Trade Schools in Costa Mesa, CA

3 schools · 4 programs · Avg earnings $42,072/yr

Costa Mesa's economy thrives on a mix of retail, tourism, and a growing presence in healthcare and specialized manufacturing. Its proximity to medical centers and innovation hubs creates demand for skilled professionals in allied health. Programs like Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions directly address this need, preparing graduates for roles in the region's expanding medical sector.

The city also boasts a vibrant service industry, particularly in beauty and wellness, fueled by its upscale shopping and hospitality. Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Services programs align well with this established market, equipping individuals for careers in the numerous salons and spas throughout Costa Mesa and neighboring Orange County communities.

Schools
3
Programs
4
Avg Grad Earnings
$42,072/yr
Avg Score
61/100

Costa Mesa Trade Schools Map

3 trade schools in Costa Mesa, CA.

Orange Coast College Paul Mitchell the School-Costa Mesa Pacific College

All Trade Schools in Costa Mesa

3 trade schools ranked by number of programs offered.

School Programs Avg Earnings Avg Score
Orange Coast College 2 $46,306/yr 66
Paul Mitchell the School-Costa Mesa 1 $16,464/yr 42
Pacific College 1 $59,213/yr 70

Top Programs in Costa Mesa

Highest-earning trade programs by first-year graduate earnings in Costa Mesa.

Program School Earnings Score
Allied Health Professions Orange Coast College $68,484/yr 79
Practical Nursing Pacific College $59,213/yr 70
Liberal Arts & Humanities Orange Coast College $24,128/yr 54
Cosmetology Paul Mitchell the School-Costa Mesa $16,464/yr 42

Programs by Category

Healthcare (2) Personal Services (1) Other Programs (1)

Healthcare (2 programs)

Program School Score Earnings
Allied Health Professions Orange Coast College 79 $68,484/yr
Practical Nursing Pacific College 70 $59,213/yr

Personal Services (1 programs)

Program School Score Earnings
Cosmetology Paul Mitchell the School-Costa Mesa 42 $16,464/yr

Other Programs (1 programs)

Program School Score Earnings
Liberal Arts & Humanities Orange Coast College 54 $24,128/yr

Nearby Cities with Trade Schools

More Trade Schools in California

Frequently Asked Questions

How many trade schools are in Costa Mesa?
There are 3 accredited trade and vocational schools in Costa Mesa, CA, offering a total of 4 certificate and associate degree programs.
What are the best trade programs in Costa Mesa?
The highest-earning programs in Costa Mesa include Allied Health Professions, Practical Nursing, Liberal Arts & Humanities, with graduates earning $68,484 or more in their first year after graduation.
Are trade schools in Costa Mesa worth it?
Trade school programs in Costa Mesa average $42,072 in first-year graduate earnings, with many programs offering positive ROI within the first year. Most trade careers offer strong job security due to hands-on work requirements.

About This Data

This page analyzes 4 trade and vocational programs at 3 schools in Costa Mesa, CA using earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard and employment projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024–2034).

School locations shown on the map are based on official institutional addresses. Graduate earnings represent median first-year earnings for certificate and associate degree completers.

Data: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, Bureau of Labor Statistics 2024–2034. Last updated 2026.