So, are you ready to launch your own beauty business?
That's a huge move.
If you've been dreaming about setting your own prices, building your brand, and deciding your schedule, this is the right time to make it real.
But here's the challenge. Moving from a traditional commission job to full independence is complex. You need a solid strategy.
Specifically, you have to decide on your business model. Should you rent a booth? Lease a private suite? Or buy into a franchise?
This guide breaks down the essential facts for launching successfully in Metro Atlanta in 2026. We'll show you exactly how to choose the right path for your financial and career goals.
What Are Salon Suites, Booths, and Studios?
Before exploring the market, you must understand the structure. In the modern beauty industry, you have three primary paths to independence. Each one offers a different level of control, cost, and responsibility.
Booth Rental (Chair Rental)

A booth rental is the most traditional independent setup. You lease a chair or station within an established salon. You operate as an independent contractor, not an employee. You pay a weekly or monthly fee to the salon owner.
- You control your services, pricing, and client list.
- The salon controls the overall brand, hours, and common areas.
- It's a lower-cost entry point. However, your creative freedom is limited.
In Metro Atlanta, booth rentals usually offer 35-50 sq. ft., roughly a 5x7 ft setup with a styling chair, mirror, and small counter. Shampoo bowls, dryers, and back-bar areas are shared, which helps keep costs low.
Salon Suite or Studio

A salon suite is a private, fully enclosed room inside a larger facility. This model is ideal for a beauty professional seeking total autonomy. You are essentially a small business owner leasing commercial real estate.
- You control everything: the decor, music, product lines, and scheduling.
- Your clients receive a one-on-one, private experience.
- The suite facility manages utilities, building maintenance, and security.
- This is a higher-cost option, but you keep 100% of your profits from services and retail.
In Metro Atlanta, salon suites generally range from 90-350 sq. ft. Smaller suites offer single-station setups, while larger units can accommodate two or three stations for small teams. Many suites include built-in sinks, mirrors, cabinetry, and styling space.
Beauty Franchise

A beauty franchise offers a different kind of ownership. You purchase the right to operate a proven business under a corporate brand name. Think of national chains for haircutting, blowouts, or medspa services.
- You use a recognized name, a tested operational playbook, and established marketing.
- You pay an upfront fee and ongoing royalties.
- This model reduces your risk but significantly limits your creative freedom.
- It is often best for entrepreneurs focused on management, not hands-on service.
It's a lower-risk model, but you trade creative freedom for structure. This path is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to manage a business rather than work behind the chair.
Salon Suite vs. Booth Rental vs. Franchise Studio
| Feature | Salon Suite | Booth Rental | Franchise Studio |
| Business Control | Full control. You run your own mini-salon. | High control but limited by the host salon's rules. | Moderate. You follow franchise systems and standards. |
| Startup Cost | Moderate. Rent + equipment + products. | Low. Mainly chair rent and supplies. | High. Franchise fees, build-out, equipment, and ongoing royalties. |
| Monthly Cost | Predictable rent; utilities often included. | Lowest monthly cost. | Highest monthly cost; includes marketing fees and royalties. |
| Branding Flexibility | Full freedom to create your own brand. | Partial. You represent your own brand but operate inside another salon. | Limited. You must use the franchisor's branding. |
| Client Ownership | 100% yours. You keep every client and lead. | 100% yours. | Shared influence. A franchise may support client acquisition. |
| Environment | Private, professional, controlled. | Shared, busy salon environment. | Professional, structured environment with corporate standards. |
| Training + Support | None unless you seek it yourself. | None. | Strong training, business coaching, marketing support. |
| Growth Potential | High. You can expand to multiple suites. | Moderate. Limited by the number of chairs available. | Very high. You can scale to multiple franchise locations. |
| Ideal For | Independent stylists want privacy and total control. | New or cost-conscious pros building a client base. | Entrepreneurs or investors looking for structured growth. |
Cost Analysis of Booths, Suites, and Franchises in Metro Atlanta
Choosing your operational model is primarily a financial decision. You must assess the startup cost against your long-term profit retention. Metro Atlanta's rental rates are higher than the national average. Budget smart.
