Average cosmetologist salary. In the United States, the average salary of cosmetologist is $24,421 per annum. The national hourly rate for cosmetologist is from $7.44 – $17.79 with average hourly tips from $0.52 – $5.09 and a top overtime pay of $23.59 per hour.osmetologist salary in USA. In the US, cosmetologist’s salary is based on number of years of experience. A cosmetologist practicing for less than a year collect an annual pay from $18,967 – $28,500. One with 1-4 years or practice receives a national average salary from $14,431 – $38,640.