The short answer
A small salon in a space that was already a salon can open for around $40,000 to $90,000. A full build-out in a raw space with 12 or more stations can pass $250,000.
The biggest swing factor is the space itself. A second-generation salon space with plumbing, ventilation and a restroom already in place can save tens of thousands of dollars compared to building from bare walls. Your city, the number of pedicure spas and how much working capital you keep in the bank make up most of the rest.
Cost breakdown, line by line
These are the planning ranges we use when building a startup budget with new owners. Your market will be different, so treat them as a starting point and get real quotes for your space.
| What it covers | Details | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Lease deposit and first month's rent | Security deposit plus first (sometimes last) month | $5,000 – $30,000 |
| Build-out and construction | Plumbing, electrical, walls, floors, lighting, restroom | $20,000 – $150,000+ |
| Ventilation | Source-capture tables or a general exhaust system | $1,000 – $10,000 |
| Pedicure spas | Per chair, pipeless jets, installed | $2,000 – $8,000 each |
| Manicure stations | Table, tech chair, client chair, lamp, per station | $500 – $2,000 each |
| Front desk, waiting area, dryers | Reception desk, seating, nail dryers, shelving | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Licenses, permits and inspections | Salon license, building permits, business license | $500 – $5,000 |
| Opening inventory and supplies | Polish, gel, acrylic, tools, disinfectant, linens | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Booking, POS and tech | Booking software, POS, tablet or computer, phone | $500 – $3,000 |
| Signage | Exterior sign and permit, interior branding | $2,000 – $15,000 |
| Insurance (first year) | General liability, professional liability, property | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Grand opening marketing | Ads, offers, Google profile, photos | $3,000 – $15,000 |
| Working capital | 3 to 6 months of rent, payroll and bills | $15,000 – $60,000 |
Ranges are planning estimates as of 2026 and vary widely by city, space condition and equipment choices. They are not quotes.
Three sample budgets
Small salon, second-generation space
4 to 6 stations in a space that was already a salon or spa. Mostly cosmetic updates, a few new pedicure spas and a modest grand opening campaign. About $40,000 to $90,000.
Mid-size salon, light build-out
8 to 12 stations, some new plumbing and electrical, new furniture and a stronger launch campaign. About $90,000 to $175,000.
Full build-out, raw space
12 or more stations in a space that needs plumbing, ventilation, restroom, walls and finishes built from scratch. About $175,000 to $250,000 or more.
Get your real number before you sign a lease.
On a free strategy call we'll look at your area, the spaces you're considering and your funding, and show you how we build your startup budget.
Book a free strategy callHidden costs owners forget
- Rent during the build-out. If construction takes three months and you're paying rent the whole time, that's three months of rent with no revenue.
- Utility deposits. Power, water and internet providers often ask new businesses for a deposit.
- Permit delays and change orders. Every change to the plan after construction starts costs money and time.
- Payroll before revenue. Techs you hire for opening week need to be paid even if the calendar starts slow.
- Accessibility upgrades. Older spaces may need restroom or entrance changes to meet accessibility rules.
How to lower your startup costs
- Look for second-generation space. A former salon or spa can save on plumbing, ventilation and restrooms.
- Negotiate free rent during build-out. Many landlords will give a few months of free or reduced rent while you build.
- Ask for a tenant improvement allowance. Some landlords will pay part of the build-out in exchange for a longer lease.
- Start with fewer pedicure spas. Rough in the plumbing for more and add chairs once demand is proven.
- Spend on what clients see and feel. Comfortable pedicure chairs, lighting and cleanliness matter more than expensive back-room finishes.
How owners fund a nail salon
Most owners combine more than one source: personal savings, an SBA-backed loan, equipment financing for pedicure spas, help from family or a business partner, and sometimes a tenant improvement allowance from the landlord. Lenders will usually want to see a business plan and a startup budget, so it pays to build both before you apply.
Want a head start? Read our nail salon business plan guide.
Common questions
Something else on your mind? Call us at (470) 971-5008.
How much does it cost to open a small nail salon?
A small nail salon with 4 to 6 stations in a space that was already a salon can often open for about $40,000 to $90,000, including working capital. Costs vary widely by city and the condition of the space.
What is the most expensive part of opening a nail salon?
Usually the build-out, especially plumbing for pedicure spas, ventilation and restrooms. That's why choosing the right space is the biggest money decision you'll make.
How much working capital should I keep?
Plan for at least three to six months of rent, payroll and bills in the bank when you open. New salons rarely run at full capacity in month one.
Are nail salons profitable?
They can be, but profit depends on location, pricing, labor costs and how quickly the calendar fills. Know your break-even number before you open.
Your salon starts with one call.
We take on 4 new salon owners each month, so every client gets hands-on help.
Book a free strategy call