Cosmetology at Elite School of Cosmetology

Elite School of Cosmetology graduates start at $15,241—below both Ohio's median ($17,110) and the national average for cosmetology programs. While the school performs somewhat better than other Ohio schools (40th percentile in-state versus 29th nationally), it still trails the stronger programs in the state by significant margins. Paul Mitchell the School-Columbus, for example, produces graduates earning $23,788, more than 50% higher than Elite's first-year outcomes.

The debt load of $12,888 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.85, and there's notable income growth—earnings jump 45% to $22,131 by year four. That progression suggests graduates who stay in the field can build sustainable careers. However, even after four years, earnings remain modest compared to what graduates from top Ohio programs achieve in their first year.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether the slightly below-average starting salary is offset by the reasonable debt burden and strong earnings trajectory. Nearly half the students here receive Pell grants, indicating the school serves working-class families where every dollar counts. If your child is committed to cosmetology and has better-performing alternatives nearby, those programs offer clearer financial advantages from day one.