What licenses do I need to open a nail salon?

You'll need multiple licenses at different levels. Every nail technician (including you) needs an individual cosmetology or nail technician license, which requires completing a state-approved training program (typically 300-600 hours) and passing a written and practical exam. On top of that, you need a salon establishment license from your state cosmetology board, a general business license from your city or county, and a health department permit. Some states also require a separate retail license if you sell nail care products. Budget 2-3 months for the paperwork — the establishment license often requires a pre-opening inspection.

Should I start with booth rental or open my own salon?

Booth rental is a smart first step if you're testing the market. You rent a station in an existing salon for $200-$600/month, bring your own supplies, and keep all your earnings minus rent. Your startup cost drops to $3,000-$8,000. The trade-off: you can't build a brand, you're limited by someone else's schedule and rules, and your income caps out quickly. Opening your own salon costs 10-20x more upfront but gives you full control over pricing, branding, and growth. Many successful salon owners started as booth renters, saved aggressively for 1-2 years, then opened their own spot with a built-in client list.

How many stations should I start with?

Start with 4-6 stations for a new salon. That's enough to serve 15-25 clients per day with staggered appointments, keeps your rent manageable (800-1,200 sq ft), and lets you grow into the space. Starting with 10+ stations means higher rent, more equipment, and more staff — but if you don't fill those chairs, you're bleeding money. The sweet spot is 70-80% station utilization before you expand. Many owners start with 4 manicure tables and 3 pedicure chairs, then add stations as demand grows.

Why is ventilation so expensive and is it really necessary?

Yes — ventilation is non-negotiable, both legally and practically. Acrylic nail products (methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate) and gel removers release fumes that cause headaches, respiratory issues, and long-term health problems for technicians. Most states require a dedicated ventilation system with a specific air-change rate (typically 6-25 air changes per hour in the work area). Options range from source-capture systems built into each manicure table ($500-$1,000 per table) to full HVAC modifications with dedicated exhaust ($5,000-$10,000). Skipping proper ventilation risks health code violations, employee complaints, and lawsuits.

How much do nail products and supplies really cost ongoing?

Ongoing supplies typically run 8-12% of your revenue. For a salon doing $15,000-$25,000/month, that's $1,200-$3,000 in supplies. The biggest recurring costs are gel polish ($12-$18/bottle, lasts ~30 applications), acrylic powder and liquid ($40-$80 per set), disposable items (gloves, files, buffer blocks, liner socks), and cleaning/sterilization supplies. Nail polish is surprisingly expensive to maintain — clients expect 100+ colors always available, and polishes thicken and expire after 12-18 months. Pro tip: join a wholesale buying group or negotiate volume pricing with distributors like OPI Pro or CND to cut supply costs by 15-25%.

How do I get my first clients when I open?

Nail salons are one of the most walk-in-friendly businesses, so location matters more than marketing at first. Beyond choosing a visible storefront, do a soft opening 1-2 weeks before your grand opening — offer friends, family, and neighbors discounted services in exchange for Google reviews. Set up Google My Business and Yelp profiles immediately with professional photos. Run a grand opening special (20-30% off first visit) and promote it on Instagram and local Facebook groups. Partner with nearby businesses — drop flyers at hair salons, spas, gyms, and bridal shops. After month one, shift to retention: loyalty punch cards, birthday discounts, and referral bonuses ($10 off for both referrer and new client) are proven to work in this industry.

Home / Nail Salon Startup Costs

How Much Does It Cost to Start a Nail Salon?

$50,000 – $250,000

Opening a nail salon ranges from $50,000 for a small booth-rental setup with a few manicure stations to $250,000+ for a full-service salon with luxury pedicure thrones, a ventilation system, and a team of licensed technicians. Your biggest cost drivers are pedicure chair plumbing, buildout for proper ventilation, and the sheer variety of products you need on day one.

Last updated Feb 2026 · Based on NAILS Magazine industry statistics and salary survey (2024-2025), Salon equipment supplier pricing (Pibbs, Whale Spa, Belava), State cosmetology board licensing requirements and fee schedules

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Where This Data Comes From

NAILS Magazine industry statistics and salary survey (2024-2025)
Salon equipment supplier pricing (Pibbs, Whale Spa, Belava)
State cosmetology board licensing requirements and fee schedules
Bureau of Labor Statistics — Manicurists and Pedicurists occupational data

All figures are estimates based on publicly available data and industry benchmarks. Actual costs vary by location, timing, and business decisions.

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