Booth Rental Price
Booth rental offers the cheapest entry point. This model is suited for a professional prioritizing quick cash flow and minimal upfront risk. However, the costs add up quickly.
- Atlanta Weekly Rent: Expect to pay between $250 and $400 weekly in the Metro Atlanta area.
- Monthly Commitment: This translates to roughly $1,000 to $1,600 monthly for your station.
- Startup Total: You need under $2,000 to launch. This covers a deposit and personal tools.
- Ongoing Fees: Budget an additional $200 monthly minimum for shared supplies, such as backbar products.
- The Downside: Your pricing and product choices are often controlled by the salon owner. This limits retail profit, impacting your overall take-home pay.
Salon Suites Price
Salon suites demand a higher upfront cost. You are leasing commercial real estate, not just a chair. This investment secures your full autonomy and 100% of profit.
- Atlanta Monthly Rent: Suites average $800 to $2,000 monthly. Premium locations push the high end of this range.
- Weekly Rate: This is often quoted as $250 to $800 weekly, depending on square footage and amenities.
- Startup Total: Plan for $5,000 to $15,000 to cover your deposit, furnishings, and initial branding.
- Financial Advantage: Utilities, maintenance, and security are usually included. There are no surprise fees eating into your profit margin.
- The Payoff: Full retail control can boost your take-home pay by 10-15%.
Beauty Franchise Price
The franchise model is for the investor, not the solo practitioner. It provides a systemized business but requires significant capital and relinquishes creative control.
- Initial Investment: The total cost spans a massive range, typically $133,000 to nearly $1 million. This covers the site build-out, equipment, and licensing fees.
- Upfront Fee: Expect a franchise fee between $25,000 and $50,000 for the brand rights.
- Liquid Cash: You will need at least $100,000 in available liquid assets to qualify.
- Ongoing Fees: You pay royalties of 4-6% of gross revenue forever. You also often pay an additional 1-3% into a corporate advertising fund.
Crunch your numbers carefully. Atlanta's market rewards the smart financial pick. Suites may cost more weekly, but they protect your revenue, offering the highest net profit potential.
The Growing Beauty Industry in Metro Atlanta
The U.S. beauty industry is booming. Salon and personal care services are projected to reach $448 billion by 2032. Growth is strong, about 7.79% CAGR.
Georgia's market is rising too. Personal care and salon services are expected to generate over $240.61 million in 2025. Metro Atlanta benefits from this trend.
The region's population is growing. Fast-growing neighborhoods create high demand for hair, nails, lashes, and skincare services.
Most salons in Georgia are small businesses. About 90% operate with fewer than five employees. That makes salon suites, booth rentals, and independent studios a natural fit.
Consumer preferences are changing. Clients want personalized service, modern booking systems, and specialty treatments. Salons that offer unique or premium services have an edge.
Why Metro Atlanta is Ideal for Beauty Professionals
Metro Atlanta is growing fast. That makes it perfect for new beauty businesses. Demographics and the economy work in your favor.
- Population Expansion: Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the country. A constant influx of new residents means a steady stream of new potential clients.
- High Disposable Income: The region's strong economic growth and significant corporate investment create a wealthy, diverse clientele. This client base seeks and pays a premium for specialized, high-quality services.
- Diverse Clientele: Atlanta's rich cultural diversity means a wide demand for niche services. Professionals specializing in textured hair, inclusive skincare, or global beauty trends can thrive here.
- Business Hub: Metro Atlanta has become a hub for business investment. This creates a supportive environment for new entrepreneurs.
Simply put, you have a large, affluent, and growing customer base right outside your door. Starting your business here positions you for long-term success.
Who Should Choose Which Model: Booth Rental vs. Salon Suite vs. Independent Studio

Not every path fits every stylist. Picking the wrong one means you'll either bleed money or sacrifice your sanity. Here is the straight talk on who thrives in Metro Atlanta right now.
Who Should Stay with Traditional Booth Rental
Booth rental is your training wheels. This model is ideal for the professional seeking a low-risk, high-community launch.
- You're a new licensee or new to Metro Atlanta. New grads and recent licensees with under two years behind the chair fit here.
