How Much Does a Manicure Cost? Know The Factors Affecting Prices

A little self-care amidst your hectic days doesn’t hurt, and what can be better than manicures to pamper yourself? 

Manicures are quick, affordable nail treatments that give your nails a fresh and polished look, uplifting your mood, and making your hands look their best. While you can do your nail routine at home with a complete manicure kit, we recommend getting it done by professionals at a salon. It offers better sophistication to your nails with a long-lasting effect, making your manicure investment worth it!

When it comes to getting a professional manicure, the first question that pops into your mind is how much does a manicure costs. Well, we’ll answer that for you. 

A manicure involves steps like trimming cuticles, painting the nails, or adding extensions. Depending on how you treat your nails, the manicure cost will vary. So, before getting your nails manicured, read this comprehensive guide to understand how much the service will cost!

 

Different Types of Manicure

Knowing the types of manicures available is the first step to estimating the cost. Different types of manicures are offered, and the price will depend on the service type you are getting and the elements used in it. 

For instance, a manicure that involves buffing and trimming your nails to give them shape and applying a basic coat will cost much less than a glued extension. 

While many know about the 5 different types of manicures that women of all ages most demand, there are more to add to the list. 

• A standard manicure involves elementary trimming, shaping, buffing, and edging the cuticles to give nails a beautiful shape and appearance. 

• A design add-on is a standard manicure that includes nail paint or design elements like glitter to enhance its appeal. 

• Acrylic manicures (complete set) are nail extensions put on the tip to add length and then polished or painted to give a natural look. 

• Acrylic manicures (fills) are needed to keep the acrylics looking new and prevent pull-off or breakage. In this process, the grown-out parts are removed, nails are prepared, and removed portions are filled in to revive the manicured look.  

• Dip powder is a reliable, durable nail art technique that is a long-lasting, cost-effective alternative to acrylic nails or gel manicures.           

• Gel manicure (full set) involves applying gel polish treated under UV or LED light to give a gleaming, long-lasting effect. 

• Gel manicure (fills) is restoring or rebalances the gel polish extensions as the nails naturally outgrow.  

• French manicure is an additional treatment you can get with a manicure for a classic nail look. The nails are applied in a natural nude color/sheer pink with a white tip painted on the edge. 

• Paraffin wax treatment is a special beauty treatment that comes with any manicure service. It involves softening the hands with paraffin wax and moisturizing them with lotion. 

Understanding The Manicure Costs

It’s hard to know how much does a manicure costs as there are numerous service types and additional treatments available. Given the costs studied for various types, manicure services in the USA typically range from basic and affordable to a bit luxurious. 

You must spend between $20 and $40 for a standard manicure session. However, spending a bit extra to embellish the nails with extensions, apply rare arts, treat your hands with paraffin wax, or even get the elegant French manicure will add to your costs, going up to $65. Besides, some special manicures like gel and acrylics will need refills in 2-4 weeks for a lasting effect, making these manicures expensive.

The varying cost of manicures according to their types also reflects that process intricacies and materials used have a role to play. Nail technicians need special skills to perform high-end treatments like gel manicures and acrylics, making them costlier. 

 

Manicure Average Costs Depend on Service Types

The average cost of a manicure in the USA generally ranges between $15 and $50, depending on the type of service you choose, the products used, and the add-ons applied. Other factors to consider include the experience of the nail techs and the salon’s location.  

Here’s a simple breakdown showing the average cost required for every type of manicure to help you better understand the price. 

• Standard manicure cost between $20 and $40. 

• The design add-on costs $10, which is an additional cost over the costs of a standard manicure (i.e., $20-$40).

• Acrylic manicure (full set) or acrylic price ranges between $25 and $120. 

• Acrylic manicure (fills) costs between $15 and $20.  

• Dip powder for nails costs between $35 and $50.                

• Gel manicure (full set) costs between $25 and $65. 

• Gel manicure (fills) costs between $15 and $20.  

• French manicure costs between $5 and $15. 

• Paraffin wax treatment adds an extra $40 over any manicure service. 

• Nail extensions range between $20 and $35 for a simple set. 

Manicure Average Costs Depends on the States

The price for a manicure service at a beauty studio in New Jersey or New York City will always be higher than in any rural or smaller town across the state. 

Location is one of the most significant factors determining how much does a manicure costs. It varies significantly based on the city and state. If you are living in a large metropolitan area, the costs for every manicure service are higher. These areas generally have a crowded population, leading to higher rent prices and increased demand for salon services. 

