How much does a manicure cost?
How much does a manicure cost?
$20 – $40 basic manicure cost
$30 – $50+ gel manicure cost
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.
| 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.
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.
Don't forget to factor in a tip when calculating the cost to get your nails done.
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.
| 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 pedicure alone costs $25 to $40 or more, depending on the type and services included.
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 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
To get the longest life out of your manicure, stay at the salon until your nails are 100% dry. This is especially the case for a basic manicure with standard polish.
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.
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?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.