Cosmetology at Meridian College

Most cosmetology programs struggle to generate strong earnings, but Meridian College graduates are clearing $22,000 in their first year—outperforming 80% of Florida cosmetology programs and 91% nationally. That's $5,000 more than the typical Florida graduate and nearly $5,000 above the national median. Among the 127 Florida schools offering this credential, only a handful of public technical colleges produce better outcomes. The $12,545 in debt sits below the national median, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.57 that most graduates should be able to handle.

The caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so these numbers could shift with more students tracked. Still, the combination of above-average earnings and below-average debt represents a meaningful advantage in a field where many programs leave students earning $17,000 or less. With 58% of students receiving Pell grants, the school clearly serves working-class families who need credentials that pay off quickly.

If your child is committed to cosmetology, this program shows promise—it's producing better results than most alternatives in Florida. Just understand that even the best cosmetology outcomes start around $22,000, which means careful budgeting will be essential regardless of where they enroll.