Boston · Pricing · Updated July 2026
How much do nails cost in Boston?
Typical Boston ranges — one of the pricier markets we cover, with Newbury Street and Back Bay premium studios at the top and the student shops of Allston and neighborhood salons of Dorchester at the bottom.
The 2026 price table
Typical ranges across the city — we refine these against published salon menus as our reviews continue. Back Bay/Newbury and premium studios sit at the top; nail art, BIAB and Gel-X add $20–50+, while Allston and Dorchester neighborhood shops run noticeably cheaper.
| Service | Typical Boston price | What moves it |
|---|---|---|
| Classic manicure | $27–40 | Polish brand, massage length |
| Gel manicure | $45–65 | Brand of gel, French/chrome add-ons |
| Russian (dry) manicure + gel | $81–124 | Tech's training, appointment length |
| Gel-X extensions (full set) | $75–120 | Length, shape, art |
| Acrylic full set | $58–102 | Length, sculpted vs. tips; fills run less |
| Builder gel / BIAB overlay | $54–84 | Overlay vs. short extension |
| Classic pedicure | $28–46 | Massage time, callus work |
| Spa / deluxe pedicure | $45–75 | Scrubs, masks, extended massage |
| Nail art | $5–25 per nail | Hand-painting time, 3D details |
| Gel removal (with service) | $5–15 | Often waived with a new set |
Cost-per-week: the honest way to compare
A $45 gel manicure that lasts about 12 days runs roughly $3 a week. A longer-wear Russian manicure or builder-gel overlay worn 4 weeks often costs less per week — with cleaner grow-out the whole time. Our Russian manicure guide explains why they last.
Tipping in Boston
18–20% is standard; cash is preferred by most technicians. Check whether gratuity is added for larger groups before tipping twice.
Ready to pick a salon? The researched Boston salon directory lists who's worth knowing, by neighborhood.