Nail salon prices range from $20 to $150+ per visit, depending on the service. A simple manicure or pedicure with regular polish costs $20 to $40, while a gel manicure costs $30 to $50+ and lasts 2 weeks or more without chipping. A full set of acrylic nails costs $40 to $75+.

A basic pedicure costs $25 to $40 in most salons across the U.S. For a more luxurious experience with extras like longer massage time, hot stones, or aromatherapy exfoliation, go for a deluxe pedicure, which costs $40 to $80+, depending on the salon and the treatments included. 

Filling in gaps between false nails and new growth costs $20 to $40 for gel and about $15 to $30 for acrylics. Extra designs or French tips cost $5 to $20 more. Paraffin treatments cost $15 to $40 and are commonly used during manicures and pedicures to moisturize.

A nail appointment takes 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the service done. A full set of acrylics takes 1 to 2 hours to complete, especially when adding complex designs or jewels. A simple manicure or pedicure takes 30 to 60 minutes on average.

Most nail salons recommend tipping 15% to 20% of the final price, like restaurants and hair salons. If your nail technician did an exceptional job or completed a difficult design, consider tipping 20% or more.

The hours of nail salons vary, but many are open from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Remember to call, check your local salon's website, or look up their schedule online before driving there.

Most regular nail salon clients go 3 to 4 weeks between appointments, whether they're getting acrylic nails, gel polish, or regular manicures. If a nail breaks or comes off, you may need to make an appointment before then.

Start by searching our list of nail technicians, then:

• Get at least three free estimates to compare.
• Browse reviews on Fash and Google.
• Choose a company that is licensed, insured, and experienced.
• Look at pictures of their work and verify that they can do what you want.

After asking questions, hire the best nail technician in your area.

When looking for a local nail salon, ask the following questions:

• How long have you been in business?
• Are you licensed and insured?
• Do you have any same-day appointments available? If not, how far in advance should I book?
• How do you handle any accidents or injury that may happen?
• Do you have any deals or promotions?
• How do you keep up of the latest trends and products?
• How do you sanitize your instruments and footbaths?