SOC 39-5011
Barbers
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ61/100
High Risk
US Employment
๐ฅ18,100
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$39K
$28K โ $78K
Projected Growth
๐+4.1%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค53/100
Moderate exposure
๐ก Barbers face a risk score of 61/100 โ 17 points above the national average of 44. With 53/100 GenAI exposure, this occupation faces significant pressure from AI tools despite strong projected growth. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $39K. The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 61/100, Barbers faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like ai fitness coaching apps displacing personal trainers are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 18,100 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in emotional support and active listening during sessions and adapting techniques to individual body types and preferences to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Barbers?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
AI fitness coaching apps displacing personal trainers
Robotic massage and physical therapy devices
AI-powered skincare and beauty recommendation apps
Automated booking and client management platforms
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Emotional support and active listening during sessions
Adapting techniques to individual body types and preferences
Building trust and rapport with repeat clients
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Clean and sterilize scissors, combs, clippers, and other instruments.
Drape and pin protective cloths around customers' shoulders.
Cut and trim hair according to clients' instructions or current hairstyles, using clippers, combs, hand-held blow driers, and scissors.
Question patrons regarding desired services and haircut styles.
Clean work stations and sweep floors.
๐ป Technology Skills
Calendar and scheduling software
Data base user interface and query software
Web page creation and editing software
Operating system software
Spreadsheet software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Customer and Personal Service
Administration and Management
English Language
Economics and Accounting
Psychology
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Workers, All Other | 22 | $69K | 63% |
| Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides | 23 | $62K | 61% |
| Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors | 23 | $59K | 61% |