Cosmetology at Summit Salon Academy

Summit Salon Academy graduates earn roughly $3,500 more than the typical Florida cosmetology graduate one year after finishing—a meaningful edge in a field where most programs cluster in the mid-teens for starting pay. While the program doesn't reach the heights of Florida's community college cosmetology offerings (which top out near $30,000), it lands comfortably in the 60th percentile statewide and performs even better nationally at the 76th percentile.

The debt picture looks manageable at $9,833, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49—meaning graduates owe roughly half their first-year income. That's reasonable for a credential program, especially considering earnings climb to $23,139 by year four, a 15% increase that suggests graduates are building clientele and skills. Nearly half of students receive Pell grants, and the program appears to deliver for students who need financial aid.

For parents wondering if this investment makes sense, the answer hinges on geography and expectations. Your child won't match the earnings of graduates from Florida's state college programs, but they'll likely outperform most other cosmetology schools in the state while keeping debt under $10,000. If your child is committed to the beauty industry and planning to stay in Tampa, this program offers a solid foundation without crushing debt.