35 Best Cosmetology Schools Across the US with their Current Fees

The best cosmetology schools discussed in this blog post will equip you with a wide range of skillsets that you can make a career out of or apply to yourself.

Cosmetology is a field that is growing at a rapid pace and this progress is projected to continue as the years go by producing even more career options. It is mostly applied in the medical and theatrical fields, that is, movies and other art performances.

Before going any further, let’s take a look at what cosmetology means.

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What is Cosmetology

Cosmetology is the professional skill or practice of beautifying the face, hair, and skin. These skills can be gained by attending the right schools such as the best cosmetology schools listed and discussed in this blog post.

In common sense, cosmetology is a daily practice if we look at it from a general point of view. Before going for that interview, a lecture, a date, or an event you do want to look good. Therefore, you apply some makeup, do your hair nicely, get your nails done, etc. so that you can look and feel nice and confident wherever you may be.

But it doesn’t end here. It has been re-branded and taken to the next level as a study field that leads to various career opportunities. And today, you can study cosmetology and earn a degree, diploma, or certificate. Whichever one you get means that you have received professional training to practice as a cosmetologist and kick start a career in the field.

As a cosmetologist, you will study the application of beauty treatments, hair styling, skincare, cosmetics, manicures and pedicures, and temporary or permanent hair removal. Cosmetology is a huge business in South Korea and if you take it to the next level you will see yourself working with top researchers, physicians, organizations, and health care facilities.

This would also open bigger opportunities for you. But before getting started, you need to start learning from the foundation by attending a cosmetology school to gain adequate practical skills and learn all involved techniques.

How to Find a Good Cosmetology School Near Me

Finding a good cosmetology school near you is easy, thanks to the internet and search engines.
Simply use one of the search engines like Google, Bing, or Yandex and type in the keyword “cosmetology schools in (input location)” in the text box. For example, if you stay in Texas, US, simply type in “cosmetology schools in Texas” and hit enter or search button.

This should show you the results of cosmetology schools in that your specific location. And if you use the Google search engine, you will see a list of all the schools located on the map and directions on how to get there from your location.

Another way to find cosmetology schools near you is to ask your friends, family, neighbors, teachers, and even your cosmetology. They should be able to provide you with any information they have.

Where Can A Cosmetologist Work?

As a cosmetologist, you can work at a salon, spa, hotels, cruise ships, tattoo studios, dermatologist office, film and TV industry, or resorts. You could also own a salon or a spa.

How Long Does it Take to Become a Cosmetologist?

The amount of time it takes to become a cosmetologist varies on the program you pursue. While it takes a few months to earn a certificate, it takes 2 years to earn an associate degree. On average, it can take four to five years to complete cosmetology training and licensing.

How to Become a Licensed Cosmetologist

To become a licensed cosmetologist, here is a list of steps you need to take;

  • You have to be above 16 years old and have a high school diploma or GED
  • Enroll into an accredited cosmetology school
  • Meet the requirements to complete course works
  • Choose a specialty and complete the required training hours
  • After graduating from cosmetology school you must take the licensing exam
  • Pass the exam to receive your license

Once you pass the exam and obtain your license you are now ready to practice as a cosmetologist.

What is the Average Salary for a Cosmetologist?

The average salary of a cosmetologist is $31,431 per year.

This blog post carefully provides details on the best cosmetology schools across the United States and we have hand-picked some of the popular locations and discussed the best cosmetology schools there.

Best Cosmetology Schools in New York

Here is a list of the best cosmetology schools in New York:

  • American Beauty School
  • Capri Cosmetology Learning Centers
  • Midway Paris Beauty School
  • Continental School of Beauty
  • Aveda Institutes

1.      American Beauty School

The American Beauty School is one of the best cosmetology schools located in Metropolitan Avenue, Bronx, New York. This school has been operating for more than 50 years and is deeply experienced in the cosmetology field. ABS strives to train students to conquer the challenges of the beauty world.

The cosmetology program teaches and equips you with a variety of skills such as makeup, hair cutting, braids, business development, waxing, etc. to prepare you for careers in a stylist, manicurist, salon owner, esthetician, and instructor. International students are also accepted but every applicant must be over 17 years old and completed high school.

The program takes 8 months to complete and the tuition fee is $8,190.

Website link

2.      Capri Cosmetology Learning Centers

This cosmetology school has campuses in Nanuet and Newburgh, both located in New York. Hairdressing & Cosmetology among other programs are offered and classes are held during the day and in the evening for you to choose a schedule that would not disrupt your responsibilities.

Also, several different start dates are offered throughout the year so that you can apply whenever you are ready. The hairdressing & cosmetology program is 1,000 hours long, completed in 7.5 months for daily schedule and 15 months for night schedule, and covers education in nails, make-up, hair, and skincare.

