Massage therapy or Cosmetology?

I am trying to decide on becoming a hair dresser (something I have dreamed of doing ) or a massage therapist?

I live in the Pacific NW, so I am trying to figure out which one would make the better income and why you would recommend each proffesion?

You indicated that you "dreamed of" being a hair stylist. If you follow your passion, the money will come. A cosmetologist, can do hair, nails and facials. A massage therapist can do massage and depending on state law, body treatments. Each position has its long term physical challenges. Massage takes a lot of physical energy, do you have the stamina for it and can you give a good massage. Hair, also creates physical challenges. It is not easy holding your arms up and drying long hair, Those muscles get a work out. Most massage therapist as they age will switch to aesthetics or facials so they can sit down and perform the service. Also look at the environment that you want to work in. In a resort environment, Massage is the #1 service. In a residential area, Hair is done by clients more on a regular basis, they consider a massage a splurge, although that is changing. If you can afford to be cross trained get licensed in both. If you can select only one. Then follow your heart it appears that is leading you to being a Cosmetologist.