Cosmetology at Aveda Institute Portland-Vancouver Campus

Aveda Institute Portland-Vancouver graduates earn nearly $22,000 in their first year—considerably more than the typical cosmetology program nationally ($17,113) and essentially matching the Washington state median. What makes this program particularly compelling is the trajectory: earnings climb to over $28,000 by year four, a 28% increase that suggests graduates are building clientele and skills rather than hitting a ceiling. The debt load of $10,556 is manageable, requiring roughly half a year's first-year earnings to repay.

The state context matters here. Among Washington's 24 cosmetology programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile—solid middle-of-the-pack performance. While schools like Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy produce higher early earnings, Aveda graduates start on competitive footing and show meaningful growth. For a program serving nearly half Pell-eligible students, these outcomes demonstrate genuine economic mobility.

The bottom line: this is a low-risk entry point into cosmetology with room for financial growth. The debt won't be crushing, first-year earnings cover basic expenses, and the upward earnings trend suggests graduates are developing marketable skills. For families concerned about beauty school ROI, these numbers should provide reassurance—this isn't the stereotypical high-debt, low-return cosmetology trap.