Strong demand for Black and Latino grooming services.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Location

• Visibility & Foot Traffic – Look for storefronts in high-traffic areas.
• Proximity to Public Transportation – Easy access for clients.
• Affordable Rent & Lease Terms – Keep overhead costs manageable.

Step 4: Purchase Equipment and Set Up Your Shop

Essential Barbershop Equipment

• Barber Chairs – Comfortable, high-quality chairs for customer experience.
• Clippers & Trimmers – Professional-grade tools for precision cuts.
• Hair Wash Stations – For shampooing and deep conditioning treatments.
• Mirrors & Workstations – Stylish and functional barber stations.
• Cash Register & POS System – For smooth transactions and booking appointments.

Shop Design & Branding

• Use modern decor with elements of Black and Latino culture.
• Create a comfortable waiting area with TVs, music, and magazines.
• Incorporate aesthetic lighting and a strong brand logo for Instagram-worthy experiences.

Step 5: Hire and Train Barbers

Hiring Needs

• Licensed Barbers with expertise in Black and Latino hair textures.
• Receptionist for scheduling and customer service.
• Cleaning Staff to maintain hygiene and safety.

Employee Training

• Train barbers in customer service, precision cuts, and sanitation protocols.
• Offer continued education on the latest styles and trends.
• Emphasize community engagement and professionalism.

Step 6: Set Pricing and Revenue Streams

Pricing Strategy

• Standard cuts: $25-$50
• Specialty cuts (fades, designs): $50-$80
• Beard grooming & shaves: $30-$60
• Memberships & subscriptions for repeat clients

Additional Revenue Streams

• Sell haircare products, grooming kits, and styling tools.
• Offer VIP memberships with exclusive perks.
• Rent out chairs to barbers under a booth rental model.

Step 7: Market Your Barbershop

Online Marketing

• Social Media: Post before-and-after haircut pictures, customer testimonials, and promotions.
• Google My Business: Optimize for local searches.
• Website & Online Booking: Use Booksy or Vagaro for online scheduling.

Local Advertising & Community Engagement

• Flyers & Business Cards – Distribute in local gyms, cafes, and cultural events.
• Sponsorships – Partner with sports teams, community programs, and social influencers.
• Referral Programs – Offer discounts for customer referrals.

For expert marketing guidance, contact Figeroux & Associates at 855-768-8845.

Step 8: Launch and Grow Your Barbershop Business

Grand Opening Ideas

• Offer free haircuts or discounts on opening day.
• Host a live DJ and giveaway event.
• Collaborate with local influencers and barbershop vloggers.

Scaling Your Business

• Open additional locations in high-demand neighborhoods.
• Launch your own line of grooming products.
• Offer barber training workshops for aspiring professionals.

Profitable Business Opportunity 

Starting a barbershop catering to people of color in NYC is a profitable business opportunity with strong demand. By following this step-by-step guide, you can build a successful barbershop that provides high-quality, culturally relevant grooming services.

To legally protect your business and receive expert marketing advice, hire the business attorneys at Figeroux & Associates.

Call 855-768-8845 or visit www.askthelawyer.us to get started today!