“Location, location, location.” You’ve heard it a thousand times. For a new barbershop owner, this isn’t just a catchy phrase—it’s the single most important decision you’ll make, and getting it wrong is a primary source of anxiety. Choosing a location based on “gut feeling” or convenience is a gamble you can’t afford to take. The success of your shop depends on being in the right place, for the right people, at the right price.
So, how do you move past the fear and make a smart, strategic choice? You use data.
This guide will walk you through a systematic, data-driven process for finding and validating the perfect spot for your new barbershop. We will show you how to choose a barbershop location by replacing guesswork with a clear, actionable plan.
Step 1: Forget the Real Estate, Focus on the Customer
Before you even glance at a “For Rent” sign, you must answer one question: Who is my ideal customer?
You cannot find where your customers are if you don’t know who they are. Are you building a classic, old-school sanctuary for “The Classic Gentleman” who values tradition and quiet conversation? Or are you creating a sleek, modern hub for “The Young Professional” who values efficiency and books exclusively on his phone?
Your brand and your target customer dictate your location—not the other way around. A deep understanding of barbershop demographics is the foundation of your entire search.
Action Step: Write down a detailed profile of your ideal client.
- Age:
- Profession/Income Level:
- Lifestyle: (e.g., trendy and social, family-oriented, professional)
- What do they value in a barbershop experience? (e.g., speed, luxury, community, price)
Step 2: Macro Analysis – Finding Your Target Zones
With a clear customer profile, you can start your barbershop location analysis at a high level. Your goal is to identify 3-5 potential neighborhoods or districts where your ideal customer lives, works, or spends their time.
- Use Free Demographic Tools: The U.S. Census Bureau website is a powerful (and free) tool. You can explore data by zip code to find areas with the right mix of age, income, and household type that matches your customer profile.
- Think Like Your Customer: Where do they go? If you’re targeting young professionals, look at areas with a high density of office buildings, modern apartment complexes, and popular restaurants or gyms. If you’re targeting a more traditional client, established suburban neighborhoods might be a better fit.
- Analyze Drive Times: Consider how far people are willing to travel. A convenient location is crucial. Map out potential zones and consider their accessibility from major residential and commercial areas.
Step 3: Micro Analysis – Boots on the Ground
Once you have your target zones, it’s time to get out of the office and scout them on foot. This is where you validate the data and get a feel for the neighborhood’s true character.
Analyzing Competitor Locations
Seeing other barbershops nearby isn’t automatically a bad thing. In fact, it can signal that there’s strong demand in the area. The key is to understand the competition, not just count it.
- Categorize, Don’t Count: Is the competitor a low-cost national chain like Supercuts, or a high-end independent shop that has the same target customer as you? A nearby Supercuts isn’t a threat if you’re building a premium brand. A direct competitor, however, requires more careful consideration.
- Look for Gaps: Is the area full of traditional shops, but lacks a modern, trend-focused one? That’s your opportunity.
- Observe Their Flow: How busy are they? Sit in a nearby coffee shop and watch their client traffic on a Tuesday afternoon and a Saturday morning. Are they appointment-based or walk-in heavy? This tells you a lot about the local market.
Assess Foot Traffic and Accessibility
- Visibility is Key: A corner location with large windows is far more valuable than a spot tucked away in the back of a strip mall. You want people to see your shop and be drawn in.
- Parking and Transit: Is there ample, convenient parking? If not, is the location easily accessible via public transportation? A lack of easy access can be a deal-breaker for many clients.
- Complementary Businesses: Being near businesses that share your target customer is a huge advantage. A location next to a popular coffee shop, a stylish menswear store, or a busy gym creates natural foot traffic from the exact people you want to attract.
Step 4: Work with a Professional
Once you’ve narrowed your search to a few top locations, it’s time to engage a professional. A commercial real estate broker who specializes in retail spaces in your target neighborhoods can be an invaluable asset. They have access to listings that aren’t public and can provide expert guidance on negotiating lease terms. When looking for commercial real estate for barbers, a specialized broker understands the unique needs of your business.By following this structured approach, you transform one of the most stressful parts of your startup journey into a strategic advantage. You will have the data and the confidence to know that you haven’t just found a space—you’ve found the right space to build your thriving business.