How much does a manicure cost?
Ashburn, VA

How much does a manicure cost?

Ashburn, VA

How much does a manicure cost?

$20 – $40 basic manicure cost
$30 – $50+ gel manicure cost

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$20 – $40 basic manicure cost

$30 – $50+ gel manicure cost


Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:
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Tara Farmer
Written by
Tara Farmer
Edited by
Jennifer Carlson
Fact-checked by
Kristen Cramer

Average manicure cost

A manicure costs $20 to $40 before tip for basic service with regular nail polish. A gel manicure costs $30 to $50+ for polish cured with UV light for a longer-lasting finish. The cost of a manicure depends on the location, salon quality, type of manicure, and the specific services included.

Average manicure cost by type
Type Average price* Details
Basic / standard $20 – $40 Cuticle trim, filing, hand massage, color coat, topcoat
French $30 – $50 White tips with nude or pink sheer nails; may be added to standard, gel, or acrylic nails
Gel (full set, natural) $30 – $50+ Glossy, sturdier, gel-based finish that lasts up to 2+ weeks without chipping
Gel (fills) $20 – $40 Increases the length between full manicures by filling in the nail growth with additional gel-based polish
Acrylic (full set) $40 – $75+ An acrylic mixture added to your nails to add length and create shape
Acrylic (fills) $15 – $30 Fills in the nail regrowth to extend the life of the previous manicure
Dip powder $40 – $60+ Nail dipped into colored powder and sealed with a top coat
Russian manicure $70 – $80 (single color)
$90 – $150 (with nail art)
Detailed cuticle care using specialized drills, clean nail beds, and longer-lasting polish; lasts 4 to 6+ weeks
Polish change only $10 – $25 (regular)
$20 – $35 (gel)
$30 – $40 (dip powder)
No manicure service, only changing the polish color

*Average price before tip

Basic manicure

A basic manicure costs $20 to $40 for nail trimming, shaping, cuticle care, a brief hand massage, and regular nail polish application. This simple service takes about 30 minutes and the results last about a week with proper care. While the most economical choice, it offers less durability compared to other manicure types.

Gel manicure

Gel manicure prices average $30 to $50+, pricier than traditional manicures, but many people find the reduced maintenance is worth the higher price tag. The gel process involves applying specialized polish that's cured under UV light, resulting in a chip-resistant finish lasting up to 2+ weeks.

  • Salons often charge about $10+ more than a standard manicure when adding a gel topcoat.

  • Professionals recommend fully removing the gel coat every 8 weeks to keep your nails healthy.

French manicure

French manicures feature a natural pink base with white tips, creating a timeless, elegant look. This style costs more than a basic manicure—typically around $30 to $50—due to the additional time and skill required for precise application. The classic French tip design remains popular for both casual and formal occasions.

Dip powder manicure

Dip powder manicures range from $40 to $60+ and involve applying a bonding agent and dipping the nails into colored powder between coats of sealant. This technique offers durability similar to gel with a lighter feel. The higher price point reflects the specialized products and longer application process.

Acrylic manicure

Acrylic manicures cost $40 to $75+ on average and use an acrylic mixture to create artificial nail extensions. Acrylics are ideal for those seeking length and durability. While more costly due to the materials used and the skilled application required, an acrylic manicure usually lasts about 6 to 8 weeks.

Get free estimates from nail salons near you.

Factors that affect manicure prices

Several factors affect the cost of a manicure, including:

  • Salon location: Urban salons typically charge higher prices due to increased overhead costs, while rural areas often offer more competitive rates.

  • Salon reputation & expertise: High-end salons with experienced technicians and a strong reputation command premium prices for their superior service and skill level.

  • Time of service: Many salons adjust their pricing based on demand, so peak hours and weekend appointments may cost more than weekday or off-peak times.

  • Seasonal variations: Prices might increase during high-demand periods like wedding season or holidays, when nail services are in greater demand.

  • Local competition: Areas with many nail salons may have more competitive pricing, while locations with limited options might charge more.

  • Type of manicure: The type of manicure you get determines not only the initial cost but also the type of maintenance you'll need to do to keep it looking good and how often you'll need to get a fresh one.

Add-ons & upgrades

Add-on services vary depending on the nail salon, but most have a wide range of treatments, enhancements, finishes, and maintenance services. The table below lists several services commonly offered at salons and spas.

