How Much To Charge As A Nail Artist

Crafting the perfect set of nails is an art — and as an artist, your time and skills deserve to shine. But knowing how much to charge for your creations and still be every client’s go-to nail tech? Now that’s the real challenge! 

In this guide, we break down the key factors that impact the prices of artistic nails, helping you find that sweet spot between competitive and profitable.

How much does a manicure cost in Australia?

In Australia, artistic nails and spa prices can vary depending on the type of service and where you’re located. To help you get a feel for the market, here’s a quick breakdown of average prices:  

• Basic manicure (cuticle care, nail shaping and polish application) — $30 to $50
  
• Basic nail polish — $25 to $60
  
• French tips — Additional $10 to $25
  
• Nail extensions — $125 to $160
  
• Standard gel nails — $60 to $80
  
• Shellac nails — $30 to $110
  
• Standard acrylic nails — $40 to $70

Factors to consider when setting prices

There are lots of things that can influence artistic nail prices. Here are a few key ones to keep in mind:

• Skill level and experience

Are you a beginner working on building a client base? It’s okay to charge a little less to attract your first customers. But if you’re a nail queen with advanced skills and loyal clients, don’t be shy about charging premium rates. People pay for talent and experience!

• Location

Where you’re based can make a big difference. The prices of artistic nails in a small town might be lower than in a big city, where everything (from rent to avocado toast) costs more. Look around and find out what’s typical for your area.

• Specialised services

Offering trending services like gel nails and intricate nail art? These require extra skill and time, which means you can (and should) charge more. Clients love unique, wow-worthy nails, so don’t undersell yourself!

Calculating your costs

Like any business, running your nail empire comes with both fixed and variable costs. Factoring in these expenses when setting your rates ensures you’re not just breaking even — you’re making a well-deserved profit, too! 

• Nail supplies and tools

Think about everything you need to create those flawless sets — gel polishes, brushes, acrylic extensions, lamps and even the glitter that makes your clients swoon. Quality tools aren’t just an expense; they’re an investment in your craft!

• Rent or mobile expenses

Whether you’re running your own salon or travelling to clients, there’s always a cost. From rent and utilities to petrol for your car, make sure these are accounted for in your pricing.

• Marketing 

From Instagram ads to building a fab social media presence, promoting your services takes effort — and yes, a little money too. But those investments can help attract new clients and retain loyal ones.

• Upskilling

Enrolling in workshops and nail art courses not only enhances your skills but also lets you charge more for your services.

Pricing structures to consider

A solid pricing structure is the backbone of a successful nail business. Here are some options to consider:

• Flat rates

Keep it simple with fixed artistic nails and spa prices. They make it easy for clients to know what to expect — and they’re quick to calculate on your end, too!

• Tiered pricing

Offer tiered pricing to reflect different levels of complexity. A basic mani might be one price, but intricate nail art with all the details? That deserves a higher tier. You’re charging for your time and artistry!

• Add-on fees

Add-ons like rhinestones, chrome finishes or hand-painted designs take time and talent, so don’t be shy about charging for them. 

• Time-based pricing

Nail art that’s intricate and detailed can take hours, so why not base your prices on the time you spend? This ensures you’re fairly compensated for your hard work.

Grow your nail biz with NSI Australia

There’s no magic number when it comes to setting your prices — it’s all about knowing your worth and what goes into your work. At NSI Australia, we’re here to help you be the best nail technician in your area. From professional nail courses to must-have nail art supplies, find everything you need to build a thriving business.

Explore our collection now and create stunning manicures that keep your clients coming back for more!