Cosmetology schools in South Dakota

We found 4 schools offering cosmetology training in South Dakota, with campuses in Rapid City, Watertown, and Sioux Falls and more. Cosmetologists in South Dakota earn a median $49,800 a year, according to the BLS.

Schools
4
Public colleges
1
Median pay in SD
$49,800

4 cosmetology schools

School results

  1. Lake Area Technical College

    Watertown, SD · Public

    • Cosmetology
    • Welding
    • CNC machining
    • +17

  2. Paul Mitchell the School-Rapid City

    Rapid City, SD · Private

    • Cosmetology
    • Massage therapy
    • Esthetician
    • +1

  3. Stewart School

    Sioux Falls, SD · Private

    • Cosmetology
    • Massage therapy
    • Esthetician
    • +1

  4. Hear from the best fits

    One short form. Up to 3 schools send you costs, schedules and financial aid options.

  5. The Salon Professional Academy

    Rapid City, SD · Private

    • Cosmetology
    • Massage therapy
    • Esthetician
    • +1

What cosmetologists earn in South Dakota

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

Cosmetologist salary in South DakotaHow to become a cosmetologist

Median pay
$49,800
$23.94 an hour
Typical range
$32,090–$61,900
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in SD
690
Job growth, 2025–35
+7.7%
73,400 openings a year (U.S.)

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.

Hear from the best fits near South Dakota

One short form. Up to 3 schools send you costs, schedules and financial aid options. Free, with no obligation.

  • Compare real costs and start dates
  • Ask about financial aid and apprenticeships
  • Your info goes only to the schools you're matched with

Step 1 of 3: Your trade

Compare cosmetology schools

Free · Takes 60 seconds · No obligation

Frequently asked questions

How many cosmetology schools are in South Dakota?

We list 4 schools in South Dakota with cosmetology programs: 1 public college and 3 private career schools. Campuses are in Rapid City, Watertown, and Sioux Falls.

Are there community college cosmetology programs in South Dakota?

Yes. 1 public college in South Dakota offer cosmetology. Public programs often cost less and are usually eligible for federal financial aid. Confirm costs and aid with each school.

How much does cosmetology school cost in South Dakota?

Among the 4 schools here that report it to the U.S. Department of Education, the average yearly net price (after grants and scholarships) ranges from $14,221 to $19,694. That figure covers the whole school, not just this program, so ask each school for the program's total cost.

How much do cosmetologists make in South Dakota?

The median pay for cosmetologists in South Dakota is $49,800 a year, and most earn between $32,090 and $61,900, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How do I choose a cosmetology school in South Dakota?

Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.

Other programs in South Dakota

All trade schools in South Dakota

Cosmetology schools in other states