How much does a manicure cost in Australia?

Got a big meeting, a wedding, or just craving some self-care? A manicure can easily make you look more put-together and be the perfect pick-me-up. With options like classic, gel, Shellac, acrylic, and SNS, you might wonder about the cost of manicure services and which one fits your budget. 

In Australia, basic salon manicures can cost less, but mobile nail services often include the added convenience of having a nail technician come to you. Let’s dive into what factors affect these prices and how to choose the right manicure type for your needs.

What are the average costs of a manicure service in Australia?

*Prices are for a full set of nails unless stated otherwise.

Manicure prices in Australia range from simple and affordable to luxurious and intricate. A basic one covers the nail cleaning, shaping, and cuticle trimming. Some salons include a standard polish finish with manicures, but others charge an additional fee, especially for rare shades and premium nail polishes.

You can also get paraffin wax treatments to soften and hydrate your hands. For a longer pampering session, deluxe or spa manicures include perks like exfoliation, deep massages, and nourishing masks.

For nail enhancements, you can get classic white tips with a French manicure or try the sought-after Russian manicure. Acrylic nails are also popular among salon-goers.

What factors affect the costs of a manicure service?

There’s more than one factor to consider when figuring out the average cost of a manicure across Australia. Curious about how these stack up? Here are things that can change the price of your next manicure.

Mobile vs salon appointments

One of the biggest cost differences is whether you visit a salon or book a mobile nail technician. Salon manicures can be more affordable because the technician already has access to a fixed workspace, shared tools, and product supplies.

Mobile manicure services usually cost more because they include convenience. The nail technician may need to travel to your home, bring their own equipment, set up safely, and allow extra time before and after the appointment.

Type of manicure service

Creating elegant French tips with precision (Source: iStock)

What’s included in a typical manicure, and how much it costs, depends on the style you choose. Here’s a closer look at what makes each type distinct:

Basic manicure

A basic manicure is the most affordable and straightforward option. Your nails are trimmed and shaped, your cuticles are cleaned, and a regular polish is applied. It’s worth noting, though, that while it may be simple and cheap, the polish is also prone to chipping within a week since it’s not as durable as gel or acrylic. 

French manicure

You might wonder how much do French tips cost if you’re after a classic touch, but they’re usually pricier because learning how to do white-tipped nails requires precision and skill. Aside from requiring steady hands, those signature white lines over a natural or pink base are also sometimes made with gel polish, which is more expensive.

Gel nails

Moving over to nail enhancements, gel polish is favoured for its strength and shine. It involves applying multiple layers of gel polish, including a base and top coat, and curing everything under a UV or LED light. 

This curing process hardens the polish, making it more resistant to chipping and allowing the manicure to last up to three weeks. Unlike regular polish, gel nails require special equipment for application and removal, which justifies their higher cost.

Acrylic nails

Getting acrylic nails, on the other hand, is another expensive manicure service. This technique combines a liquid monomer with a powder polymer to form a paste that’s applied over the natural nail to create a strong, hard layer. Once it hardens, the acrylic can be shaped to your desired length and style.

It’s preferred by those who want dramatic or custom looks, but the process is time-intensive and requires regular refills every 2-3 weeks as natural nails grow. Because of this and the materials required, acrylics often come with a higher price tag.

Shellac nails

Shellac manicures are a hybrid between regular nail polish and gel, delivering the best of both worlds. They offer a long-lasting, glossy finish that resists chipping for up to two weeks—perfect if you want durability without the bulk of acrylics.

While the cost for Shellac manicures is higher than standard polish, it’s worth the investment for those seeking a low-maintenance yet polished look.

Signature nail systems (SNS)

SNS nails have become a favourite in Australia for those seeking a strong yet lightweight alternative to acrylics. Using a dipping powder system, SNS creates a natural-looking finish that lasts 2-3 weeks without a UV lamp. 

It’s ideal for anyone looking to keep their nails healthy while enjoying a range of styles, from ombre to classic French tips. With its air-drying process and reputation for being gentler on natural nails, SNS caters to clients who value a safer and more eco-friendly option.

Nail polish types

Fresh pink polish being applied on a nail (Source: iStock)

Basic polish is the most budget-friendly since it uses traditional lacquer, a liquid-based formula that air-dries and can be used as a base, colour, and top coat. While it’s affordable, it doesn’t last as long as other options, such as gel and acrylic. It’s only perfect for those who like to switch up their nail looks frequently.

Gel polish is more durable—it can last up to 2–3 weeks or longer without chipping. It’s a slightly more complex application process, and longevity adds to the bill, though. But if you’re someone who doesn’t want to go to salons weekly for touch-ups, the extra costs can be worth it.

