Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-Greenville

Paul Mitchell the School-Greenville produces solid earners in South Carolina's cosmetology landscape, with graduates earning $19,583 in their first year—significantly above both national and state medians for the field. Among the 28 cosmetology programs in South Carolina, this ranks in the 60th percentile, putting it in the upper tier of state options. Nationally, it performs even better, landing in the 71st percentile among over 1,500 programs.

The debt picture is particularly attractive here. At $13,833, students borrow more than the national median but create a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.71—meaning graduates can expect to earn more than their total debt in their first year alone. This positions students for financial stability much faster than many certificate programs. The school also serves a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients (58%), suggesting it provides accessible career training for students from various economic backgrounds.

With steady earnings growth to $20,755 by year four and debt levels that won't overwhelm new graduates, this program offers a practical path into cosmetology. While it may not produce the absolute highest earners in the state, the combination of above-average income potential and reasonable debt makes it a sound investment for students seeking reliable entry into the beauty industry.