✂️ Beauty & Personal Services ↑ 8% growth · Faster than average

Cosmetologist / Hair Stylist

Cosmetologists cut, color, style, and chemically treat hair. Top stylists in major cities or building their own clientele can earn well over $100K. Florida's cosmetology license also covers basic skin and nail services.

$33,400 Median Salary
330K US Jobs
12–18 months Training
$8,000–$20,000 Typical Cost

💰 Salary & Earning Potential

Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Figures represent national averages — local wages vary by state, city, and employer.

Entry Level
$23,000
Median
$33,400
Experienced
$65,000
Want your state's salary? Select a state below to see local wage data, demand, and training programs.

📈 Job Outlook

8%
Projected Growth (10yr)
Faster than average
330K
Total US Jobs
Active positions nationwide
State Cosmetologist License
Required Credential
State Cosmetologist License (1500 hrs in FL)

🎓 Training & Education

Typical Program
Cosmetology Diploma
Program Length
12–18 months
Typical Tuition
$8,000–$20,000
Work Setting
Salons, spas, resorts, cruise ships, self-employed
🏆 Credential Required: State Cosmetologist License (1500 hrs in FL)

☀️ Day in the Life

A typical day as a Cosmetologist / Hair Stylist involves working closely with clients and colleagues in a Salons environment. You'll apply your training daily while building expertise and advancing your career.

⚖️ Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • ✅ Strong job security
  • ✅ Rewarding work
  • ✅ Clear career progression
  • ✅ Growing demand

Challenges

  • ⚠️ Can be physically demanding
  • ⚠️ May require ongoing certification
  • ⚠️ Entry-level wages vary by region

🏫 Schools Offering This Program

Public State College
⭐ 95

Miami Dade College

📍 Miami, FL

Florida's largest college (~160K students). Broadest allied health program array in South Florida. Multiple campuses acr...

Nursing (RN)Respiratory CareDental HygieneRadiographySonography
Public State College
⭐ 94

Broward College

📍 Fort Lauderdale, FL

One of FL's largest state colleges serving Broward County. Comprehensive allied health and trades programs....

Nursing (RN)Respiratory CareDental HygieneCVTRadiography
Public State College
⭐ 92

Santa Fe College

📍 Gainesville, FL

Top-rated college in North Central Florida. Particularly strong in veterinary technology, nursing, and trades....

Nursing (RN)Veterinary TechnologyDental HygienePhysical Therapist AssistantEMS
Public State College
⭐ 94

Valencia College

📍 Orlando, FL

Orlando's premier state college serving the Greater Orlando area. Consistently ranked among Florida's best community col...

Nursing (RN)Dental HygieneRadiographyRespiratory CareEMS

🗺️ Cosmetologist / Hair Stylist by State

See local salary data, licensing requirements, and schools in your state: