The short answer
Booth rent means you pay the shop a set amount (weekly or monthly) and keep what you make. Commission means you keep a percentage of each service and the shop keeps the rest. Booth rent rewards a full book; commission is easier on a barber who is still building one.
How booth rent works
You pay a flat rent for your chair, usually weekly. In return you typically set your own prices and hours, keep your own clients and keep your service money after rent. Slow weeks still cost the same rent, so it fits barbers with steady clientele.
Ask the shop what the rent includes: products, towels and laundry, booking software, card processing, parking, and whether there is a late fee.
How commission works
You and the shop split each service, for example 60/40 (you keep 60%). If you have a slow week you pay nothing extra, because the shop only earns when you do. Many shops treat commission barbers as independent contractors, while some hire them as employees. Ask which one it is.
How to choose
Add up what you take home in a normal week each way. If your weekly service total minus rent beats your commission share, booth rent wins. If your book is new or seasonal, commission protects you while you grow.
Either way, get the terms in writing: the split or rent, who owns the client list, notice period, and hours.
Where to find openings
Browse live booth rent and commission openings posted directly by shops on the Book My Barber hiring board. Every listing is open right now.
Common questions
Is booth rent or commission better for a new barber?
Usually commission. You only pay the shop when you earn, which protects you while you build clientele.
What does a 60/40 commission split mean?
You keep 60% of each service and the shop keeps 40%.
Do booth renters set their own prices?
Usually yes. Booth renters typically set their own prices, schedule and keep their own clients, but confirm with the shop.