- You need built-in foot traffic. Established salons in areas like Buckhead, Midtown, or Perimeter deliver walk-ins and instant brand recognition. This cuts your personal marketing grind.
- Cash flow is tight. Booth rents often start at $1,000-$1,600 a month in Metro Atlanta. That keeps your overhead low while you build your core client base.You like the energy.
- You thrive working alongside others. Drama doesn't scare you; you actually enjoy the busy floor's collaborative vibe.
If you are starting your business and need the cheapest, lowest-risk launch, rent a chair. Most professionals stay 12-24 months before their growth forces them to move up.
Who Should Move to a Salon Suite (Private or Semi-Private)
The salon suite is for the established professional ready for total independence. This is the path to maximum profit retention.
- You are booked 70% or more. You are turning clients away. Your waitlist is real, and your current schedule demands more flexibility.
- Time to go private. Privacy matters. High-end guests in affluent areas like Sandy Springs expect a locked door and a luxury, one-on-one experience. Zero eavesdroppers.
- Money is no longer the bottleneck. Suites run $1,200-$2,800 a month, but you keep every dollar after rent. You end commission splits forever.
- You value flexibility. 24/7 access means you can take that 9 p.m. bridal party or Sunday color client without begging the owner for access.
Who Should Consider a Shared Studio or Dual Suite
This is a strategic, cost-effective move for specialized partnerships. It allows for autonomy while significantly cutting the expense barrier.
- You are a power duo. Think a hair stylist partnered with a colorist, or a nail tech sharing space with an esthetician. You actively feed each other clients.
- Splitting the rent makes it affordable. Sharing a larger, 250-350 sq ft suite halves the $2,000-$3,500 monthly cost.
- You crave collaboration and privacy. Shared suites offer separate stations plus a joint waiting area. It's the best of both worlds that offers less isolation but full branding flexibility.
- Your combined books justify the jump. Going solo feels lonely and expensive. This option reduces overhead while letting you cross-sell services.
Choose this if collaboration sparks joy, privacy matters, and shared operating costs maximize your net profit.
Who Should Open or Buy an Independent Stand-Alone Studio
This is the largest leap: you are transitioning from service provider to management entrepreneur. This requires capital and a massive risk tolerance.
- You are playing big. You have multiple six-figure personal revenues. You are ready to hire staff and eventually sell the business for a high multiple (e.g., 4-6x EBITDA).
- You demand total control. No corporate rules, no shared parking drama, and no landlord dictating paint colors. You build the structure from the ground up.
- Location is your moat. You need a prime corner in a high-traffic area like Buckhead, Marietta, or Perimeter.
- You have (or can raise) serious capital. You need $150k-$400k for the build-out, permits, and reserves. Banks often finance these moves, like Small Business Administration (SBA) loans are common here.
This is rare air. Pick this only if you are proven, funded, and focused on building an asset that can operate without you doing the hands-on work.
Renting Salon Suites or Booths in Metro Atlanta
The price of monthly rents for salon suites range from $800-$2,000. Booths run slightly lower, $1,000-$1,600.
Location matters!
Midtown hits $1,500+, while suburbs like Sandy Springs dip to $900.
Leases are flexible. Month-to-month options are common, though many landlords prefer 6-12 months with a 1-2 months' security deposit. Utilities are often included.
Requirements are straightforward:
- Cosmetology license: Georgia mandates 1,650 training hours.
- Business license: County-specific, $75-$200 yearly.
- Health permits: County inspectors check sinks, ventilation, floors.
- Sales tax ID: Via the Georgia Department of Revenue.
- Liability insurance: Minimum $1M coverage.
Read your rental agreement carefully. Check maintenance splits, shared space rules, and early termination clauses. Hire a lawyer if anything looks off.
Leasing Full Spaces for Beauty Businesses in Metro Atlanta
Leasing raw commercial space is a bigger investment.
- Cost: Expect $4,600/month for ~2,400 sq ft.
- Price per sq ft: $20-$35 annually in hot zones like Buckhead.
- Lease terms: Typically 3-5 years. Landlords often require 20% down on build-out and personal guarantees. Triple net leases pass taxes, insurance, and maintenance to you.
