How much does a pedicure cost depends on the type of service you choose. The cost of a pedicure at a salon varies depending on the finish and the location of the salon. The price generally starts at around $20 to $25 for a basic pedicure and can cost up to $120 for a deluxe spa pedicure package at a high-end salon, although they can cost more at a high-end salon with a full package of add-on pedicure services. The average cost is $30 to $65 based on research from hundreds of salons.
If you’re looking for the answer to “how much is a pedicure” keep reading. However, to get the answer to how much a pedicure costs, you need to know what type of pedicure you will get. Depending on where you live, each type of pedicure could have different names and come with different services.
For example, most salons offer pedicure packages such as an express pedicure, standard pedicure, enhanced pedicure, or luxury pedicure.
The least expensive pedicure, typically called an express pedicure, includes a quick soak, nail trim, and polish, whereas a more elaborate pedicure such as the spa pedicure includes additional services such as a hot soak in a foot bubble spa, foot massage, paraffin wax dip, and sugar scrub exfoliation.
A basic pedicure, often called an express pedicure, is usually between $20 and $25. A standard pedicure is typically between $25 and $55 and usually includes a couple of extra services over the express pedicure. The higher-end pedicure packages such as an enhanced pedicure or luxury pedicure generally fall in the price range of $55 to $120. A variety of factors can determine the final pedicure cost depending on location, nail color, type of polish, add-on pampering services, and specialty designs.
According to Statista, the average pedicure cost for basic services in the United States in 2019 was $35.46.
If you follow a budget, how much you pay for a pedicure is likely on your mind.
With the following information, you will be prepared to call your local nail salons, describe exactly what type of pedicure you want, and get their pedicure prices before you head out the door for some personal relaxation and pampering.
Also, keep in mind a gift certificate for a pedicure is great for a Mother’s Day gift, Valentine’s Day gift, birthday present, Teacher Appreciation, and numerous other special occasions.
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Related: Top Nail Salons Near Me with the Best Prices [Updated Guide]
Types of Pedicures and Cost for Each
The cost of a pedicure depends on your location and the type of service you request.
For each type of pedicure, customers usually sit in huge recliners with their feet soaking in a tiny whirlpool-style tub to clean and soften their skin and nail beds.
Some salons include automatic massage chairs that provide customers with a neck or back rub.
Most salons also have fancy names for each different type of pedicure they offer. For example, an Express Pedicure might be called a Mini-Pedi or On-the-Go Pedicure and a Luxury Pedicure might be called a Super Deluxe Pampering Pedicure or Deluxe Spa Pedicure.
Express Pedicure
The quickest and simplest pedicure is an express pedicure.
An express pedicure starts with soaking the feet in room temperature water with pedicure salts to soften the cuticles. If necessary, nail technicians will remove the polish, trim the cuticles, file the toenails, add a quick layer of moisturizer, and polish the nails with regular nail polish in the color you choose.
An express pedicure will take about 20 minutes.
The average price of an express pedicure is between $20 and $25.
Standard Pedicure
The most popular pedicure is the standard pedicure.
Sometimes called a classic pedicure, a standard pedicure starts with soaking the feet in a foot spa with warm water and pedicure salts.
The nail artist will remove old polish if necessary, trim and manicure the cuticles, file the toenails and get a nice nail shape, use exfoliating scrub and a foot rasp to treat callouses on the bottom of the feet, massage and moisturize the calves and feet, and polish the toenails with regular nail polish in the color you choose.
A standard pedicure will take about 30 minutes.
The average price of a standard pedicure is between $25 and $55.
Enhanced Pedicure
Enhanced pedicures are usually offered at upscale spas.
Enhanced pedicures are often called spa pedicures even though they don’t offer all the services of a true spa pedicure. It starts with soaking the feet in a foot spa with warm water and pedicure salts. You will likely get to choose the flavor of pedicure salts such as lavender, mint, eucalyptus, or green tea.
The package includes everything in the standard pedicure from the removal of old polish, dead skin and callus removal, to polishing the toenails in your choice of color. However, additional services are included throughout the pedicure process.
Additional services that may be part of the enhanced pedicure package could be:
- A hot stone massage on the calves and feet (this is often called a hot stone pedicure)
- Paraffin wax treatments
- Cuticle oil to soften and smooth the cuticles before and after the polish is applied to the toenails
- A hot towel fresh out of the towel steamer and wrapped around your calves and feet after a tranquilizing calf and foot massage
- Your choice of spa lotion in a variety of flavors and for various purposes, such as relaxing, invigorating, or moisturizing
An enhanced pedicure will take about 45 minutes.
The average price of an enhanced pedicure is between $55 and $90.
Luxury Pedicure
A luxury pedicure is a spa pedicure that offers multiple services in one package.
A luxury or spa pedicure is considered the top-of-the-line. It typically allows you to select a pre-selected package of pedicure services, or sometimes there is a list of services and you can choose a set amount. For example, out of a list of 12 options, you choose the 6 or 8 you would like in your pedicure package.
