New York is one of the most lucrative states in the country for dog groomers — and one of the most demanding. With over 120 open grooming positions at any given time, the third-highest average groomer salary in the nation, and a dog-obsessed population that treats grooming as a non-negotiable expense, the Empire State offers career opportunities you won't find anywhere else.
New York by the Numbers
- Open grooming positions: 120+ across the state
- Average groomer salary: $42,000–$55,000 (varies dramatically by region)
- Top-end earnings (NYC boutique): $70,000–$85,000+ with tips
- Tipping culture: Strongest in the nation — NYC clients tip 20–30% routinely
The NYC Market
Commission-based groomers in NYC boutique salons typically earn 50% commission on services running $100–$200 per standard groom. With tips of 20-30%, daily earnings of $350–$600+ are achievable for experienced groomers. Top NYC groomers report $70,000–$85,000 annually.
Average one-bedroom rent in Manhattan runs $2,800–$3,500/month. Groomers who thrive financially commute from NJ or outer boroughs, share apartments, or have built client books commanding top-tier rates.
NYC Salon Types
High-end boutique (Manhattan, Brooklyn Heights): Premium prices, 3+ years experience expected, strong scissor skills required. Many require working interviews.
Neighborhood salons (all boroughs): More forgiving of experience level, often willing to train through apprenticeship. Pay $35,000–$48,000.
Corporate chains (PetSmart, Petco): Standard corporate pay with benefits. Learn how PetSmart and Petco compare.
Long Island: Suburban Demand, Competitive Pay
Average salary: $40,000–$52,000. High household incomes and dog ownership rates create consistent demand. Rents of $1,800–$2,500 are expensive but significantly cheaper than Manhattan. If you can build a strong client book on Long Island, you'll never be short on work.
Westchester and Hudson Valley
Westchester mirrors Manhattan's willingness to pay premium prices ($42,000–$58,000). The Hudson Valley offers lower salaries ($35,000–$45,000) but dramatically lower living costs.
Upstate New York
Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany average $32,000–$42,000 but with 40–60% lower cost of living. Less competition, affordable business startup costs, and growing markets with strong work-life balance. Check current New York listings.
Top Employers in New York
- PetSmart — Locations throughout the state
- Petco — Multiple locations
- Scenthound — Expanding in metro area
- Dogtopia — Daycare-grooming at select locations
New York does not require a state grooming license, but professional certification is a meaningful competitive advantage in this market.
Making New York Work for Your Career
- Just starting out? Consider corporate positions upstate or Long Island while you build skills.
- Experienced and ambitious? NYC boutique salons offer the highest ceiling in the country.
- Want independence? Upstate offers affordable entry points for your own shop.
- Seeking balance? Long Island and Westchester combine strong pay with suburban quality of life.
Browse all New York grooming jobs or use the job search to filter by city and type.
