Jonathan BensonIf you want a career in beauty and cosmetology, choosing the right school is crucial. Akron, Ohio, and nearby areas offer a mix of accredited and reputable schools that prepare you for the Ohio Board of Cosmetology licensure exam.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top 10 cosmetology schools in Akron, including tuition fees, program highlights, and what makes each school stand out.
Top 10 Cosmetology Schools In Akron And Fees
1. Gerbers Akron Beauty School
Location: Akron, OH
Program: Cosmetology (also Esthetics & Nail Tech)
Tuition & Fees: ~$13,100 tuition + ~$900 supplies
Gerbers Akron Beauty School is a well-known local institution that provides hands-on training in hair, skin, and nail care. Students benefit from a curriculum aligned with Ohio licensure requirements and a strong reputation in the local beauty industry.
Program Length: ~13 months
Why Choose Gerbers:
- Accredited and Ohio Board-approved
- Comprehensive beauty curriculum
- Ideal for local students seeking a career in salons or freelance beauty
2. Raphael’s School of Beauty Culture – Alliance & Brunswick Campuses
Location: ~30 miles from Akron
Programs: Cosmetology, Esthetics, Nail Technology, Barbering, Massage Therapy
Tuition & Fees: ~$13,000–$18,000+ (varies by campus)
Raphael’s offers flexible programs and multiple campuses near Akron, making it a great option for students seeking diverse career paths in beauty and wellness. Financial aid and scholarships are available for qualified applicants.
Why Choose Raphael’s:
- Multi-campus convenience in Northeast Ohio
- Wide range of beauty programs
- Strong alumni network and career support
3. Paul Mitchell The School – Cleveland
Location: Cleveland, OH (~30 min drive from Akron)
Programs: Cosmetology, Esthetics, Makeup Artistry
Tuition & Fees: ~$18,000–$24,000+
Paul Mitchell is a nationally recognized beauty school network with an excellent reputation. Students gain advanced skills and opportunities that extend beyond Ohio.
Why Choose Paul Mitchell:
- Nationally recognized curriculum
- High-quality hands-on training
- Access to a nationwide professional network
4. National Beauty College – Canton
Location: Canton, OH (~30 minutes from Akron)
Program: Cosmetology
Tuition & Fees: Contact school for current rates
National Beauty College offers practical training for students aiming to obtain Ohio cosmetology licensure. Its small class sizes allow for personalized attention and direct hands-on experience.
Why Choose National Beauty College:
- Focused cosmetology training
- Small, interactive classes
- Local region accessibility
5. Cuyahoga Valley Career Center – Brecksville
Location: Brecksville, OH
Program: Cosmetology
Tuition & Fees: Lower than private institutions (contact school)
This public vocational center provides affordable cosmetology programs and is ideal for students seeking cost-effective training. The curriculum prepares students for Ohio licensure and entry-level careers in beauty.
Why Choose Cuyahoga Valley Career Center:
- Affordable vocational education
- Hands-on salon training
- Opportunity for adult and high school students
6. Wayne County Schools Career Center – Smithville
Location: Smithville, OH
Program: Cosmetology
Tuition & Fees: Contact school for details
Wayne County Schools Career Center offers career-focused cosmetology training and is well-suited for students in vocational tracks seeking practical beauty skills.
Why Choose Wayne County Schools:
- Career-oriented programs
- Affordable tuition
- Focused, hands-on learning
7. Polaris Career Center – Middleburg Heights
Location: Middleburg Heights, OH
Program: Cosmetology
Tuition & Fees: Contact school for details
Polaris Career Center emphasizes practical salon experience and partnerships with local businesses for internship opportunities. Students gain the skills needed to excel in the beauty industry.
Why Choose Polaris Career Center:
- Hands-on training with real-world experience
- Public career center affordability
- Strong industry partnerships
8. Handz R Us Beauty Academy – Maple Heights
Location: Maple Heights, OH
Program: Cosmetology & Beauty Programs
Tuition & Fees: Contact school for details
Handz R Us Beauty Academy offers specialized beauty programs tailored to Ohio’s cosmetology board requirements. Students gain skills in hair, nails, and skincare.
Why Choose Handz R Us:
- Tailored curriculum for Ohio licensure
- Practical training emphasis
- Personalized student support
9. Inner State Beauty School – Lyndhurst
Location: Lyndhurst, OH
Program: Cosmetology
Tuition & Fees: Contact school for current fees
Inner State Beauty School focuses on hair and beauty training, preparing students for both licensure and entry-level careers.
Why Choose Inner State:
- Local, focused training
- Hands-on classroom experience
- Prepares students for licensure exams
10. Brown Aveda Institute – Rocky River & Mentor
Location: ~50 miles from Akron
Program: Cosmetology
Tuition & Fees: Higher tuition (contact school for exact rates)
Brown Aveda Institute provides holistic cosmetology training with strong brand recognition. Students learn advanced techniques and eco-conscious beauty practices.
Why Choose Brown Aveda Institute:
- Globally recognized training
- Aveda brand certification
- Advanced holistic beauty curriculum
Comparison Table: Akron Cosmetology Schools & Tuition
| School Name | Location | Cosmetology Program | Approx. Tuition/Fees* | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gerbers Akron Beauty School | Akron, OH | Yes | ~$13,100 tuition + supplies | Local, accredited |
| Raphael’s School of Beauty Culture – Alliance/Brunswick | ~30 mi | Yes | ~$13,000–$18,000+ | Multiple programs |
| Paul Mitchell The School – Cleveland | ~30 min | Yes | ~$18,000+ | National brand |
| National Beauty College | Canton | Yes | Contact school | Local region |
| Cuyahoga Valley Career Center | Brecksville | Yes | Usually lower | Vocational |
| Wayne County Schools Career Center | Smithville | Yes | Vocational | Career center |
| Polaris Career Center | Middleburg Heights | Yes | Vocational | Public center |
| Handz R Us Beauty Academy | Maple Heights | Yes | Contact school | Specialized training |
| Inner State Beauty School | Lyndhurst | Yes | Contact school | Local beauty school |
| Brown Aveda Institute – Rocky River/Mentor | ~50 mi | Yes | Higher tuition | Aveda certified |
*Fees are approximate and may vary. Always contact schools for current rates.
Conclusion
Finding the right cosmetology school in Akron or nearby cities is the first step toward a rewarding career in the beauty industry. From Gerbers Akron Beauty School, perfect for local students, to Paul Mitchell The School and Brown Aveda Institute, recognized nationally and globally, there are options to fit every budget and career goal.
When choosing a school, prioritize accreditation, total cost, program length, and licensure preparation to make an informed decision.