Cosmetology at Charles of Italy Beauty College

Charles of Italy Beauty College graduates start at just $12,179—earning nearly half what the typical Arizona cosmetology graduate makes ($21,132) and less than most minimum wage jobs would provide. While the program costs significantly less than most Arizona competitors ($7,000 versus $9,500 statewide median), that relative affordability doesn't offset starting at the 10th percentile among both national and in-state programs. Students here earn roughly $10,000 less annually than graduates from nearby Aveda Institute or Penrose Academy.

The 48% earnings growth by year four brings income to $18,061, which still lags far behind where other Arizona programs start. With 58% of students receiving Pell grants, many here are seeking an affordable path into cosmetology, but the trade-off appears steep—they're paying less upfront but sacrificing years of earning potential. The modest debt load is genuinely manageable, but only because earnings stay low enough that the ratio remains acceptable.

For families prioritizing the lowest sticker price, this program delivers that. However, the earnings gap suggests students may struggle to build sustainable careers, especially in Arizona's competitive beauty market where other schools consistently produce graduates earning $20,000+ from day one.