The tuition fee is $13,100 and financial aid opportunities are offered to students who qualify.

Website link

3.      Midway Paris Beauty School

On our third list of the best cosmetology schools in New York is the Midway Paris Beauty School, a school with more than 60 years of experience dedicated to training and preparing students to possess adequate skills in the cosmetology field. And the program is designed to fit everyone.

There are day and evening schedules, full-time and part-time options, online learning, and financial aid opportunities for those who qualify. The tuition fee is $12,700 and the program length is 9 months

Website link

4.      Continental School of Beauty

The Continental School of Beauty is one of the best cosmetology schools with three campuses in Rochester, Syracuse, and West Seneca, New York. It is a 60-year old school dedicated to fulfilling your passion to succeed in the beauty industry.

The hairdressing & cosmetology program here is a 1,000-hour program that you can complete in just over 8 months as a full-time day program at any of the campuses. The tuition fee costs $12,440 and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Website link

5.      Aveda Institutes

Last but not least on best cosmetology school in New York is Aveda Institutes, a prestigious academy in the US for providing education in cosmetology, etiology, and massage therapy. The cosmetology training program will prepare you for a rewarding career in the beauty field.

The program length is 8 months and the tuition fee costs $16,995.

Website link

These are the 5 best cosmetology schools in New York, their location, programs duration, and tuition fees. Follow the respective links to apply for any of the schools that pique your interest

Best Cosmetology Schools in Los Angeles

Fully discussed here are the best cosmetology schools in Los Angeles:

  • Michael Vincent Academy Beauty Institute
  • Cinema Makeup School
  • Academy for Salon Professionals
  • JLS Professional Makeup Artist School
  • Academy of Beauty

1.      Michael Vincent Academy Beauty Institute

This is a nationally recognized cosmetology school in Los Angeles offering a wide range of online and in-person courses such as bridal makeup artistry, hair artistry, digital makeup, advanced makeup, and many more. These programs are flexible and designed to make you a professional in the field.

You can enroll in any of the programs that meet your specific training needs. Each of the programs has different fees but expect it to be around $600 and above. The learning is self-paced and you have access to the training every time.

Website link

2.      Cinema Makeup School

The Cinema Makeup School teaches you basic to advanced cosmetology skills that you can apply in the professional world of films and fashion. The program options include comprehensive tracks, diploma programs, core classes, and workshops and seminars.

The tuition differs by the program you apply for ranging from $3,000 to $30,000 with the diploma program being the most expensive.

Website link

3.      Academy for Salon Professionals

Academy for Salon Professionals is one of the best cosmetology schools and do not let the name confuse you into thinking they only train salon owners. The school equally trains people with no prior knowledge of cosmetology and equips them with adequate skills to make them professionals in the industry.

The cosmetology program is 1600 course hours and you can apply for financial aid and scholarships options available on the website.

Website link

4.      JLS Professional Makeup Artist School

JLS is one of the best cosmetology schools in Los Angeles, offering only advanced and professional courses. Those already in the field who want to upgrade their skills or learn a set of skills will find the courses here satisfactory. Some of the courses are held online, in the studio, or both, and the schedules are designed to fit your busy life.

The cost of each course is $1,850 and takes one week to complete and become a certified pro-makeup artist.

Website link

5.      Academy of Beauty

On our final list of best cosmetology schools in LA is the Academy of Beauty, a school dedicated to offering training that prepares students for a career in the beauty world and obtaining their license to explore every opportunity that comes their way.

The cosmetology program has different program schedules designed to fit your lifestyle and responsibilities. The course can be completed in 10 to 20 months depending on the program you choose. The tuition fee is $8,975 but international students will pay an extra fee of $3,000.

Website link

Best Cosmetology Schools in California

Here are the best cosmetology schools in California with their tuition and program details discussed.

  • California Beauty College
  • Palomar Institute of Cosmetology
  • International College of Cosmetology
  • Bellus Academy
  • Saba Beauty School

1.      California Beauty College

On our first list of best cosmetology schools in California is the California Beauty College that offers programs in cosmetology, nail technician, and esthetics. The cosmetology program takes 12 months to complete and costs $19,651.

Website link

2.      Palomar Institute of Cosmetology

The Palomar Institute of Cosmetology offers training programs in cosmetology, esthetics, and manicuring. Through the cosmetology program, you will gain the skill you will need to begin a career in the beauty industry.

The cosmetology program is a 1600 hour program of theory and practical teaching your hair styling and cutting, facials, hair removal, nail technology, coloring, and more. The tuition cost is $16,240.