Licensing gets more detailed for multi-station setups:
- Cosmetology board approval
- Fire marshal sign-off
- Zoning confirmation for commercial beauty use
- City business license ($100 base + revenue tiers)
- OSHA compliance for chemicals
- Waste disposal plan
Pro tip: Negotiate rent escalations capped at 3%. High occupancy ensures steady cash flow in prime areas.
Franchising a Salon Suite Business in Metro Atlanta
Franchising can reduce risk but requires capital and planning.
- Investment range: $133K-$983K total. Upfront fees $25K-$50K. Liquid cash: $100K+.
- Royalties: 4-6% of gross. Ad funds: 1-2%.
- Suites per location: 20-40, leased at market rates for steady ROI.
Requirements are strict:
- Net worth: $500K+
- Franchise experience is helpful
- FDD review: Mandatory; discloses 10-year earnings data
Georgia-specific rules:
- Register business with Secretary of State
- Business license per location
- Health codes per suite
- Franchisors provide training
Franchises that already do well usually fill their rooms fast in East Cobb and Woodstock, and after the first year they can earn more than 20% EBITDA, which means Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization.
Rent vs. Lease vs. Franchise
| Model | Financial Commitment | Operational Cost | Legal Relationship |
| Renting (Booth/Chair) | Lowest. Pay a weekly/monthly fee. | Low. The salon owner dictates rules, branding, and hours. | An Independent Contractor operating within someone else's business. |
| Leasing (Salon Suite) | Moderate. Pay a fixed monthly rent for a private room. | High. You control your brand, decor, services, and schedule. | Commercial Tenant leasing private real estate. You are the business owner. |
| Franchising (Business) | Highest. Pay a large upfront fee + ongoing percentage of sales (royalties). | Minimal. You must follow all corporate rules, branding, and operations. | Franchisee buys the right to operate a corporate brand name and system. |
Prime Metro Atlanta Locations, Advantages, and Pricing
Each area in Metro Atlanta offers unique opportunities. Matching your specialty to the right location boosts clients, revenue, and retention.
Buckhead
Buckhead is Atlanta's luxury and high-end beauty district. It attracts clients willing to spend $200-$500 on color, extensions, facials, and other premium services. The area is walkable and accessible, making it easy for clients to visit from nearby offices, MARTA, or other local attractions. Salon suites here offer privacy, upscale finishes, and the ability to charge 30-50% more than suburban rates. Repeat clients value exclusivity, and trend-driven services thrive in this high-demand environment.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $125 - $550+ per week $500 - $2,000+ per month |
Minimum $125/week for 175-300 sq ft spaces; premium booths with sinks and privacy cost more; utilities often included, products/insurance usually extra |
| Salon Suites (Private Rooms) | $225 - $500+ per week | Smaller suites start around $225-$275/week; larger/luxury suites cost more based on size, amenities, and location; often include utilities and parking |
| Full Salon Lease (Independent) | $25 - $50+/sq ft/year for commercial space $2,000 - $5,000+ per month |
Costs vary by location, square footage, build-out, and lease terms; utilities and equipment extra |
| Franchise | Initial fees: $50,000+ Total investment: $675,000 - $1.6 million+ |
Covers franchise fee, construction, equipment, and working capital; royalties apply in addition to monthly expenses |
Midtown
This Midtown area is busy and walkable, so clients often come from the BeltLine, MARTA, or nearby offices. High foot traffic and being close to beauty schools bring new clients every day. Trend-driven services thrive here, and flexible hours make it easier for beauty professionals to balance work and life, especially when using salon suites.
| Option | Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Small Salon Suite | $100 - $300 per week $400 - $1,200+ per month |
Ideal for independent stylists; lower startup costs |
| Full Salon / Franchise | Franchise fees: $10,000 - $100,000+ Rent: $30 - $40+ per sq. ft. per year |
Higher startup costs including build-out, equipment, insurance, and marketing |
| Startup Costs (Full Salon) | $30K-$60K+ | Includes equipment, insurance, marketing, and working capital |
Choosing a salon suite can help manage these costs while giving professionals the flexibility to balance work and life in Midtown.
