We’ve all been there. You wake up one morning, look in the mirror, and realize you desperately need a haircut. You might reach for the phone to schedule an appointment at your usual barbershop, but do you ever wonder if you could get a better deal somewhere else?

Like all haircut costs, men’s haircut prices are dependent on a number of factors, including location, service, salon type, and more. Since there’s so much variation, it’s important to understand all the potential price tags before you book your next appointment.

In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about men’s haircut prices, such as average prices, differentiating factors, and tips to save. That way, you can get the wallet-conscious haircut you deserve.

Average men’s haircut price

The average men’s haircut price is about $29 across the United States, according to data gathered from our stylists. 

However, depending on your specific region, service, and a variety of other factors, your next appointment may cost anywhere between $15 to $42. Keep reading to find out exactly how much you should expect to pay for your next haircut.

Men’s haircut prices by state

One of the biggest factors affecting men’s haircut prices is your state. When scheduling your next haircut, it can be helpful to understand how much your state’s price tag differs from other places in the United States.

To find out how much a men’s haircut will cost in your area, check out the chart below for the average price in each state.

State	Average cost per appointment
AK	$32
AL	$29
AR	$26
AZ	$31
CA	$40
CO	$35
CT	$29
DE	$42
FL	$29
GA	$33
HI	$29
IA	$20
ID	$25
IL	$40
IN	$25
KS	$24
KY	$28
LA	$31
MA	$37
MD	$36
ME	$37
MI	$32
MN	$34
MO	$34
MS	$24
MT	$20
NC	$27
ND	$22
NE	$28
NH	$25
NJ	$30
NM	$26
NV	$30
NY	$28
OH	$29
OK	$30
OR	$30
PA	$28
RI	$22
SC	$29
SD	$29
TN	$30
TX	$31
UT	$22
VA	$33
VT	$29
WA	$40
WI	$26
WV	$15
WY	$26

Other factors affecting men’s haircut prices

In addition to state differences, there are a variety of other factors that can influence the exact cost of a men’s haircut. From your salon type to your neighborhood, take a look at the other elements that play a role in the price tag below.

Type of salon

The type of salon or barbershop you choose can impact the price you pay. It may sound obvious, but it’s important to keep in mind that higher-end salons will cost much more than budget chain salons.

For example, you might pay $15 to $25 at your local chain salon, but anywhere from $50 to $800 at a more upscale barbershop. You’ll want to make sure to research the type of salon or barbershop you pick so you know the kind of price point to expect.

Stylist expertise

Your stylist’s level of expertise is another way salons calculate their pricing. For example, if a barber has significant training, certain certifications, or many years in the industry, they’re likely to charge more than a less experienced stylist.

On the other hand, having a stylist-in-training cut your hair can be a great way to save money if you need a fresh trim. Regardless of your barber’s experience, it’s critical to communicate what you want so you can avoid dealing with a bad haircut. 

Services needed

Some services and types of men’s haircuts are more complex and take more time than others, so salons may charge more for them. For example, getting a simple trim will likely cost less than a fade or coloring your hair.

Here are some specific prices you might expect to pay for different services:

• Beard trim: $5 to $15
• Fade: $30 to $40
• Color treatment: $35 to $80
• Dreadlocks: $48 to $1,400

Hair length

Although men’s haircuts are generally considered less complicated and therefore less expensive than women’s haircuts, charging by hair length is an example of gender-neutral pricing. Stylists who handle pricing this way simply examine the time and technique needed for your hair length when determining the cost of your appointment.

For example, long men’s hairstyles may come at a higher price tag than short men’s hairstyles. Meanwhile, a woman who wants a buzz cut won’t be charged more than a man with lengthy locks just because of her gender.

City or neighborhood

Even though state averages give you a general idea of your expected haircut cost, the exact city or neighborhood of the salon further affects the price of your haircut. That’s because the cost of living in some cities or regions is higher than others, so men’s haircut prices match those specific financial standards. 

For example, the average men’s haircut price in a city with a high cost of living like New York, New York is $118, while the average price in a more affordable city like Milwaukee, Wisconsin is $26.

