How Much to Tip at a Nail Salon?
Nail salon tipping is straightforward: 15-20% of the service price, with 20% typical for good work. That covers manicures, pedicures, fills, and nail art alike. Enter your service price above for the exact amount.
Quick answer: tip 15-20% of the service. On a $40 manicure that's $6-8; on an $80 mani-pedi, $12-16.
Standard nail salon tips
| Service price | 15% | 20% |
|---|---|---|
| $25 | $3.75 | $5 |
| $40 | $6 | $8 |
| $60 | $9 | $12 |
| $80 | $12 | $16 |
| $120 | $18 | $24 |
Nail salon tipping notes
- Cash is often preferred: many salons split card tips or delay them; cash goes straight to your tech.
- Tip on the full price: if you used a discount or package deal, tip on what the service normally costs.
- Complex nail art: intricate designs take real time and skill; the 20% end (or a little above) is the kind move.
- Multiple techs: if different people did your mani and pedi, split the tip between them.
Common questions
How much do you tip for a $40 manicure?
Between $6 and $8. Fifteen percent of $40 is $6 and twenty percent is $8; 20% is the typical choice for good work.
Is it rude to tip with a card at a nail salon?
Not rude, but cash is often appreciated more: some salons split or delay card tips, while cash goes directly to your tech the same day. If you only have a card, tip on the card rather than skipping it.
Do you tip on a discounted nail service?
Tip on the full, pre-discount price. The tech did the same work regardless of the promotion, so base the tip on the service's normal value.
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