Cosmetology at Hays Academy of Hair Design

Hays Academy graduates earn about $1,500 less than the typical Kansas cosmetology program graduate by year one, placing them in the 40th percentile statewide—below the state median of $20,465. While first-year earnings of $17,620 barely exceed the national average, Kansas students generally do better, with top programs in the state reaching $22,000+. The relatively modest debt load of $9,833 keeps the financial burden manageable, but you're still looking at a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 in that crucial first year when bills come due.

The 25% earnings growth to nearly $22,000 by year four represents a meaningful improvement, though it takes time to get there. This pattern is fairly typical in cosmetology, where building a client base drives income growth. For a Kansas family, the question becomes whether starting $3,000 behind the state median is acceptable given the lower cost of living in Hays compared to urban areas like Overland Park, where some higher-earning programs are located.

Bottom line: This program delivers exactly what the national numbers would predict, but Kansas families should know their in-state alternatives typically provide stronger early earnings. If your student is committed to staying in or near Hays, the manageable debt makes this workable. If they're willing to relocate for training, programs in Johnson County or Topeka show notably stronger outcomes.