Here are some examples:

• New York: The cost of a standard manicure starts at $30, and that of other special services ranges from $50 to $70.

• New Jersey: Basic manicures cost between $25 and $35, while gel manicures and other services are offered for $40 or more. 

• Chicago: The basic cost of a manicure is quite similar to that of New York, which is around $20 to $40. The gel and acrylic manicure will cost between $40 and $65. 

• Dallas: With a comparatively smaller population, salon services are less costly than in other cities. Expect to pay between $15 and $30 for a standard manicure service and $35 and $55 for other high-end nail treatments.  

• Non-urban/smaller states: Nail care services are highly affordable in rural states with fewer populations. A basic manicure can cost between $10 and $20, while other nail services cost between $35 and $40. 

Essential Factors Affecting Prices of Manicure Services in the USA

We understand the big question of how much does a manicure costs still lingers in your mind, which may be restricting your decision about getting spa manicures. Our nail artists and experts, having years of experience in the field, have helped us deduce some relevant factors influencing manicure prices in the USA. Here they are.

• Type of service 

It goes without saying that the price of a manicure session primarily depends on the type of service you are getting. A basic manicure, which is straightforward, quick and requires little time, costs much less than other professional skill-based manicure services like gel nails or acrylic nails, gel and extensions, nail art, and paraffin wax treatment.

Later services are considered deluxe manicures or nail treatments that women need to pamper themselves before parties and special occasions. For instance, different styles of French manicures are costlier than simple manicures. They are generally long-lasting, needing basic refills in between. These factors add to the costs of these exceptional nail care services! 

• Materials used in manicure service

Remember that the nail care products and different solutions used in manicure services also influence costs. Certain manicures require special equipment, such as an electric nail drill and dry technique, to prepare the nail bed. 

Nail enhancements, such as gel polish and techniques in gel and acrylic manicures, are often expensive. Salons need UV or LED lamps to correctly set the gel into the nails for a long-lasting effect. The nail polish types used in gel and acrylics also raise manicure bills as they are more durable due to their gel formulas. 

Additionally, salons that offer eco-friendly or vegan products for manicures charge a higher price for their services. 

• Skills and experience of nail artists

Getting a basic manicure from a traditional salon professional will never cost you a fortune. They do not have the technical skills and experience to do gel or dip powder manicures and won't charge you much. 

However, if you want to spruce up your nails with extensions, gel polish, acrylic, or custom nail art, be ready to pay more. For all these intricate manicure services, you’ll need someone with skills and experience who specializes in performing those cutting-edge techniques or creating minute designs to get the nail results you want! 

• Reputation of the salon

How much does a manicure costs also depends on where you get the service. The price will undoubtedly be higher if you get the manicure service from a reputed salon or a posh salon downtown than any salon in a serene suburban neighborhood. 

From our research on the average cost of manicured nails across states, we inferred that metropolitan cities or prime locations with high foot traffic and upscale customers will always charge higher prices for different types of manicure services. 

 

How to Reduce the Cost of Manicure Service?

Manicures beyond the basic ones are quite expensive. This brings us to a major concern: How can you reduce the cost of a manicure before and after? We have some effective tips to help you save money without hurting the quality of your nails in the long run. 

 

• Search for combined packages or deals at salons or even memberships. It will help you save money on regular manicures. 

• Wait for seasonal discounts/offers. Waiting a little more to get your nails done will not upset you. Grab the great deals around holidays or at quiet hours during weekdays. 

• Avoid getting a wholesome service package at first. Get the basic manicure service at a lower cost and add only what your long nails need for that shine or classy look. 

• Simple yet elegant nail art costs less than nail art with heavy designs or embellishments. Besides, it will go well with all your attire, including everyday looks. 

How Often Should I Get Manicure Service?

After spending considerably on a posh service like a gel manicure, women are often left wondering how long a gel manicure lasts. The answer is not hard to crack!

Nails done with a standard manicure service can generally last 2 to 3 weeks based on the materials or techniques applied. But, most importantly, it depends on how well you care for your nails.  

 

So, we recommend getting your nails redone every two to three weeks to allow proper nail growth, prevent polish wear, and ensure the nails remain gleaming and healthier.

However, some factors, like lifestyle and nail health, can raise the frequency of manicure services needed. Someone with dry cuticles or who engages in too much handwork will need more frequent manicures to keep their nails in excellent shape! 

How Can I Make My Nails Last Longer?

