Analysis
Aveda Institute-South Florida produces cosmetology graduates who earn solidly above the Florida medianβ$22,309 after four years compared to the state's $16,718. While this ranks in the 60th percentile among Florida's 127 cosmetology programs, it's worth noting that the top-performing programs in the state generate nearly 30% higher earnings, suggesting room for improvement in this competitive field.
The financial picture here is manageable but not exceptional. With $9,000 in median debt and first-year earnings of $17,806, graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51βmeaning debt represents about half of their initial annual income. The 25% earnings growth from year one to year four shows promising career progression in cosmetology, where building a client base and gaining experience typically translates to better pay over time.
For parents considering this investment, Aveda Institute offers a relatively affordable entry into cosmetology with earnings that exceed state averages. However, the modest starting salary means your child should be prepared for lean early years while building their career. The consistent earnings growth and reasonable debt load make this a viable path, though families should understand that cosmetology success often depends heavily on individual hustle and business acumen beyond what any program can teach.
Where Aveda Institute-South Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all cosmetology certificate's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Aveda Institute-South Florida 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aveda Institute-South Florida | $17,806 | $22,309 | +25% |
| Palm Beach State College | $24,361 | $29,926 | +23% |
| Paul Mitchell the School-Fort Lauderdale | $17,570 | $27,864 | +59% |
| Florida Academy | $16,245 | $26,868 | +65% |
| Daytona College | $20,872 | $25,239 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Cosmetology certificate's programs at peer institutions in Florida (127 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| β | $17,806 | $22,309 | $9,000 | 0.51 | |
| $2,878 | $29,668 | $16,935 | $13,577 | 0.46 | |
| $3,050 | $24,361 | $29,926 | $9,500 | 0.39 | |
| $2,348 | $23,911 | $19,755 | $5,500 | 0.23 | |
| β | $22,662 | β | β | β | |
| β | $22,028 | $18,101 | β | β | |
| National Median | β | $17,113 | β | $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 Aveda Institute-South Florida, approximately 33% 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 424 graduates with reported earnings and 488 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.