Phillip EdwinLos Angeles is a premier destination for aspiring beauty professionals, offering a wide array of cosmetology schools that cater to various career paths and learning styles. From affordable community college programs and specialized private academies to comprehensive institutions offering multiple beauty disciplines, the city provides abundant opportunities for students seeking licensure in cosmetology, esthetics, barbering, and nail technology.
This guide highlights twenty of the best cosmetology schools in Los Angeles, based on program offerings, reputation, and student outcomes.
Top 20 Cosmetology Schools in Los Angeles
1. Los Angeles Trade-Technical College
Los Angeles Trade-Technical College offers one of the oldest and most established cosmetology programs in the city, with a comprehensive curriculum covering cosmetology, esthetician, and barbering pathways on one campus . The 1,000-hour cosmetology program is delivered over two years and four semesters, with day and evening tracks available to accommodate diverse schedules . Day classes run Monday through Thursday from 12:30 PM to 7 PM, while evening classes meet Monday through Friday from 4:30 PM to 9:50 PM.
The program is notably affordable, with California resident tuition at $46 per unit, bringing total tuition to roughly $1,400 to $2,500, plus kit and books . In a recent year, the program graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees, reflecting its substantial enrollment and impact. Students must complete the full LACCD college application process, including placement assessment, counselor appointment, and orientation, typically taking 4 to 8 weeks before registering for classes.
2. Citrus College
Located in Glendora, Citrus College is a large public two-year college that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs with impressive graduation numbers . In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees, making it one of the largest producers of beauty professionals in the region. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with both practical training and academic credentials .
With a student-teacher ratio of 77:1 and over 10,000 enrolled students, Citrus College provides a dynamic learning environment for aspiring beauty professionals. The program serves the eastern San Gabriel Valley and prepares students for various careers in the beauty industry with a focus on comprehensive training and skill development.
3. American Beauty College
Located in West Covina, American Beauty College is a private for-profit institution that offers focused cosmetology and barbering programs to students in the Los Angeles area. In a recent year, the college awarded many degrees across all programs, with numerous degrees in General Cosmetology and many in Barbering.
The student body is diverse, with a majority of degrees awarded to women and the most common race/ethnicity group being Hispanic or Latino recipients. American Beauty College also offers a Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor program, with several graduates earning certificates in a recent year . The school’s focused curriculum and practical training approach prepare students for state licensure and entry into the beauty profession.
4. Golden West College
Located in Huntington Beach, Golden West College is a large public two-year college with a strong cosmetology program that produces numerous graduates annually. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, combining hands-on training with academic coursework to prepare students for careers in the beauty industry.
With a student-teacher ratio of 84:1 and over 10,000 enrolled students, Golden West College provides a comprehensive educational experience for aspiring beauty professionals. The program serves the Orange County region with a commitment to practical skill development and career preparation.
5. Career Academy of Beauty
Career Academy of Beauty in Garden Grove is a private for-profit institution that offers comprehensive cosmetology training to students in the Los Angeles area. In a recent year, the academy graduated many cosmetology students, all earning certificates, making it a significant producer of beauty professionals in the region. The institution offers five cosmetology degree programs, providing students with a range of training options to suit their career goals.
The academy also offers a Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor program, with several graduates earning certificates in a recent year . Career Academy of Beauty’s focused curriculum and practical training approach prepare students for state licensure and successful careers in the beauty industry.
6. Fullerton College
Fullerton College is a large public two-year college that offers strong cosmetology programs to students in the Orange County area. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers two cosmetology degree programs, combining hands-on training with academic coursework to prepare students for careers in the beauty industry.
With a large student body and comprehensive facilities, Fullerton College provides a dynamic learning environment for aspiring beauty professionals. The program serves the Orange County region with a focus on practical skill development, career preparation, and successful transition to the workforce.
7. Cerritos College
Located in Norwalk, Cerritos College is a very large public two-year college that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs with a substantial number of graduates. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees.
The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with both practical training and academic credentials. With a strong focus on hands-on learning and real-world experience, Cerritos College prepares students for various careers in the beauty industry. The program serves a diverse student body and is known for its comprehensive curriculum and supportive learning environment.
8. Saddleback College
Located in Mission Viejo, Saddleback College is a very large public two-year college that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs to students in the Orange County region. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees.
The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, combining hands-on training with academic coursework to prepare students for careers in the beauty industry. With a student-teacher ratio of 81:1 and over 20,000 enrolled students, Saddleback College provides a dynamic learning environment for aspiring beauty professionals. The program focuses on practical skill development and career preparation.
9. Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy
Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy, located in Santa Fe Springs, offers accelerated cosmetology training designed to get students licensed and earning in a shorter timeframe. The 1,000-hour cosmetology program is completed in just over 8 months full-time, with daytime classes running Tuesday through Saturday.