For someone bothered by the cost of a manicure, this is a key concern. Women with an average income or restricted personal care budget will seek to pamper their nails, but not with regular manicures. They would try to make their good nails last longer with proper care before again walking into the salon for another session. 

If you are someone with similar thoughts, make your nails last longer with these tips:

 

• Choose a long-lasting and expensive service like a gel manicure. Replenishing the nails, i.e., the cost of gel manicure fill is much less, and you will need it after 4 weeks, i.e., after a month.  

• Always go to a professional salon with expert manicurists who know how to prepare your nails and cuticles, apply regular nail polish, and use techniques for long-lasting results. After all, paying a one-time higher cost for a nail service is far better than paying multiple times at a low-cost salon in a month to keep your nails looking their best!
  

 

DIY Vs. Professional Manicures

If visiting a salon seems like a chore, you can get your manicure home. Yes, you heard that right! 

 

You can get your nails done beautifully using the professional manicures, nail products, and tools available at beauty stores or online. While you can’t expect the results to be as good as those in a professional salon, expect them to be quite pretty and dazzle your look before any occasion.    

For those asking what the significant difference between DIY and professional manicures is, here’s our experts’ take on the subject.

• DIY is cheaper, but professional manicures are safer. Sharp tools can hurt your nails or hand when trimming or edging.

• While the steps for a DIY manicure at home are quicker, professional manicures take time and will leave you with a soothing salon session to relax your mind. 

• DIY is convenient as you can get the benefits of a manicure anytime at your home, while you need to make a nail appointment at a reasonable time to get manicured at a salon. 

• DIY allows you to redo the nails immediately if you dislike them, while you cannot do that when you get a professional service. However, professionals will assure you that your nails will have stunning results you’ll love! 

At On The Side Spa, you can opt for the best nail care and manicure treatments at affordable cost and get gorgeous results never before! 

If you are ready to immerse in an exclusive manicure session by handpicked manicure experts, get our services:

• Classic Manicure: Our exceptional manicure service goes beyond the standard manicure. It includes treating your exhausted hands with a warm soak, nail trimming and shaping, and taking care of the cuticles.  A little comforting hand massage using our quality moisturizer waits at the end. 

• Deep Moisture Manicure: As the name suggests, this manicure treatment at our spa involves hydrating your hands to heal dryness and cracks. This is great for people with arthritis, too. The treatment begins with a smooth exfoliation. Afterward, the hands are dipped in paraffin wax and covered with comfortable mitts. Lastly, we will finish it with a peaceful, deep hydration butter creme hand massage.

• Gel Manicure:  This is our classic manicure service with long-lasting UV-cured nail polish. This UV-cure technique soaks your nails in 15 minutes, making your hands look gorgeous.

• OTS Signature Manicure: For an unusual pampering session, choose our signature manicure service at a reasonable price. It includes a warm and sweet soak, trimming or shaping the nails, cuticle care, and a refreshing massage with custom essential oil blends! 

Difference Between Manicure and Pedicure

Both manicures and pedicures are spa treatments involving nails, hands and feet. However, it’s worth knowing the differences between the two to estimate their costs, whether manicures are costlier than pedicures, whether manicure professionals offer pedicures, and so on.   

Let’s briefly describe the difference between a manicure and a pedicure. 

 

• Purpose: A manicure is the care of the fingernails and skin of the hand, while a pedicure treats the toenails and skin of the feet. 

• Process: Manicures come in various types and involve several steps. Pedicures, on the other hand, involve more steps and can include extra treatments like callus removal. Therefore, pedicures take more time. 

• Nail Extensions Nail extensions are quite a demanding service in manicures but are not common in pedicures. 

• Benefits: Manicures mainly enhance nail appearance while preventing nail damage. Pedicures are required primarily to maintain foot health by preventing issues like ingrown toenails and fungal infections and relaxing strained feet.

Get Ready for the Best & Affordable Manicure Service with On The Side Spa! 

Every woman who loves self-pampering or enjoys a tranquil spa session looks for an exemplary manicure service that won’t cost them a fortune. 

So, set your thoughts about how much does a manicure costs aside and contact a reliable salon with professionals who can flawlessly do your nails at reasonable prices or market rates. 

At On The Side Spa, we offer exceptional nail treatments with attention to detail and effective techniques. Reach out to On The Side Spa to indulge in a rejuvenating manicure session in a tranquil environment.

Our experienced nail specialists will discover the best treatments for your nails to give them a posh and healthy look. Book a session at an affordable cost today and experience a blend of exquisiteness and resilience in your nails!