Additional services that may be part of the luxury pedicure package could be any of the options from the previous pedicures, specifically spa pedicures, and may also include options such as:
- 100% Organic products
- 30-minute deep therapy foot massage
- Hot towel wrap with your favorite scent to match the flavor of an essential oil massage
- Deep soak in hot milk and honey
- Clay mask application
- French manicure polish
- Gel nail polish
- No-chip polish
A luxury or spa pedicure will take about 65-75 minutes.
The average price of a luxury pedicure is between $85 and $120, and possibly more at a high-end, well-known salon.
Comparison Chart for Type of Pedicure and Cost
Pedicure Type | Average Cost | Time |
Express | $20 to $25 | 20 minutes |
Standard | $25 to $55 | 30 minutes |
Enhanced | $55 to $90 | 45 minutes |
Luxury | $85 to $120 | 65-75 minutes |
Pedicure Add-Ons that Cost Extra
In addition to the above services, your nail technician may also offer further enhancements to their pedicures such as:
- Nail art with intricate designs from decals or hand-drawn
- Unique shaping of the toenails
- Multiple colors on the same toenail or different toenails
- French pedicure
Add-ons can range in price from $5 to $25 or more, depending on the service.
What is a Gel Pedicure and How Much is a Pedicure with Gel?
Gel pedicures have the same characteristics as gel manicures, so they may be offered in a package that includes fingernails and toenails at lower prices than having the two services performed separately.
The difference between a gel manicure and a gel pedicure is minimal.
Typically, the pedicure will include the services listed in one of the above packages or the type of pedicure, with the difference being that gel polish is used instead of regular nail polish.
A gel pedicure cost is between $35 and $55.
What is a Shellac Pedicure and How Much Does it Cost?
A shellac pedicure is a great option if you’re looking for a long-lasting pedicure.
Shellac is a mixture of gel polish and regular polish that offers the best of both worlds, which is a rich color that won’t chip or fade.
It is applied like regular polish and then cured with UV lamp, making it much more durable than just regular polish, and it can last up to two weeks without chipping.
A shellac pedicure costs between $40 and $65.
Tipping the nail tech is not included in the salon price of a pedicure. The optimum gratuity is 15 to 20 percent of the total cost of the services performed.
Related: What is the Price of Nails at a Salon (with Average Price Chart for this year)
How Much Does a Pedicure Cost in Popular U.S. Cities
Getting a pedicure varies by location, for example, a pedicure in a major city such as New York costs more than a pedicure in a smaller city like Denver.
The following list provides a detailed breakdown of the average cost for a standard pedicure at a salon in popular cities in the United States:
Detailed Pedicure Cost Breakdown
Standard Pedicure | Gel Polish add-on | Shellac add-on | |
USA (all) | $41 | $46 | $52 |
San Diego | $42 | $48 | $52 |
New York City | $55 | $62 | $68 |
Denver | $40 | $45 | $50 |
Dallas | $44 | $52 | $58 |
Nashville | $39 | $50 | $55 |
Note: These prices do not include gratuity for your nail technician.
Upscale Nail Salon Pedicure Price Differences
A nail salon that is considered a spa will often have more pedicure packages and a wider range of prices for pedicures than a discounted nail salon because they are typically located in an upscale neighborhood.
They also have a higher overhead to run the business over discounted nail salons that typically are in less-competitive locations.
A spa offers more pampering techniques during the pedicure process. The service of the nail technician will also offer a more personalized touch to justify their higher prices.
How to Prepare Your Feet for a Pedicure
A pedicure is a great way to relax and pamper your feet. But if you’ve never had one before, the process can seem a bit overwhelming.
Here are a few tips to help you prepare for any type of pedicure starting with a basic pedicure:
First, make sure your feet are clean. That means giving them a good scrub with soap and water before you head to the salon. This will help the technician provide a better pedicure and also help prevent the spread of infections.
Second, trim your nails. This will help the technician work more easily and also help prevent ingrown toenails. If you’re not sure how to trim your nails, call and ask the salon staff for advice.
Third, moisturize your feet. This will help your feet to feel softer and smoother after the pedicure is done.
You may also want to consider taking your own pair of spa pedicure sandals. These special sandals have toe separators to keep your polish perfect until it is completely dry, and you can easily leave the salon wearing them.
How to Get a Discount off Your Pedicure Cost
Many nail salons offer special discounts for special occasions, such as holidays such as Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, or Christmas. Ask your salon about current special offers that may not be advertised without asking.
Ask about package deals
Most spas and nail salons offer discounts if you select a package deal, which can reduce overall pedicure costs. If there are several services or add-ons you are interested in, don’t hesitate to ask your nail tech if a discount is available.
Most salons also have the option to purchase a complete package that includes both a manicure and pedicure.
Ask your friends
Nothing can take the place of a quick chat with friends when you are looking for a great deal.
Be sure to ask them if there are any benefits for them as well if they refer you. Often both the referee and new client get a discount.
Check online coupons
Discount sites like Groupon offer discounts at salons and spas for various package deals.
If you know the name of the salon or spa you will be going to, check for discounted gift cards to save money.
Look for offers on social media
Check the Facebook or Instagram page of the salon to get updates on their latest deals.