Other nail polish types include: sheer polish for a subtle, natural look, matte polish for a non-glossy, velvety finish, and chrome or metallic polishes for a reflective, high-shine finish. These options can be made with both basic lacquer polish and gel formulas.

Nail tech experience

Manicurist carefully applies nail polish on a client’s nails (Source: iStock)

A traditional nail technician won’t have the experience and knowledge to do a Russian manicure. And if you want to do nail art, you’ll need someone skilled enough to get the results you want. So, expect to pay greater costs for more complex services. 

Aside from knowing how to do flawless French tips or custom designs, expert nail technicians also know their way around specialised tools and how to keep them clean, safe, and in good condition for every use. Experienced nail technicians know the best and most efficient way to achieve your desired nail design, no matter how intricate the work is. 

Another positive thing is that if your manicures are in the hands of nail pros, you know that you’ll get a longer-lasting finish and a more satisfying manicure experience. They can offer expert advice on nail care and help you maintain their strength between appointments.

Studio reputation

Inside a nail salon (Source: iStock)

A nail salon’s reputation can also influence the average nail salon prices in the area. 

Well-known studios like The Parlour Room, Jocelyn Petroni, and Miss Betty Rose in cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, and New South Wales often charge more. Their higher rates come from the premium experience they offer. To most people, a luxurious ambience, top-tier nail products, and a sense of exclusivity justify a higher price tag.

On the flip side, smaller, less famous studios and private studios/solopreneurs may offer more affordable rates than popular, high-end studios. It doesn’t mean they don’t give a personalised touch; they simply cater to different markets. Most of these private studios are even owned by nail technicians themselves.

The choice between a renowned studio and a lesser-known spot will ultimately depend on how much you value the ‘extras’ in your overall salon visit.

Manicure service add-ons

Add-ons can easily increase your bill, even at your favourite salon. If you have Shellac polish or SNS, you’d likely spend to get it removed. Adding nail art, such as rhinestones or 3D elements, can also increase your bill.

Many clients opt to add pedicures to their sessions. Pairing hand and foot care is an option, too, with the average cost of a mani-pedi ranging from $55 to $120. But it’s not just manicure and pedicure costs that you have to think of. You can also have a full spa experience, a foot soak, or an exfoliation session. 

Some nail salons also offer lash and brow services and bundle beauty services like eyelash lifts and tints and eyebrow waxing. An eyelash lift and tint can cost $90 to $140, while eyelash extensions range from $90 to $180. Eyebrow waxing can set you back $25 to $45. These add-ons offer extra pampering, but they can make your total visit much pricier.

Location and tipping norms

If you thought you could get the same price for a manicure wherever you go, think again. Places with a higher cost of living, like Queensland and Western Australia, charge more for manicure services compared to smaller towns or rural areas. 

Fortunately, tipping is not as common or expected in the Land Down Under as it is in the US. If you’re particularly pleased with the results of your manicure appointment, a small 10% tip will do. You can also round up the total price to the nearest $5 to $10.

What are some ways to save on a manicure service?

Happy client gets a fresh coat of polish at the nail salon (Source: iStock)

How much does it cost to get your nails done without sacrificing quality? Here are some practical tips:

• Look for package deals and memberships: Many salons offer savings on services.

• Take advantage of seasonal discounts and promotions: Salons often run deals around holidays or lower rates during quiet hours like weekday mornings.

• Opt for a basic manicure with add-ons or use your own polish: Start with basic service and add only what you need, or bring your favourite polish for a lower overall regular manicure price.

• Choose simple nail art to keep costs down: Minimalist designs on just a few nails are more affordable than intricate work but still give you a stylish look.

• Extend your manicure’s lifespan and do your own polish removal: Use cuticle oil and top coats to keep it lasting longer. You can also save money by removing regular nail polish at home.

• Maintain your nails between appointments: trim, file, and keep them healthy to avoid frequent touch-ups.

Book an expert nail technician via Airtasker

Whether you’re prepping for a big event or simply needing a refresh, a well-done manicure and pedicure can make you feel polished and confident. But why spend time calling around for appointments or sifting through a nail services price list when you can book skilled nail technicians right through Airtasker? 

From a quick classic manicure to a full set of gel, Shellac, acrylic, or SNS nails, you’ll find pros who can bring salon-quality service to your home. It’s easy and convenient, and you can choose the expert that fits your style and budget. Post a task today and let Airtasker connect you with talented nail artists who’ll give your hands and feet the care they deserve.