Analysis
Avalon Institute-Phoenix delivers impressive value in cosmetology training, ranking in the 88th percentile nationally for graduate earnings while keeping debt manageable. With first-year earnings of $21,496—significantly above the national median of $17,113—graduates here earn about $4,400 more annually than typical cosmetology program alumni. The debt load of $8,081 is also below both national and Arizona averages, creating a healthy debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38.
Within Arizona, this program performs solidly at the 60th percentile, though it trails some premium competitors like Southwest Institute of Healing Arts ($26,795) and the Aveda institutes ($23,086). However, when you factor in the lower debt burden, Avalon offers a compelling middle ground. The 12% earnings growth from year one to year four shows graduates can build their careers effectively, and with 65% of students receiving Pell grants, the program serves a diverse student body successfully.
For parents concerned about return on investment, this program delivers strong fundamentals: above-average earnings potential, below-average debt, and solid career progression in a stable field. While not the highest-earning cosmetology program in Arizona, it represents excellent value for students seeking professional training without excessive financial risk.
Where Avalon Institute-Phoenix Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Avalon Institute-Phoenix 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Avalon Institute-Phoenix | $21,496 | $24,140 | +12% |
| Pure Aesthetics Natural Skincare School | $21,125 | $31,813 | +51% |
| Penrose Academy | $23,700 | $31,518 | +33% |
| Aveda Institute-Tucson | $23,086 | $26,437 | +15% |
| Aveda Institute-Phoenix | $23,086 | $26,437 | +15% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (24 total in state)
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| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 Avalon Institute-PhoenixPhoenix | $21,496 | $24,140 | $8,081 | 0.38 |
 Southwest Institute of Healing ArtsTempe | $26,795 | $22,250 | $9,500 | 0.35 |
 Penrose AcademyScottsdale | $23,700 | $31,518 | $8,043 | 0.34 |
 Aveda Institute-TucsonTucson | $23,086 | $26,437 | $10,555 | 0.46 |
| Aveda Institute-PhoenixTempe | $23,086 | $26,437 | $10,555 | 0.46 |
 International Barber CollegeChandler | $22,925 | — | $16,500 | 0.72 |
| 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 Avalon Institute-Phoenix, approximately 65% 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 748 graduates with reported earnings and 875 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.