Cosmetology at Florida Barber Academy

Florida Barber Academy's cosmetology program produces some of the lowest earnings among Florida's 127 beauty schools. Graduates earn just $13,332 in their first year—about $3,400 less than the state median and ranking in the bottom quarter statewide. Meanwhile, you're taking on $13,000 in debt, which nearly equals that entire first year's salary. For context, nearby Palm Beach State College's cosmetology graduates earn $24,361, almost double what this program delivers.

The numbers improve modestly over time, with earnings climbing to $17,317 by year four (a 30% increase), but that still leaves graduates earning less than what they could make right out of the gate at better programs. The high Pell Grant percentage (61%) suggests this school serves students who can least afford a weak outcome. When top Florida programs like Florida State College at Jacksonville produce median earnings over $29,000, the gap becomes harder to justify.

Unless there are exceptional circumstances—like a guaranteed job opportunity or specific training not available elsewhere—Florida families should strongly consider the state's public technical colleges and community colleges for cosmetology training. They consistently deliver better earnings at lower or comparable debt levels.