How much to tip for a men’s haircut

In general, you should tip a barber 15 to 20 percent per appointment. Since tips make up a significant portion of a stylist’s income, it’s especially important to tip every time you get a haircut. 

The exact tip you give will depend on a range of factors. If any of the following apply to you, you might want to tip more:

• You love your haircut.
• The style you wanted was complex.
• The salon is in an area with a higher cost of living.

On the other hand, if you experienced any of the following, you might tip a little less:

• You’re unhappy with your haircut.
• You felt like the barber rushed your appointment.
• The barbershop was unclean. 

Be sure to do your research on the salon and stylist beforehand to help ensure that you’re content with your experience.

Tips to get the best deal on your men’s haircut 

To make sure you’re getting the best deal on your men’s haircut, there are things you’ll need to keep in mind both before you book and during the appointment itself. Here are some of the best tips to save on your next haircut: 

Know the prices before you book

One of the best things you can do before booking a haircut is to know the market. Research how much salons in your area are charging for the services you want, and brush up on any barber terms that will help you better understand the offerings. 

From there, determine which salon offers the best deal for the best quality. Understanding how much haircuts cost can help you feel confident that you’re getting the right price.

Look out for discriminatory fees

Some salons charge extra if their stylists are inexperienced with textured hair. This unfair price bump is often called the “natural hair tax,” and you’ll want to keep an eye out for it when looking into barbershops. 

To avoid this discriminatory fee, opt for salons that specialize in your hair type without any extra costs. That way, you can get a fairly priced haircut from someone who understands your hair type.

Request a consultation

During your appointment, you should ask your barber for a consultation before they start cutting. This means telling them what you want out of your next hairstyle and listening to any of their recommendations. For example, you might request a tapered look or a haircut for a receding hairline.

Not only is it good barbershop etiquette to show that you trust your stylist’s opinion, but it’s also helpful to communicate with your barber right off the bat. When your stylist understands your preferences, you’re more likely to be satisfied with your appointment and get the best deal possible. 

Show the stylist photos

To make it even more likely that you’ll love your haircut, you might want to bring your barber inspiration photos of the kind of hairstyle you want. You can either print out images, point to magazine clippings, or use photos from your camera roll.

Whichever method you choose, show your barber the photos at the start of your appointment so they can visualize what you want and offer any suggestions. Making sure you and your barber are on the same page is a great way to ensure your cut is worth the price tag. 

Ask for hair care advice

During your appointment, take advantage of the barber’s expertise and request their hair care advice. For example, ask how often to get a haircut, which products to use, and tips for styling your new look. 

Your barber has a lot of knowledge, and absorbing the most information from them as possible helps you get a great deal and learn how to better care for your hair.

Frequently asked questions

Still have lingering questions about men’s haircut prices? Read the following answers to clarify the most common concerns below.

What is the average cost of a men’s haircut?

The average cost of a men’s haircut is $29 in the United States. However, the specific price you’ll pay will vary based on your location, services needed, salon type, and a variety of other factors.

What’s a fair price for a men’s haircut?

A fair price for a men’s haircut depends on your budget. Although higher-end salons are on the pricier side, you can find a reasonable men’s haircut for anywhere between $15 and $42 in the United States.

How much do you tip for a $20 haircut?

Since you should tip a barber 15 to 20 percent per appointment, you’ll want to tip between $3 and $4 for a $20 haircut. However, if you really loved your experience, you may want to provide a more generous tip for your haircut.

Why are haircuts so expensive?

Haircuts can be on the more expensive side if any of the following apply:

• The salon is in a city or neighborhood with a high cost of living.
• The stylist has significant training and years of experience.
• The services you want are complex or time-consuming, like a long haircut or color treatment.

Men’s haircut prices takeaway

Before you settle with your usual barbershop, it’s a good idea to understand the many factors that can affect men’s haircut prices. Once you know more about costs and ways to save, you’ll be able to book a budget-friendly haircut and walk out with a look you’ll love. 
If you want to simplify your search for your next barber, check out our directory of stylists and barbers to find the right one for your needs.