Perimeter
The Perimeter area is a major business and shopping hub. Office workers, mall shoppers, and hotel guests move through constantly, creating high visibility and frequent walk-ins. This reduces your marketing needs and ensures your salon suite benefits from steady traffic and unmatched convenience.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $150-$500 per week
$600-$2,000 per month |
Entry-level booths start at $150/week; premium features like natural light or multiple stations increase cost. Daily rates $50-$100; long-term deals may include discounts. |
| Salon Suites (Private Rooms) | $250-$800+ per week
$1,000-$3,200+ per month |
Most suites include utilities, Wi-Fi, laundry/housekeeping. Larger or luxury suites (90-300 sq ft) cost more based on size/amenities. December 2025 specials may be $150/week. |
| Full Salon Lease (Independent) | $2,000-$4,000+ per month (1,000-2,000 sq ft)
Hourly short-term: $91 |
Costs depend on square footage ($25-$30/SF/year), build-out, utilities, and prime location. Tenant handles equipment and maintenance. |
| Franchise | Initial investment: $1.18M-$1.94M+
Ongoing royalties: 5.5% + 1.5-2% marketing |
Includes $55K-$60K franchise fee, $786K-$1.16M build-out (4,200-9,000 sq ft facility), and equipment. Perimeter locations add premium due to high traffic. |
For aspiring beauty professionals, Perimeter salon suites offer a new opportunity to launch a business with privacy, flexibility, and lower overhead, making it easier to balance work and life.
Woodstock
Woodstock is a family-friendly area with steady spending and a loyal customer base. The convenience of free, easy parking makes it simple for clients to visit. Families and parents often stick with the same stylist for years, which ensures repeat business is consistent. Both booth rentals and private suites are in demand, and the suburban setting allows for slightly lower costs than urban Atlanta while still attracting clients willing to pay for quality services.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $200 - $400 per week $250 - $1,200 per month |
Entry-level booths include utilities and basic amenities; premium booths with sinks or privacy add 20-30% |
| Salon Suites (Private Rooms) | $800 - $1,500+ per month | Costs vary by size and included amenities; private suites give more autonomy and space |
| Full Salon Lease / Franchise | $2,000 - $4,000+ per month $180,000-$300,000 for traditional single salons and $500,000-$1.7M for salon-suite franchises. |
Larger salon spaces or franchises require build-out, equipment, and upfront investment; costs vary by location and size |
Marietta
Marietta blends historic charm with a strong community feel. Weekend foot traffic is especially high near Marietta Square, and local events like farmers' markets bring in new faces regularly. With lower competition than central Atlanta, this location makes it easier for beauty professionals to grow their business.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details | ||
| Booth / Chair Rental | $50 - $100 daily $185 - $500 weekly ($740 - $2,000 monthly) |
Entry-level booths include basic utilities; premium booths with multiple stations cost more; discounts often available for long-term commitments | ||
| Private Suites | $800 - $1,200+ per month | Suites often include utilities, Wi-Fi, and luxury amenities; larger suites cost more based on size and features | ||
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Commercial leases typically range from $19-$30 per sq ft annually, depending on location and lease type. Costs vary by build-out requirements, utilities, and equipment setup. Prime or high-end areas may exceed this range. | ||
| Franchise | Initial investment: $150,000 - $300,000+ | High upfront costs plus royalties; full salon franchises or larger setups require substantial investment |
Acworth
Acworth is a family-oriented suburb where residents prioritize consistent beauty routines. The combination of loyal, repeat-heavy clients and lower competition compared to central Atlanta provides a steady revenue stream. This makes Acworth an ideal location for solo beauty professionals focused on building their brand.
Both booth rentals and private suites are in demand, with suburban affordability keeping costs lower than urban Atlanta while still attracting clients seeking quality services. Choosing a salon suite rental in Acworth gives you privacy, flexibility, and control over your schedule and services, making it easier to grow your business on your own terms.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $60 - $250 per week $250 - $1,000 per month |
Daily ~$78; amenities (sinks/lighting) add $50-$100/week; long-term discounts common. |
| Private Suites | $250 - $500 per week $1,000 - $2,000+ per month |
Varies by 100-200 SF size, location (e.g., Highway 92), amenities (sinks/Wi-Fi) |
| Full Salon Lease (Independent) | $12 to $26 per square foot annually |
Costs include utilities and build-out; larger spaces require higher investment |
| Franchise | $300,000 - $1.9 million | Single-unit locations typically fall between $275K and $786K, including build-out and lease costs based on local retail rates. Larger, multi-story facilities with 40+ suites can exceed $1M. |
Snellville
Snellville serves active, multicultural families who value efficiency in their beauty routines. Clients often book appointments before or after workouts, errands, or family activities, making scheduling flexibility and privacy very important.