Website link

3.      International College of Cosmetology

This is one of the best cosmetology schools in California offering a 1600 hour cosmetology program to offer you skills required to kick start a successful career in the beauty field. Other programs such as manicure, esthetics, makeup artistry, etc. are also offered.

The cosmetology program takes 10 months to complete making you become a professional in makeup, hair removal, facials, manicuring and pedicuring, coloring, etc. Part-time programs are also offered but take 16-24 months to complete. International students are equally welcome to apply.

Website link

4.      Bellus Academy

At Bellus Academy, you don’t just earn professional cosmetology skills but also gain knowledge on how to successfully run a cosmetology enterprise. The 1600 hour cosmetology program takes approximately 11 months to complete for the daily schedule and 16 months to complete the night schedule.

The program is done this way to allow you to go for the one that fits your needs. New classes also start every month. The tuition fee is $16,925.

Website link

5.      Saba Beauty School

Saba Beauty School has two campuses in Lake Forest and Santa Ana, California. It is one of the best cosmetology schools in California. The cosmetology course prepares students for an exciting career in the beauty industry and to prepares them for the state licensing examination.

Website link

Best Cosmetology Schools in Texas

The following are the best cosmetology schools in Texas for you to select from:

  • Central Texas Beauty College
  • Avenue Five Institute
  • Tint School of Makeup & Cosmetology
  • Baldwin Beauty Schools
  • DuVall’s School of Cosmetology

1.      Central Texas Beauty College

At the Central Texas Beauty College, get ready for the rigorous classwork, hands-on training, and more to make you become a professional in the cosmetology field. The college is one of the best cosmetology schools in Texas and is prestigious in the area.

The course work for the cosmetology program is 1,000 hours and you will learn manicuring, facials, chemistry, styling, coloring, and a lot more. The tuition fee is $9,000 and scholarships are provided to ensure students graduate without any debt.

Website link

2.      Avenue Five Institute

Avenue Five Institute is one of the best cosmetology schools in Austin, Texas, and offers hands-on cosmetology, esthetics, and massage programs. The institute combines hybrid learning options to deliver training and teaching on cosmetology.

It is a 1000-hour program offered in the afternoons and evenings for you to choose a preferred schedule. The tuition fee is $18,852 and financial aid opportunities are available.

Website link

3.      Tint School of Makeup & Cosmetology

Tint offers cosmetology courses in Irving and Grand Prairie and upon completion, graduates get a diploma. It is a 1,000-hour course that takes 37 weeks to complete and you will gain skills in advanced creative styling and much more to make you a professional in the industry. The total cost of attendance is $35,638.

Website link

4.      Baldwin Beauty Schools

The Baldwin Beauty School is one of the best cosmetology schools in Austin, Texas. Applications are accepted all year round into the cosmetology program and the tuition fee is a total of $14,900. The program can be completed in 8 months or 34 weeks.

Website link

5.      DuVall’s School of Cosmetology

This is a top cosmetology school in Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas and its cosmetology program is the most suitable program among students. The program is offered in full-time and part-time study options that are completed in 7-8 months and 9-10 months respectively.

Enrollment is offered all through the year and the program costs $17,550.

Website link

Best Cosmetology Schools in Florida

The best cosmetology schools in Florida have been outlined and discussed in this section:

  • Boca Beauty
  • Kaizen Beauty Academy Academy
  • Florida Academy of Health and Beauty
  • Artistic School of Nails & Cosmetology
  • Academy of Cosmetology

1.      Boca Beauty Academy

On our first list of best cosmetology schools in Florida is the Boca Beauty Academy. The academy has two campuses in Boca Raton and Parkland. Both campuses offer cosmetology training that takes 40 weeks to complete. You must complete 1200 hours of the program to be eligible to take the license exam.

Admissions into the cosmetology program are offered all year round. International students can also apply for the program. The total tuition fee is $26,096.

Apply Here

2.      Kaizen Beauty Academy

At Kaizen Beauty Academy, you can enroll in the cosmetology program as a part-time or full-time student. The part-time program takes 14 months to complete while the full-time program takes 10 months to complete. The program offers you appropriate business and professional training to be successful in the beauty industry

The tuition fee is approximately $34,864, scholarships are available for you to apply.

Website link

3.      Florida Academy of Health and Beauty

This is one of the best beauty schools in Florida offering programs in cosmetology, full specialist, barber or stylist, and nail technician. Full-time and part-time study options are available for the cosmetology program which takes 10 and 15 months respectively to complete.

Students with no prior or existing knowledge of cosmetology will find this school more suitable. The tuition fee is $8,050 and scholarships are available.

Website link

4.      Artistic School of Nails & Cosmetology

This is one of the best cosmetology schools in Orlando, Florida, offering programs in cosmetology, facial specialist, full specialist, and more. The cosmetology program includes hair, manicuring, and facial. The program requires you to complete 1200 hours of theory and training to take the licensure exam.

