Is being a cosmetologist a good career?
Mia Phillips
Updated on February 15, 2026
As a licensed cosmetologist, you could have many career opportunities available to you. In fact, you could have many careers in your lifetime! Cosmetologists usually have the freedom to work in whichever industry they love. For a future that could have multiple exciting career options, check out cosmetology.
Is cosmetology a fun job?
Besides having a passion for hair, makeup and style, there are other reasons for pursuing a career in cosmetology. Assisting other people to look good is fun and fulfilling. If you enjoy working with your hands and regard yourself a social person, a career as a cosmetologist may be right for you.
What it like being a cosmetologist?
As a cosmetologist, you can come up with and practice brand new hairstyles, show them to clients, and possibly get industry recognition for your great work. You’ll play with colors and textures while doing makeup, and you can carefully attend to clients’ nails, turning them into beautiful masterpieces.
Is Beauty school expensive?
Beauty school isn’t cheap, but it tends to be much more affordable than other types of degree paths. Attending an accredited cosmetology school can cost from about $5,000 to $15,000. And programs do get much more expensive, with top programs estimated to cost from $10,000 to $20,000.
Is Beauty School expensive?
Who is the highest paid cosmetologist?
Table 1. Highest-paying States for Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists (2020 Survey)
| Rank | State | Average Salary i |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Washington | $39,920 |
| 2 | Massachusetts | $38,940 |
| 3 | Wyoming | $34,060 |
| 4 | Hawaii | $33,800 |
Does fafsa cover beauty school?
What you may not realize is that federal aid is available for beauty school students. If you’re interested in hair or makeup, you could be eligible for cosmetology school financial aid, scholarships and more!
Can you make a living as a cosmetologist?
Cosmetologists earned a median of $26,090 per year ($12.54 per hour) as of 2019. The lower-paid cosmetologists (in the 10th percentile) earned an average annual salary of $18,430, while higher-paid cosmetologists (in the 90th percentile) made an average annual salary of $51,870.
What are the risks of being a cosmetologist?
Manicurists and Cosmetologists Face Deadly Health Hazards
- Acetone: headaches; dizziness; skin irritation.
- Formaldehyde: breathing complications; skin irritation; cancer.
- Toluene: cracked skin; headaches; dizziness; numbness; skin irritation; damage to lungs, kidneys and liver; harmful to unborn child if exposed during.
Can you get Pell grants for cosmetology school?
Cosmetology students may be interested in the two following government grant programs: The Federal Pell Grant – This is the most popular of all government financial aid programs. The grant is open to all college-bound students who meet the minimum income requirements.
What is the best college to go to for cosmetology?
Here are the best colleges with a Cosmetology Major
- Harvard University.
- Columbia University.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
- Yale University.
- Stanford University.
- University of Chicago.
- University of Pennsylvania.
- California Institute of Technology.