The academy posted a higher California State Board cosmetology pass rate than a major competitor in a recent year, reflecting its strong exam preparation. Tuition is $17,560 total, including all fees, kit, and books, and the school participates in federal financial aid programs. Beyond also offers esthetician and nail technician programs, with evening tracks available for estheticians.
10. Compton College
Compton College is a medium-sized public two-year college that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs to students in the South Los Angeles area. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, awarding numerous certificates and associate degrees. The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with both practical training and academic credentials.
The program serves the Compton community and surrounding areas with a focus on accessible, high-quality beauty education. Students benefit from hands-on training in modern facilities and experienced faculty instruction.
11. KC Beauty Academy
Located in Los Angeles, KC Beauty Academy is a trade school that offers six vocational programs in the beauty and grooming fields. The largest program is Aesthetician/Esthetician and Skin Care Specialist, with tuition of $10,000 and a program length of 600 hours, typically completed in 5 months. The cosmetology program costs $11,500 for 1,000 hours, completed in approximately 7 months, which is notably lower than the national average tuition of $16,042.
The academy also offers barbering and nail technician programs, providing a range of options for students seeking specialized training. In a recent year, the academy had many completers in the esthetician program.
12. Hacienda La Puente Adult Education
Hacienda La Puente Adult Education in La Puente is a public institution that offers a Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor program. In a recent year, the program graduated many students, all earning certificates, making it one of the larger instructor training programs in the region.
The institution serves adult learners seeking career training and professional development in the beauty industry. With a focus on accessible education and practical skill development, Hacienda La Puente prepares students for instructor licensure and teaching careers. The program is part of the school’s commitment to workforce development and community education.
13. Universal College of Beauty Inc
Universal College of Beauty Inc operates multiple locations in Los Angeles, including a campus at 3419 W. 43rd Place in the Crenshaw district. The college offers a Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor program that prepares cosmetologists, barbers, stylists, and nail technicians to teach their specializations in licensed and accredited schools.
The curriculum includes instruction in cosmetology arts and sciences, teaching principles, student learning styles, professional curricula development, instructional planning, and classroom management. The college also offers a Cosmetology/Cosmetologist program and participates in federal financial aid for eligible students.
14. Los Angeles College of Aesthetics
Los Angeles College of Aesthetics is a higher education institution located in Los Angeles County that offers specialized training in beauty and grooming. In a recent year, the college awarded many degrees, with numerous degrees in General Cosmetology and several in Barbering. The student body is predominantly female, with a majority of degrees awarded to women, and the most common race/ethnicity group being Hispanic or Latino recipients.
The college provides focused training in cosmetology and barbering, preparing students for state licensure and entry into the beauty profession. The institution serves the greater Los Angeles area with a commitment to practical skill development.
15. Professional Institute of Beauty
Located in El Monte, the Professional Institute of Beauty is a private for-profit institution that offers cosmetology and instructor training programs. In a recent year, the institute graduated several students in the Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor program.
The institute also offers a Cosmetology/Cosmetologist program for students seeking entry-level training in the beauty industry. With a small student body and focused curriculum, the Professional Institute of Beauty provides personalized instruction and practical training. The school serves the eastern Los Angeles area with accessible beauty education.
16. Lancaster Beauty School
Lancaster Beauty School is a private for-profit institution located in Lancaster, offering cosmetology and instructor training programs to students in the northern Los Angeles County area. In a recent year, the school graduated several students in the Cosmetology, Barber/Styling, and Nail Instructor program.
The school also offers a Cosmetology/Cosmetologist program for students seeking foundational training in the beauty industry. With its focused curriculum and small class sizes, Lancaster Beauty School provides personalized instruction and practical training. The school serves the Antelope Valley region with accessible beauty education.
17. Diamond Beauty College
Located in South El Monte, Diamond Beauty College is a private for-profit institution that offers comprehensive cosmetology programs. In a recent year, the college graduated many cosmetology students, all earning certificates.
The college offers three cosmetology degree programs, providing students with a range of training options. The institution serves the eastern Los Angeles area with accessible beauty education and practical skill development. With its focused curriculum and hands-on training approach, Diamond Beauty College prepares students for state licensure and entry into the beauty profession.
18. Zms the Academy
Located in Los Angeles, Zms the Academy is a private vocational school offering training programs in barbering, cosmetology, esthetics, nail technology, and permanent makeup. The academy serves as both a barber shop and cosmetology school, providing a practical, skills-focused training environment where students can refine their craft in real-world settings.
The school is accredited and participates in federal financial aid for eligible students. With its community-oriented approach and accessible location on Cesar E Chavez Avenue, Zms the Academy appeals to value-conscious students seeking practical training .
19. Elite Permanent Makeup and Cosmetology College
Located at 11961 Santa Monica Blvd in Los Angeles, Elite Permanent Makeup and Cosmetology College offers specialized training in permanent makeup and body contouring.
