Cosmetology at Empire Beauty School-Reading

Empire Beauty School-Reading delivers below-average early earnings but with a crucial advantage: exceptionally low debt. With median debt of just $13,583 compared to the national average of $9,862 for cosmetology programs, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.87—meaning they can realistically pay off their education within a year of working. Among Pennsylvania cosmetology programs, this ranks in the 40th percentile for earnings, placing it in the middle tier of state options.

The program shows solid earning potential over time, with 30% income growth from year one to year four, reaching $20,441. While first-year earnings of $15,679 fall short of both national ($17,113) and state ($16,236) medians, the relatively low debt burden means graduates aren't drowning in payments while building their client base—a critical factor in cosmetology where income typically grows as you establish relationships and potentially open your own salon.

The bottom line: this program offers a financially sensible path into cosmetology, even if it won't put your child at the top of the earnings ladder immediately. The low debt load provides breathing room to build a career without financial stress, which matters more in this field than starting with the highest possible salary.