Benefits of Getting a Pedicure
With the following benefits, it’s evident that even a basic pedicure does more than just make your feet look nice.
Pedicure treatments on a regular basis can help your feet and overall health in the following ways:
1. Calluses and dead skin are removed
Your feet go through a lot of wear and tear on a regular basis. Walking on them can cause calluses, skin problems, and even fungal infections. Friction from wearing improper shoes that are excessively tight and limit blood flow can also cause calluses.
Warm water soaks, pumice stone rubs, and applying moisturizer to the feet are just a few of the procedures utilized during pedicures to help remove calluses.
Pedicures also keep your feet healthy by exfoliating dead skin cells and removing rough patches.
2. Enhances blood circulation
A foot massage is frequently included in a deluxe pedicure, promoting blood circulation, decreasing tension, and relieving foot discomfort.
3. Assists in the prevention of fungal infections
According to one clinical study, almost 15% of the population suffers from fungal foot infections. Unfortunately, these illnesses go unnoticed a lot of the time.
Regular pedicures keep your feet and nails clean, which helps to prevent fungal diseases from starting or returning. A trained manicurist can spot a fungal infection in its early stages, which will allow for faster treatment.
4. Enhances the quality of sleep
Pedicures often include a foot massage and bath, which are performed using either special massage devices or the hands. Both of these techniques can aid in the treatment of insomnia, weariness, and anxiety.
Pedicurists that specialize in foot reflexology apply pressure to specific locations on the foot to bring relief. This can help patients sleep better and are especially beneficial to the elderly.
When a paraffin wax treatment is included with a full foot and leg massage, your feet will easily slide between the covers and put you right to sleep.
How Much is a DIY Pedicure
You can definitely do your own basic pedicure at home and save money. However, this is much different than going to a spa or salon for a full-service pedicure. Nothing feels quite the same as spa pedicures for total relaxation and taking time out of a busy schedule.
Also, keep in mind you will need to purchase all the supplies. If you want it to be cost-effective, you will need to use them multiple times.
Supplies for a basic DIY pedicure:
- Dishpan to soak your feet
- Nail polish including a base coat, color, and topcoat
- Cuticle stick and cuticle oil
- Nail clippers, nail file, and emery board
- Toe separators
- Cotton balls
- Nail polish remover if you have old polish on your toenails
Once you have all of your supplies, start by soaking your feet in warm water to soften up the skin and cuticles, trimming your nails, and filing them into the desired shape.
Next, push back your cuticles and apply cuticle oil.
Now you’re ready to start painting. Apply a base coat to help the polish adhere to your nails and then apply two coats of color.
Finally, finish with a top coat for extra shine and protection.
Allow your nails to dry completely between each step to get the best results.
If you want to pamper yourself, the following additions don’t cost a lot but add a special touch to your DIY pedicure:
- Epsom salt for soaking and relaxation
- Foot Rasp to remove dead skin
- Pumice Stone
- Gel Callus Remover
- Special Moisturizer specifically for feet
- You can even do a gel pedicure and paraffin wax treatment at home
- You can also add nail art or fun nail art designs with a DIY pedicure
A DIY pedicure will take about 60 minutes.
The average cost to do a DIY pedicure is between $50 and $125 the first time, and the price is close to free for the following pedicures since you don’t need to purchase new supplies for each pedicure.
How Much is a Pedicure FAQ
The following questions are the most asked during online research about how much does a pedicure cost.
How much is a pedicure for a man?
Men like clean and good-looking feet without a layer of dead skin showing just like women, so there are pedicures for men at salons. They typically cost the same. In fact, in 2010 there was a lawsuit filed against a salon in Maryland when a man was charged $2 more for his pedicure than the woman’s price.
A men’s salon is a great option for a man to get a pedicure because they are equipped with men’s supplies and have a variety of add-ons specifically for men.
How much do you tip on a $25 pedicure?
The standard amount to tip your nail artist is 15% to 20% of the total service.
If you are happy with the level of pampering you received with your pedicure package, and the polish looks clean around the cuticles, a 20% tip is the best gesture, which would be $5.
How long does a pedicure take?
The type of pedicure determines how long it will take from start to finish.
A basic pedicure will last between 20 and 30 minutes, while spa pedicures typically last between 45 and 75 minutes.
Gel pedicures and shellac pedicures will take between 45 and 60 minutes.
How often do you need a pedicure?
It depends on your personal preference and lifestyle how often you should get a pedicure.
For example, if you wear open-toe shoes often, you might want to get a pedicure more frequently to keep your nails looking nice. Or, if you have diabetes, you might need to get a pedicure more often to help prevent infections.
In general, most people get a pedicure every four to six weeks. But again, it all comes down to what works best for you and how much you can budget for the cost to get a pedicure.
If you would like to get a pedicure more frequently but don’t want to spend a lot of extra money, opt for a basic pedicure and skip the gel pedicure, french pedicure, or other high-end options so you can enjoy the benefits without breaking your budget.
With your feet looking and feeling great, this might be the perfect time to work a few extra hours and make some extra cash selling feet pics!