How much does a Nail Technician make?
Nail technicians work in salons, spas, and other beauty establishments. They focus on manicures and pedicures, as well as nail art and extensions. According to recent data, the average yearly salary for a nail technician is around $48,589. This salary can change based on experience and where the job is located.
Many nail technicians start at the lower end of the salary range. New technicians can make about $25,250 per year. With more experience, the pay can grow. The top earners make more than $104,000 annually. Nail technicians in big cities often make more than those in smaller towns. Factors like demand for services and cost of living also affect how much someone can earn.
What are the highest paying cities for a Nail Technician?

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Columbia, SC
Average Salary: $114,100
In Columbia, SC, professionals find great opportunities in beauty salons and spas. Companies like The Nail Bar and several independent salons offer dynamic environments. Columbia's vibrant culture provides a lively setting for beauty enthusiasts.
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New Orleans, LA
Average Salary: $75,689
New Orleans, LA, brings a unique blend of beauty and culture. Nail artists can work in high-end salons and boutique spas. Renowned salons like Lush Salon offer exciting opportunities. The city's rich history adds charm to daily work.
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Mobile, AL
Average Salary: $67,857
Mobile, AL, offers a thriving beauty industry. Job seekers can find opportunities in various salons and spas. Popular places like The Nail Gallery provide a welcoming atmosphere. The city’s southern hospitality makes it a pleasant place to work.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $61,588
Milwaukee, WI, is known for its beauty and wellness centers. Nail technicians can explore roles in salons and spas. Companies like Nailed It! offer a professional environment. The city's friendly community makes it a great place to build a career.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $60,964
Austin, TX, boasts a lively beauty scene. Nail professionals have numerous options in chic salons and modern spas. Well-known salons like The Nail Spot offer vibrant settings. Austin's energy reflects in its thriving beauty industry.
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Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $58,435
Nashville, TN, offers a dynamic environment for beauty experts. Nail technicians can find work in various salons and spas. Notable companies like Bliss Nail & Spa provide excellent opportunities. The city’s music scene adds a unique flair to daily work.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $57,829
Charlotte, NC, is a thriving city for beauty professionals. Opportunities abound in modern salons and spas. Companies like The Nail Boutique offer engaging environments. The city’s growing population provides steady demand for beauty services.
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El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $57,507
El Paso, TX, has a flourishing beauty industry. Nail technicians can work in a variety of salons and spas. Popular spots like Perfect Nails offer excellent opportunities. The city’s diverse culture enhances the beauty services experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $57,123
Seattle, WA, offers a vibrant scene for nail professionals. Opportunities exist in trendy salons and wellness centers. Renowned salons like The Nail Spa provide dynamic environments. Seattle’s progressive vibe makes it an exciting place to work.
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Wilmington, NC
Average Salary: $57,065
Wilmington, NC, has a growing beauty industry. Professionals can find roles in various salons and spas. Notable places like The Nail Salon offer professional settings. The city’s coastal charm adds a unique touch to the work environment.
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What are the best companies a Nail Technician can work for?

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One Spa World
Average Salary: $76,091
One Spa World offers a variety of beauty services in luxurious settings. They have locations in major cities, providing Nail Technicians with diverse opportunities to grow their skills and advance their careers.
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Resident Salon Services
Average Salary: $62,941
Resident Salon Services operates in upscale locations, offering top-notch beauty services. They provide a supportive environment for Nail Technicians to thrive and advance their skills.
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PS Salon & Spa
Average Salary: $48,677
PS Salon & Spa is known for its high-quality beauty services. They have multiple locations where Nail Technicians can work in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
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Salon Vivace
Average Salary: $44,923
Salon Vivace offers a welcoming atmosphere for Nail Technicians. With several locations, they provide numerous opportunities for professional growth and skill development.
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Belle
Average Salary: $43,946
Belle provides a range of beauty services across various locations. They offer a supportive workplace where Nail Technicians can build their careers and enhance their skills.
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Rejuvenate Salon and Spas
Average Salary: $43,839
Rejuvenate Salon and Spas is committed to providing exceptional beauty services. They offer Nail Technicians a chance to work in a professional setting with opportunities for advancement.
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Paul Mitchell Schools
Average Salary: $43,433
Paul Mitchell Schools focus on education and professional growth. They offer Nail Technicians a chance to work in a learning environment with potential for advancement.
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Varnish Lane
Average Salary: $33,529
Varnish Lane provides a creative space for Nail Technicians to showcase their skills. With several locations, they offer opportunities for growth and professional development.
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Tricoci Salon & Spa
Average Salary: $30,200
Tricoci Salon & Spa is known for its beauty education and services. They offer a supportive environment where Nail Technicians can build their skills and advance their careers.
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BlueStar Resort & Golf
Average Salary: $29,833
BlueStar Resort & Golf provides luxury beauty services. They offer Nail Technicians a chance to work in a prestigious setting with opportunities for professional growth.
How to earn more as a Nail Technician?
Becoming a Nail Technician opens up many opportunities to earn a good income. This career combines creativity and skill. It also offers chances to earn more through various means. Job seekers can consider several strategies to boost their earnings in this field.
First, gaining more certifications can lead to higher pay. Specializing in advanced services like gel nails or acrylic extensions often commands higher prices. Continuing education helps technicians stay current with industry trends. It also shows commitment to clients. Another way to earn more is by working in high-end salons. These places often pay higher wages. Building a strong reputation can also lead to more clients and referrals. It allows for charging premium prices. Networking with other professionals can open up opportunities for freelance work. This can add to income. Finally, offering package deals or promotions can attract more customers. It can increase the number of clients and overall earnings.
By focusing on these factors, Nail Technicians can increase their earning potential. It provides a path to a more rewarding career.
- Gain Certifications
- Work in High-End Salons
- Build a Strong Reputation
- Network for Freelance Work
- Offer Promotions and Packages



