Cosmetology at Tenaj Salon Institute

Tenaj Salon Institute positions in the middle of Florida's cosmetology landscape—earning $18,495 four years out, which ranks in the 60th percentile statewide. That's ahead of the median Florida graduate but reveals a crucial reality: even the strongest programs in this field deliver modest absolute earnings. Florida State College at Jacksonville's top performers earn $29,668, showing the ceiling is relatively low no matter where you train.

The $11,020 debt load sits slightly above both state and national medians, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.65. That's manageable—graduates can realistically repay this amount on cosmetology wages—but the narrow earnings growth of just 8% over four years means there's little room for income to outpace living costs. Most cosmetology careers depend heavily on tips, client relationships, and entrepreneurial hustle rather than credential pedigree.

For families considering this path, understand you're investing $11,000 to enter a field where mid-$20,000s represents success even at Florida's best programs. If your child is passionate about hair and beauty, this program provides adequate preparation without excessive debt. But the financial returns depend far more on their business acumen and work ethic than where they earned their certificate. The debt is reasonable; the earnings potential is simply what it is across this entire industry.