Manicure add-on cost by type
Service Average price Description
Nail art
Simple designs $3 – $5 each Basic dots, lines, or stamps
Complex designs $5 – $10 each Detailed artwork or multiple colors
Full set design $15 – $40 Cohesive design across all nails
Special finishes
Chrome finish $10 – $20 Metallic mirror-like finish
Holographic effect $15 – $25 Color-shifting rainbow effect
Matte top coat $5 – $10 Non-glossy finish
Nail enhancements
Extensions $5 – $20+ per nail Additional length using tips, price increases with length
Nail repair $5 – $10 per nail Fixing breaks or splits
Nail shaping $5 – $15 Specialized shapes like stiletto or coffin
Hand treatments
Paraffin wax $10 – $25 Deep moisturizing treatment
Callus removal $10 – $20 Smoothing rough skin
Luxury massage $10 – $20 Extended massage with premium lotions
Removal services
Gel polish removal $10 – $15 Proper soak-off of gel polish
Acrylic removal $15 – $25 Safe removal of acrylic extensions
Dip powder removal $10 – $20 Specialized removal process

Mani-pedi

Booking a manicure and pedicure together often provides better value and makes for a more luxurious and pampered experience. Most salons let you mix and match the type of manicure and pedicure, with different prices for various combinations. A gel manicure with a basic pedicure is a common choice.

Typical mani-pedi prices range from:

  • $40 to $75 for a basic mani-pedi

  • $75 to $150+ for a gel, acrylic, or luxury mani-pedi

A woman getting a manicure at a nail salon
A woman getting a manicure at a nail salon

Manicure FAQs

What is a Russian manicure?

A Russian manicure, also known as an e-file manicure, uses an electric file for precise cuticle removal and nail preparation. At $70 to $80 for a single color or up to $150 with nail art or medical treatments included, this technique focuses on detailed cuticle work and typically lasts much longer than other manicures.

What is a Shellac manicure?

Shellac is a patented brand of nail product that combines regular polish with gel. Priced similarly to gel manicures, shellac offers a glossy finish that lasts up to two weeks and is less damaging to remove compared to traditional gel polish.

What is a gel manicure?

A gel manicure is a service that uses a special type of polish cured under UV or LED light, creating a hard, glossy finish that resists chipping. Gel polish is known for its durability and immediate dry time. The process typically includes the following steps:

  • Standard manicure preparation (trimming, shaping, and cuticle care)

  • Application of a base coat, color, and top coat

  • Curing each layer under the lamp

How long does a manicure take?

A manicure takes 30 to 90+ minutes, depending on the type and if you add any extra treatments. Use the below averages to get an idea of how long the service you get may take:

  • Basic manicure: 30 to 45 minutes

  • Gel manicure: 45 to 60 minutes

  • Acrylic application: 60 to 90 minutes

  • Nail art: Extra 15 to 60 minutes

How long do manicures last?

With proper maintenance, most manicures last 1 to 4 weeks depending on the type. Monthly maintenance costs vary based on the type of manicure you get and if it requires time-consuming but beautiful nail art.

Manicure longevity by type
Manicure type Recommended maintenance frequency
Basic polish 1 – 2 weeks
Shellac manicure 1 – 2+ weeks
Gel manicure 2 – 3 weeks
Dip powder 3 – 4 weeks
Acrylics 6 to 8 weeks*

*With fills every 2 to 3 weeks

How much should you tip for a manicure?

Standard tipping etiquette suggests 15% to 20% of the service cost. For a $40 manicure, an appropriate tip would be $6 to $8. Consider tipping more for exceptional service or complex designs. Most technicians prefer cash tips over a credit card since the cash is typically in their hands the same day.

A nail salon technician applying polish to a woman's fingernails
A nail salon technician applying polish to a woman's fingernails

Finding the best deals on nail services

People can usually find a nail salon with services that fall within their budget. To keep costs down:

  • Look for new client specials.

  • Book during off-peak hours.

  • Ask about package deals or loyalty programs.

  • Follow local salons on social media for promotions.

  • Consider nail schools for discounted services.

Questions to ask your nail technician

Before getting a manicure, confirm the salon prioritizes hygiene and uses quality products for long-lasting results. Check out reviews on websites like Fash and Google to narrow your choices. Then, ask some key questions to help you choose the best salon for the services you want, which falls within your budget:

  • What products do you use? Do you use just one specific brand?

  • How do you sanitize your tools?

  • What's included in the service?

  • How can I make my manicure last longer?

  • What's the best removal process?

  • Do you offer discounts when purchasing multiple services at the same appointment?