Analysis
Arrojo Cosmetology School produces graduates who earn $25,400 four years out—a significant 37% jump from their first-year earnings of $18,528. While that starting salary sits modestly above New York's median for cosmetology programs (60th percentile), what makes this program notable is the upward trajectory paired with relatively manageable debt of $10,666. In a field where many schools leave students with similar debt but stagnant earnings, Arrojo's graduates appear to build momentum over time.
That said, the gap between Arrojo and New York's highest-earning programs is substantial—top schools like Aesthetic Science Institute see graduates earning $22,638 right out of the gate. If your child can secure admission to one of these stronger performers, the faster earnings ramp could justify exploring those options first. The 60th percentile placement suggests Arrojo occupies middle ground: better than most NY cosmetology programs, but not elite.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 means graduates owe about seven months of their first-year income—manageable by cosmetology standards, especially given the earnings growth that follows. For a student committed to building a career in beauty rather than just securing a license, Arrojo's combination of reasonable cost and improving outcomes offers a workable path forward, though not necessarily the fastest one to financial stability.
Where Arrojo Cosmetology School Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Arrojo Cosmetology School graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrojo Cosmetology School | $18,528 | $25,400 | +37% |
| Paul Mitchell the School-Schenectady | $17,570 | $27,864 | +59% |
| New York School of Esthetics & Day Spa | $20,531 | $25,426 | +24% |
| The Salon Professional Academy-Tonawanda | $17,534 | $25,281 | +44% |
| Aesthetic Science Institute | $22,638 | $25,225 | +11% |
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in New York (46 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $18,528 | $25,400 | $10,666 | 0.58 | |
| $22,638 | $25,225 | $6,333 | 0.28 | |
| $22,221 | $12,258 | $9,500 | 0.43 | |
| $22,092 | $22,106 | $9,847 | 0.45 | |
| $21,516 | $24,650 | $6,333 | 0.29 | |
| $20,531 | $25,426 | $6,625 | 0.32 | |
| National Median | $17,113 | — | $9,862 | 0.58 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with cosmetology graduates
Skincare Specialists
Barbers
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists
Manicurists and Pedicurists
Personal Service Managers, All Other
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
Spa Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance
Shampooers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Arrojo Cosmetology School, approximately 17% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 122 graduates with reported earnings and 143 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.