Cosmetology at Paul Mitchell the School-Portsmouth

Paul Mitchell Portsmouth stands out nationally—95th percentile for cosmetology earnings—but that comparison is somewhat misleading given how poorly most cosmetology programs perform. Within New Hampshire, this program sits at the 60th percentile, trailing the three Empire Beauty School locations that place graduates earning $24,000 in their first year. That $750 gap might seem small, but in a field where first-year earnings hover around $23,000, it represents nearly two weeks of additional work.

The financial picture is manageable: $9,833 in debt represents just five months of first-year earnings, well below concerning levels. More importantly, earnings show healthy momentum, growing 39% to reach $32,417 by year four—suggesting graduates are building clientele and advancing their careers rather than stalling out. This growth trajectory is particularly notable in cosmetology, where many workers see little income progression.

For a child serious about a cosmetology career, this program delivers reasonable preparation at an acceptable price. The debt burden won't be crushing, and the four-year earnings suggest graduates are finding their footing in the industry. However, if you're choosing among New Hampshire schools, the Empire locations appear to give graduates a slightly stronger start, though Paul Mitchell's brand recognition may offer advantages that don't show up in immediate earnings data.