Find the best hair salons and stylists, rated by locals.

The national average for a women's haircut is approximately $69, while men's haircuts average around $43 as of 2025-2026. Prices vary significantly by region — a standard cut in New York City or Los Angeles can start at $100-$150, while the same service in a Midwest town might cost $35-$50.

Single-process color typically ranges from $75-$150 nationwide, partial highlights cost $100-$200, and full balayage runs $150-$350 depending on the market. Major metro areas like NYC, LA, and Miami tend to be 30-50% higher than the national average.

Short styles need trims every 4-6 weeks to maintain their shape, medium-length hair every 6-8 weeks, and long hair can go 8-12 weeks between cuts. If you heat-style or color-treat your hair frequently, more frequent trims help prevent split ends from traveling up the shaft.

The industry standard tip is 20% of your total service bill, with 15% as a minimum and 25% for outstanding service. If an assistant shampoos your hair, a separate $3-$5 tip for them is also customary.

Look for a stylist who specializes in your hair type by reviewing their portfolio on Instagram or the salon's website. Read recent reviews, ask for a consultation before committing to a big change, and verify the stylist is licensed — there are over 1 million hair salons in the US.

The top 2026 color trends include espresso brunette, midnight brunette, cowgirl copper, and ice beige blonde — all emphasizing rich, glossy, low-maintenance tones. Bolder options like neon chrome finishes and multidimensional balayage are also gaining popularity.

Keratin smoothing treatments typically cost between $200 and $500 nationwide, with prices varying by hair length, texture, and salon location. Results generally last 3-5 months, dramatically reducing frizz and blow-dry time by up to 50%.

Professional hair extensions range from $200 for basic clip-ins to $1,000-$4,000 for full-head fusion or keratin-bond installations. Maintenance appointments every 6-8 weeks add $100-$400 depending on the method and hair quality.

Popular options include Olaplex bond-building treatments ($50-$100 as an add-on), deep conditioning masks ($30-$75), and protein reconstructor treatments ($40-$80). Regular trims combined with these treatments significantly improve color-treated or heat-damaged hair.

Salon color costs more ($75-$300+ versus $10-$15 for box dye) but offers custom-mixed formulas, precise application, and professional-grade products that minimize damage. Box dye uses one-size-fits-all developer that can over-process fine hair or under-process coarse hair.

Always bring 2-3 reference photos, be upfront about your daily styling commitment level, and disclose any recent chemical treatments or allergies. Sharing your budget and lifestyle helps your stylist recommend a cut and color plan you can realistically maintain.

Textured bobs, long layers with face-framing pieces, and modern shag cuts are leading the 2026 trend cycle across US salons. The overall movement favors effortless, lived-in styles with minimal heat styling, and curtain bangs continue as a top request nationwide.