Cosmetology at Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers

Hollywood Institute of Beauty Careers' cosmetology program delivers below-average earnings with typical debt levels, making it a concerning investment in Florida's competitive beauty education market. With first-year earnings of $15,540, graduates earn about $1,200 less than the Florida median and $1,500 below the national average—ranking in just the 32nd percentile nationally and 40th percentile within Florida.

The numbers become more troubling when you see what's possible elsewhere in the state. Top Florida programs like Florida State College at Jacksonville ($29,668) and Palm Beach State College ($24,361) produce graduates earning nearly double what this program delivers. Even mid-tier options significantly outperform Hollywood Institute, suggesting this school isn't maximizing students' earning potential in the beauty industry.

While the $9,500 debt load is manageable and matches Florida's median, the weak earnings mean graduates face a debt-to-income ratio of 0.61—higher than ideal for a field where many professionals start their own businesses and need financial flexibility. The minimal 7% earnings growth over four years also suggests limited career advancement opportunities for graduates.

For a field as hands-on as cosmetology, your child would likely be better served at a Florida state college or technical school that demonstrates stronger job placement and earnings outcomes. The beauty industry offers good career prospects in Florida, but this particular program underdelivers compared to readily available alternatives.