Beauty
What it costs to become a beauty pro
Cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, and nail tech: licensing hours, school cost, and what you'll actually earn.
- All-in cost, across 3 careers
- $4,550 – $25,716
- Time to qualify
- 3 – 24 months
Cosmetologist All-in cost $6,216 $25,716 Time 7–18 mo Median pay $35,790/yr Esthetician All-in cost $4,550 $14,245 Time 3–9 mo Median pay $45,330/yr Barber All-in cost $16,190 $19,640 Time 6–24 mo Median pay $38,210/yr
| Career | All-in cost | Time to qualify | Median pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cosmetologist | $6,216 – $25,716 | 7 – 18 months | $35,790 |
| Esthetician | $4,550 – $14,245 | 3 – 9 months | $45,330 |
| Barber | $16,190 – $19,640 | 6 – 24 months | $38,210 |
Each figure comes from that career's page, where its sources are listed.