Cosmetology at Career Academy of Beauty

Career Academy of Beauty graduates earn less than the national average for cosmetology programs, but the school outperforms most California competitors—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. That's significant context: California's beauty market is notoriously tough for entry-level stylists, with the state median at just $14,600. This program's graduates earn roughly $5,200 more than the typical California cosmetology graduate four years out, suggesting the training translates into above-average client-building skills or placement opportunities.

The debt picture is where parents need to focus. At $6,513, graduates here borrow about $2,300 less than the California average—manageable on a beauty industry income. However, that debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 means your child would owe roughly five months of their first year's salary. The 24% earnings growth from year one to year four shows steady improvement as stylists build their clientele, reaching nearly $20,000 annually.

For families considering this path, the key question is whether beauty school economics make sense at all. Even top California programs like San Jose City College ($23,253 after four years) produce modest earnings. Career Academy positions graduates reasonably well within this constrained landscape, with lower debt than most alternatives. If your child is committed to cosmetology, this represents a middle-of-the-pack bet—not exceptional outcomes, but better than half the options in one of the nation's toughest markets for beauty professionals.