The tuition fee for the cosmetology program is $1,200 per hour.

Website link

5.      Academy of Cosmetology

On our final list of best cosmetology courses in Florida is the Academy of Cosmetology, a prestigious beauty school dedicated to preparing and training students in professional cosmetology, skin care, manicuring, teacher training, etc. to kick start a successful career in the beauty industry.

The tuition fee is $965 and is the cheapest so far.

Website link

Best Cosmetology Schools in Michigan

The state of Michigan also has its share of the best cosmetology schools in the US, take a look at them below.

1.      Michigan College of Beauty

The Michigan College of Beauty offers training programs in cosmetology, nail technician, and advanced esthetics. The cosmetology course will equip you with skills in all forms of hair services, facials, and business ethics to make your career successful.

Interested applicants must be at least 17 years old and be committed to the 1500 hour training to get a state license. The tuition fee is $16,000.

Website link

2.      Elevate Salon Institute

Elevate Salon Institute is one of the best cosmetology schools in Michigan offering you an amazing opportunity to pursue a cosmetology program to earn licensure and take your skill to the next level. Total program hour is the typical 1500 hours which you can complete in 45 weeks of full-time study or 94 weeks of part-time study.

The tuition fee is $15,500 but there are grants and scholarships that you can apply for to offset the tuition load.

Website link

3.      David Presley School of Cosmetology

David Presley School of Cosmetology is one of the best cosmetology schools with two campuses in Royal Oak and Taylor, Michigan to serve the upcoming cosmetologists and beauticians in the area. Students are trained to work on hair, skin, and nails and are further prepared to take the state license exam.

The total cost of attending the David Presley School of Cosmetology is $46,163.

Website link

4.      Charm Beauty School

Add charm to your cosmetology career by enrolling in this beauty school and gaining advanced skills that will transition your career to the next level. It is one of the best cosmetology schools located in Dearborn Heights, Michigan.

Aside from cosmetology, other programs offered are makeup artist, hairstylist, esthetician, the art of nail technology, and barber crossover. You can apply for any of the courses any time of the year and choose a program that fits your needs.

Website link

5.      Creative Hair School of Cosmetology

The cosmetology program here is a 50-week course that prepares students with hands-on training in hairstyling, haircutting, hair coloring, braiding, makeup, and manicuring. The program cost is $16,000 which includes tuition, registration fees, books and kits, and application fee.

Website link

Best Cosmetology Schools in Georgia

Carefully go through the best cosmetology schools in Georgia and read the details of each school given further below.

1.      Hogan Institute of Cosmetology and Esthetics

This is one of the best cosmetology schools located in Lilburn, Georgia, and offers a 1,500-hour cosmetology program as mandated by the Georgia State Board of Cosmetology. Students are trained with hands-on skills in areas as such as makeup, thermal and wet hairstyling, salon management, and more.

Full-time morning and evening classes are offered as well as part-time morning and evening classes to let you choose a schedule that fits your busy life. The tuition fee is $18,700.

Website link

2.      Atlanta Beauty and Barber Academy

ABBA offers a master cosmetology program that takes 1500 hours to complete and develops your knowledge and skill in the operation of cosmetology arts and sciences. The program is also scheduled to work with your busy life.

There is the full-time program that requires 30 hours per week and three different part-time schedules that require 25 hours per week, 22 hours per week, and 21 hours per week respectively. The tuition fee is $10,000.

Website link

3.      Georgia Career Institute

The institute is one of the best cosmetology schools with three campuses in Conyers, Murfreesboro, and McMinnville, Georgia. Programs offered are nail technology, cosmetology, esthetics, and massage therapy.

To earn the cosmetology license, you need to complete the 1500 hour training offered in a day and evening schedule then sit for the exam. The tuition fee is $21,040.

Website link

4.      Millennium Beauty Institute

MBI offers a cosmetology training program equipping you with skills in pedicure, nail sculpting, brow shaping, makeup, hair design, and a dozen other skills. Through these skills, you will be employment-ready or efficiently run your own spa.

Programs are offered in full-time, part-time, and weekend schedules. The total program cost is $17,600.

Website link

5.      Allure Beauty School

On our final list of the best cosmetology schools is Allure Beauty School, a cosmetology school located in Lilburn, Georgia. The school offers a master of cosmetology program that teaches about skincare, makeup application, saloon management, and more.

The 1500 hour cosmetology program is designed to help you succeed in the beauty industry and earn a professional license. The program cost is $11,500 and includes a student kit and the cost of books.

Website link

This wraps up the article on the best cosmetology schools across the US with current fees. Follow the provided links of each of the schools for more information on application dates and deadlines.

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