Hair stylists, estheticians, nail technicians, and other beauty professionals find Snellville a hidden gem for hair salon rentals, offering consistent clientele, flexible scheduling, and a supportive environment to grow their business.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $60 - $300 per week $125 - $1,300 per month |
Entry-level booths start around $125-$200/week; mid-range booths $400-$1,200/month; premium options add 20-30% for amenities |
| Private Suites | $150 - $800+ per week $250 - $800+ per month |
Suites may include utilities, Wi-Fi, and common areas; larger or fully-equipped suites cost more |
| Full Salon Lease (Independent) | $1,800 - $4,000+ per month (1,000-2,000 sq ft) Retail space: ~$25/sq ft annually |
Costs include utilities and build-outs; vary by location, building age, and amenities |
| Franchise | Initial investment: $150,000 - $300,000+ | Franchise fees $50,000+; total investments can reach $675,000 - $1.6 million; royalties may apply |
East Cobb
East Cobb is a popular suburban area with a steady flow of clients looking for quality beauty services. Many residents book appointments around workouts, errands, or family activities, so scheduling flexibility and privacy are very important. The area's strong beauty demand allows professionals to grow their business while keeping costs lower than central Atlanta.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $50 - $100 daily $195 - $500 weekly ($780 - $2,000 monthly) |
Includes basic amenities; premium booths with multiple stations cost more; long-term leases may offer discounts |
| Private Suites | $250 - $1,200+ per month | Prices vary by size, amenities, and location; suites often include utilities and shampoo stations |
| Full Salon Lease (Independent) | $2,000 - $5,000+ per month (1,000-2,000 sq ft) Commercial lease: ~$30/sq ft/year |
Costs include utilities and build-outs; larger spaces cost more depending on location and condition |
| Franchise | Initial investment: $150,000 - $300,000+ | High upfront costs plus royalties; total franchise investment can reach $675k - $1.6M |
Roswell
Roswell combines historic charm with a large base of affluent families. Clients here often book high-value services and are accustomed to purchasing recommended products, which helps boost profit margins beyond just service fees. The area offers a mix of historic streets, convenient shopping, and a strong local community, making it ideal for beauty professionals who want a steady flow of clients and opportunities to provide personalized services.
Renting a salon suite in Roswell allows professionals to maximize profitability by controlling pricing, products, and services while benefiting from the area's loyal, high-spending clientele.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $60-$300 per week$250-$1,200 per month | Basic chairs range from $75-$150 per week; premium locations cost more. Some rentals include utilities or offer long-term discounts. |
| Private Salon Suites | $200-$800 per week$800-$2,400+ per month | Typically includes utilities, Wi-Fi, and furnishings. Rates increase for larger suites and prime locations. |
| Full Salon Lease | $2,000-$4,500+ per month (1,000-2,000 sq. ft.)~$22-$30 per sq. ft. annually | Utilities, build-out costs, and maintenance are additional. Larger spaces and high-visibility locations increase pricing. |
| Franchise | $275,000-$1.7M+ total investment$40,000+ franchise fee | Requires high upfront capital plus ongoing royalties. Salon suite facilities often exceed $1M in total investment. |
Duluth
Duluth is a cultural melting pot with clients who actively seek specialized services like K-beauty, braids, or henna. These niche services perform very well, and word-of-mouth within tight-knit communities helps beauty professionals grow their client base quickly.
This dynamic market highlights the impact of salon studios in Duluth on the local community, supporting small businesses while meeting the diverse beauty needs of residents.
| Option | Typical Cost Range | Details |
| Booth / Chair Rental | $60 - $300 per week $250 - $1,200 per month |
Basic booths start around $250/month; mid-range booths $400-$1,000; premium booths for hair or nails reach $1,200; long-term leases may include discounts and utilities |
| Private Suites | $250 - $800+ per week $500 - $5,000+ per month |
Costs depend on size, location, and amenities such as private baths, storage, or furnishings |
| Full Salon Lease (Independent) | $1,800 - $4,000+ per month (1,000-2,000 sq ft) | Includes utilities and build-outs; larger spaces cost more depending on location and condition |
| Franchise | Initial investment: $150,000 - $300,000+ | Franchise fees plus build-out; ongoing monthly costs include suite rental and royalties |
Impact on Earning Potential and Client Reach
Location isn't everything. It's the only thing that multiplies everything else.
Luxury areas like Buckhead and East Cobb bring in higher-paying clients, while suburban spots like Woodstock and Marietta attract loyal clients who often book appointments years in advance.
Urban hubs such as Midtown and Perimeter bring high volume, while the suburbs provide consistent value and loyalty.
Match your specialty to the right pocket of Metro Atlanta and your suite doesn't just fill, it overflows. Choose wrong and you'll fight uphill forever. Choose right and 2026 becomes the year the city starts working for you.
Marketing Support & Business Growth at Salon Studios
When you join Salon Studios, you get more than just a space. You get support to grow your business. Here's how:
- Full Support Team: On-site managers handle maintenance, property issues, and tenant needs. This lets you focus entirely on your clients.
- 24/7 Suite Access: Work whenever it fits your schedule, whether early mornings, evenings, or weekends. Your clients get flexibility, and you control your hours.
- All-Inclusive Utilities: Wi-Fi, utilities, and building maintenance are included. There are no surprise bills or hidden fees, so your costs are predictable.
- Keep Your Earnings: All money from services and products stays with you. There are no splits or extra fees.
- Marketing Support: Social media templates, local advertising, and community events help bring clients to your door. You focus on your craft while we help fill your schedule.
This mix of support, flexibility, and marketing gives you the tools to grow your business without the stress of running a full salon.
Marketing Tools & Community Exposure
Salon Studios supports marketing even if marketing is not your strength. We provide:
- Ready‑to‑use social media and advertising materials. These help you promote your suite and services without needing to create content from scratch.
- A built-in community of professionals. Sharing a building with other beauty pros gives you networking and referral opportunities. Cross‑referrals can help fill your appointment book faster.
- Access to proven business systems. Whether you are just starting or expanding, Salon Studios gives guidance and support. You don't have to reinvent the wheel.
Trends and Future of the Suite Model

Salon suites are booming across the U.S., and the trend is only gaining momentum. Here's what you need to know:
- Independent Professionals Are Choosing Freedom: Most beauty professionals are leaving traditional commission-based setups. Today, about seven out of ten independents prefer a private suite. They want full control over their business, their schedule, and their client experience.
- Clients Value Privacy: Many clients now seek one-on-one, distraction-free environments. Roughly four out of ten say they will only book services in private spaces where they can relax comfortably.
- Big Brands Are Expanding: Major players like Salon Studio Beauty Mall are opening new locations frequently. Flexible leases make it easier than ever to start your own suite.
- Wellness Services Drive Demand: Suites that offer additional services like massage, IV therapy, or red-light treatments attract more clients and boost revenue.
Conclusion
Starting your beauty business in Metro Atlanta in 2026 comes down to one choice: your business model. Booth rental gives you a low-cost start with a shared space. Suites offer privacy and let you keep all your profits. Franchises provide structure and support for those building larger businesses. Choosing the wrong model and costs can overwhelm you. Choose the right model and Metro Atlanta's growth works in your favor.
Salon Studios Beauty Mall helps hundreds of professionals thrive across East Cobb, Duluth, and other Georgia locations. You get more than a suite with 24/7 access, including utilities and Wi-Fi, on-site managers, and marketing tools like templates, local ads, and community events.
The future of the beauty industry is individual ownership. The demand is here, the market is hot, and the clients are waiting for the personalized experience only you can offer. Call 678-951-8230 or book a tour online to see the spaces in person. Bring your license, your vision, and your drive, and start building your business in Metro Atlanta.

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