How to Become a Manicurists and Pedicurist in 2026
Median salary: $34,660 · +7.0% projected growth (2024–2034)
What does a Manicurists and Pedicurist do?
Clean and shape customers' fingernails and toenails. May polish or decorate nails.
Manicurists and Pedicurist Salary in 2026
The median annual salary for Manicurists and Pedicurists is $34,660. The bottom 10% earn around $27,910 while the top 10% earn over $47,990.
| Experience level | Annual salary |
|---|---|
| Entry-level (P10) | $27,910 |
| Early career (P25) | $31,510 |
| Median | $34,660 |
| Experienced (P75) | $37,660 |
| Top earners (P90) | $47,990 |
Highest-paying metros
Manicurists and Pedicurist salary by state
| State | Median salary |
|---|---|
| Kentuckytop | $60,950 |
| Maine | $49,430 |
| Washington | $47,840 |
| District of Columbia | $47,120 |
| Alaska | $46,040 |
| New Mexico | $42,840 |
| Mississippi | $42,370 |
| South Dakota | $40,210 |
| Missouri | $38,950 |
| Iowa | $38,530 |
| Utah | $38,390 |
| Colorado | $37,800 |
| Virginia | $36,970 |
| Texas | $36,900 |
| Nebraska | $36,560 |
| Maryland | $36,380 |
| Rhode Island | $36,180 |
| Minnesota | $36,140 |
| West Virginia | $36,020 |
| Oregon | $35,970 |
| Ohio | $35,900 |
| Nevada | $35,340 |
| California | $35,000 |
| Michigan | $34,920 |
| Arizona | $34,820 |
| North Carolina | $34,810 |
| Illinois | $34,520 |
| Massachusetts | $34,180 |
| Wisconsin | $34,180 |
| Vermont | $33,520 |
| New York | $33,390 |
| Idaho | $33,260 |
| Indiana | $33,090 |
| Connecticut | $32,640 |
| Florida | $32,370 |
| New Hampshire | $31,720 |
| New Jersey | $31,470 |
| North Dakota | $30,920 |
| Kansas | $30,650 |
| Tennessee | $30,030 |
| Oklahoma | $29,560 |
| Hawaii | $29,120 |
| Louisiana | $29,100 |
| Delaware | $28,480 |
| Alabama | $27,980 |
| Arkansas | $27,780 |
| Pennsylvania | $27,480 |
| Georgia | $26,500 |
| South Carolina | $25,980 |
How to earn more as a Manicurists and Pedicurist
The salary range for Manicurists and Pedicurists spans $20,080 — from $27,910 at entry level to $47,990 for top earners. The highest-paying metro area is Kentucky at $60,950 — $26,290 above the national median. Union membership, additional certifications, and supervisory experience are the most reliable paths to higher earnings in this field.
How to get there
Typical education: Postsecondary nondegree award
Starting from high school
- Start in an entry-level position with structured on-the-job training
- Earn industry-recognized certifications (industry-recognized certifications)
- Complete OSHA 10-Hour or OSHA 30-Hour safety certification ($25–$200)
- Gain 1–2 years of supervised work experience
- Advance to journeyman level or specialized role
Most entry-level positions provide on-the-job training. Look for apprenticeship programs through unions, trade associations, or the Department of Labor's ApprenticeshipUSA program. Community colleges and vocational schools offer certificate programs that can be completed in 6–12 months. OSHA safety certifications are widely valued and often required.
Many employers provide paid training. Union apprenticeships are typically paid from day one. Trade school programs may require tuition.
Switching from another career
- Assess which of your existing skills transfer (many do — see below)
- Complete a short certification or orientation program (industry-recognized certifications)
- Apply for entry-level or apprentice positions — highlight transferable skills
- Complete any required on-the-job training (often shortened for experienced workers)
- Advance faster than new entrants using your professional experience
Career changers are in demand across this field. Your existing professional skills — problem-solving, communication, time management, and work ethic — are valued by employers even if your technical skills are new. Many organizations offer orientation programs or short certification courses designed specifically for career changers. Contact industry associations, local unions, or community colleges for programs in your area.
Certification costs are typically self-funded, but some employers reimburse. Union programs are paid positions.
Already working in another career?
See how your skills transfer to Manicurists and Pedicurist — free. PathScorer maps your experience against the requirements and shows you what you already qualify for.
See how your skills transfer — freeAI and automation outlook
The Manicurists and Pedicurist role has a low AI exposure score — one of the safer careers from automation. Most day-to-day tasks require human judgment, physical presence, or interpersonal skills that AI cannot replicate.
See full AI risk breakdownRelated careers to consider
Based on skill overlap analysis — these occupations share core competencies with Manicurists and Pedicurist.
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SOC: 39-5092.00 · Data: O*NET 29.1, BLS OEWS 2024, BLS Employment Projections 2024–2034