Cosmetology at Empire Beauty School-Shamokin Dam

Empire Beauty School-Shamokin Dam delivers solid value for cosmetology training, with graduates earning slightly below the national average but performing better within Pennsylvania's competitive landscape. At $16,429 in first-year earnings, graduates earn about $700 less than the national median but nearly $200 more than the typical Pennsylvania cosmetology graduate, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide.

The financial picture is notably favorable compared to most beauty schools. With median debt of $13,583, students here borrow only about $275 more than the state average but significantly less than many competitors—this program ranks in the 16th percentile nationally for debt, meaning 84% of similar programs saddle students with more debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.83 means graduates can reasonably expect to pay off their loans within their first year of working, assuming disciplined budgeting.

While this isn't among Pennsylvania's top-tier programs (which can produce graduates earning $20,000+), the combination of reasonable debt levels and steady earnings growth (21% increase by year four) makes this a practical choice. For families prioritizing affordability over maximum earning potential, Empire Beauty School-Shamokin Dam offers a straightforward path into the cosmetology field without overwhelming debt burdens.