The college’s programs include Hyalouron Pen and Body Contouring, providing students with advanced skills in emerging beauty techniques. The institution is approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) and operates under state regulations. Elite serves students seeking specialized training in permanent makeup and related fields, offering a focused curriculum and practical instruction.
20. Redondo Beach Beauty College
Redondo Beach Beauty College is a higher education institution located in Los Angeles County that offers focused cosmetology training. In a recent year, the college awarded many degrees, with numerous degrees in General Cosmetology.
The student body is predominantly female, with a majority of degrees awarded to women, and the most common race/ethnicity group being Asian recipients. The institution provides accessible cosmetology education to students in the South Bay area with a focus on practical skill development. Redondo Beach Beauty College prepares students for state licensure and entry into the beauty profession.
Comparison Table
| School | Type | Location | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| LA Trade-Tech College | Public, 2-year | Downtown LA | $1,400–$2,500 tuition, evening cosmetology track |
| Citrus College | Public, 2-year | Glendora | Large program, many certificates and degrees |
| American Beauty College | Private, for-profit | West Covina | Cosmetology and barbering programs |
| Golden West College | Public, 2-year | Huntington Beach | Many graduates, 3 cosmetology programs |
| Career Academy of Beauty | Private, for-profit | Garden Grove | Many graduates, 5 cosmetology programs |
| Fullerton College | Public, 2-year | Fullerton | Strong cosmetology programs |
| Cerritos College | Public, 2-year | Norwalk | Many graduates, hands-on learning |
| Saddleback College | Public, 2-year | Mission Viejo | Large program, many certificates |
| Beyond 21st Century Academy | Private, for-profit | Santa Fe Springs | 80% board pass rate, 8-month program |
| Compton College | Public, 2-year | Compton | Comprehensive cosmetology programs |
| KC Beauty Academy | Private, for-profit | Los Angeles | $11,500 tuition, 7-month cosmetology program |
| Hacienda La Puente Adult Ed | Public Adult Ed | La Puente | Instructor program, many graduates |
| Universal College of Beauty | Private, for-profit | Los Angeles | Instructor training program |
| LA College of Aesthetics | Private, for-profit | Los Angeles | Cosmetology and barbering programs |
| Professional Institute of Beauty | Private, for-profit | El Monte | Instructor and cosmetology programs |
| Lancaster Beauty School | Private, for-profit | Lancaster | Cosmetology and instructor training |
| Diamond Beauty College | Private, for-profit | South El Monte | Many graduates, 3 programs |
| Zms the Academy | Private, for-profit | Los Angeles | Barber shop and school dual role |
| Elite Permanent Makeup | Private, for-profit | Los Angeles | Specialized permanent makeup |
| Redondo Beach Beauty College | Private, for-profit | Redondo Beach | Cosmetology focus, many graduates |
Tips and Other Useful Information
Program Length and Schedule: California requires 1,000 hours for cosmetology licensure under state regulations that took effect in a recent year. Programs vary significantly in completion time. Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy offers full-time completion in just over 8 months, while LA Trade-Tech’s program spans two years and four semesters. Students should consider their schedule flexibility when choosing a school.
Cost Considerations: Tuition varies widely across institutions. LA Trade-Tech offers the most affordable option at approximately $1,400 to $2,500 for California residents, plus kit and books. Private institutions like Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy cost $17,560 total, while KC Beauty Academy charges $11,500 for its cosmetology program. Most schools participate in federal financial aid programs, including Pell Grants and student loans.
Licensure Pass Rates: The California State Board cosmetology pass rate is an important metric to consider. In a recent year, Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy posted an 80% pass rate, compared to 62% at LA Trade-Tech . Prospective students should inquire about pass rates when researching schools.
Evening vs. Day Programs: For students who need evening classes, LA Trade-Tech offers one of the few evening cosmetology tracks in the area, though it extends the program to two years . Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy offers evening tracks for esthetician and nail tech programs but not for cosmetology.
Specialized Programs: Students interested in specific beauty disciplines should research schools offering their desired focus. KC Beauty Academy offers aesthetician and nail technician programs in addition to cosmetology. Elite Permanent Makeup and Cosmetology College provides specialized training in permanent makeup and body contouring.
Conclusion
Los Angeles offers a diverse array of cosmetology education options, from affordable public community college programs like LA Trade-Tech and Citrus College to specialized private academies like Beyond 21st Century Beauty Academy and KC Beauty Academy. Whether you are preparing for a career as a cosmetologist, esthetician, barber, nail technician, or instructor, the city provides a wealth of opportunities to learn from industry experts in well-equipped facilities. With options ranging from intensive full-time programs to flexible evening tracks and specialized training in emerging beauty techniques, there is a cosmetology school in Los Angeles for every skill level and career ambition.