2026 Average Cost of Haircut and Highlights

Achieving the perfect hairstyle often involves combining a haircut with highlights, but these services can add up. On average, the cost of a haircut in the US ranges from $40 to $77, and highlights typically range from $75 to $150.

Real 2026 Prices for Highlights (Zoca Beauty Price Index)

Based on real published menu prices from 121 salons (456 highlights listings) across the Zoca network, highlights typically runs $125–$225, with a median of $175.

Source: Zoca Beauty Price Index — real service-menu prices from 121+ salons, July 2026. Prices vary by provider experience, products, and add-ons.

What it costs

The average cost of a haircut and highlights varies nationally.

This is an essential consideration for many striving for a modern look.

A haircut itself ranges from $40 to $77 according to salon menus.

Yet, haircut prices can reach up to $165 in premium salons.

For detailed pricing, check our listings.

What moves the price

Various factors influence the pricing of haircuts and highlights.

This is critical for understanding potential costs prior to booking.

Location, stylist experience, and hair length all play a role.

City rates differ from suburban costs, affecting your final bill.

Discover more details in our blog on what affects salon prices.

The length and condition of your hair can impact cost, with longer hair typically being more expensive. Additionally, the kind of salon, whether high-end or standard, affects pricing significantly.

Cost breakdown by option

Explore common haircut and highlight options with their price ranges.

Knowing these can help you choose the right service for your budget.

Here's a table of common combinations:

How to pay less without regretting it

Strategic choices can lead to significant savings on hair services.

Avoid skimping on colorist expertise and hair health-related products.

Choose substitutes like toner or root touch-ups to reduce expenditures.

Prioritize essential services like base color correction over extras.

Discover smart spending tips in our newsletter.

Economizing without compromising style, you might go for apprentice stylists or look for package deals offered by salons. Maintaining open communication with your stylist about your budget can also ensure clarity and satisfaction.

Is it worth it

Assessing cost against service longevity is vital in hairstyling choices.

This highlights the importance of informed decisions when selecting options.

Average highlight last 6–8 weeks, requiring routine upkeep.

Considerations include chemical damage, especially from cheaper dyes.

For lasting results, view our quick guide.

Weigh the costs against low-maintenance alternatives such as semi-permanent dyes or strategic trimming. These options offer a fresh look without frequent salon visits.

Regular maintenance sessions, coupled with quality aftercare products like Aquaphor for hair health, ensure a lasting finish. Balancing these considerations helps align your style desires with your financial comfort zone.

Questions to Ask During Your Consultation

Before booking a haircut and highlights appointment, prepare a list of pertinent questions to ensure you receive the best possible service. Inquire about the stylist's experience with your hair type and preferred style to ensure they are equipped to deliver your desired results. Ask if the salon offers a toning service since some charge up to $35 extra for this. Clarify whether the price includes a blow-dry and styling, or if these incur additional charges. Discuss the products used, as this can impact the final outcome and subsequent maintenance. Lastly, question the expected duration of the appointment, especially for comprehensive services like balayage, which can take 3–4 hours. These queries help set the right expectations and prevent surprises during payment.

Quality Indicators to Look For

Recognizing high-quality service in the salon industry involves observing both the environment and the professional handling your hair. An experienced colorist often holds certifications or has significant years of practice, particularly with highlights and cuts. Look for a stylist who provides thorough consultations and is transparent about techniques and products. Assess the cleanliness and organization of the salon, as these are telltale signs of a professional setting. Additionally, pay attention to reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations, especially regarding how long the highlights last and the overall satisfaction with the service. Quality also reflects in product use; salons using premium or well-known brands may justify higher costs due to the longevity and health these products provide for your hair.

How Long Do the Results Last?

Understanding the longevity of a haircut and highlights can affect your decision to invest in these services. Generally, haircuts last four to eight weeks before requiring a trim. Highlights' duration varies by type. Partial highlights often last two to three months, as their subtleness allows for more natural regrowth. Full highlights typically last the same but can become noticeable sooner due to the complete coverage. Balayage is favored for its low maintenance, as this type fades and grows out gracefully over three to four months. Discuss with your stylist how frequently touch-ups might be necessary, and remember that longer durations between appointments can mean less immediate outlay but may require a slightly higher upfront investment for quality color.

Aftercare and Maintenance Costs

Aftercare is crucial to maintaining the salon-quality look of your haircut and highlights. Beyond the initial cost, consider investing in products designed for colored hair to prolong the vibrancy of your highlights; this can amount to an extra $10–$20 monthly for specialized shampoos and conditioners. Regular salon visits for toning might be necessary every 4–6 weeks if your highlights start to fade or develop unwanted hues, an additional $35 each time. Thermal protectants and deep conditioning treatments help maintain hair health, especially if your services include comprehensive processes like balayage. Discuss with your stylist any recommended at-home care strategies to ensure that your style remains fresh between visits, keeping ongoing maintenance within your budget.

Unanticipated Costs to Watch Out For

Before you schedule an appointment for a haircut and highlights, be aware of potential add-on services that may drive up the bill unexpectedly. Olaplex or deep conditioning treatments might be suggested to protect hair health, with prices ranging from $20 to $45. While some salons bundle trimming with highlights, others may charge separately; always clarify beforehand. Another charge can occur if a specific color needs adjusting post-process, which may involve a $35 toner fee not initially discussed. Verify with your stylist what services are included to avoid surprise costs.

When the Cheaper Option Is the Right Call

Opting for a less expensive haircut or highlights doesn't always mean compromising on style or quality. For instance, if your hair isn't excessively damaged or long, a mid-range salon can provide excellent results for basic haircuts. Similarly, choosing partial highlights instead of full can save you up to $50, especially if you're seeking a subtler change. Students or those new to coloring might find discounted services from salons offering training days. Remember, choosing budget options doesn't mean settling; ensure the stylist understands your vision and is comfortable with the techniques you desire.

Evaluating Stylist Training and Experience Levels

When choosing a stylist for your haircut and highlights, their level of training and experience can significantly affect the outcome and price. Experienced stylists typically charge more, up to $165 in premium settings, but they bring a wealth of skill that can ensure your desired results. For those testing the waters or working within a tighter budget, junior stylists at reputable salons can offer competitively priced services while being professional and well-supervised. Ask about your stylist’s specific training in coloring techniques and how many similar requests they handle regularly, to gauge if they're the right fit for your needs.

Timing Your Appointment Right

Scheduling your haircut and highlights can impact both cost and convenience. Many salons offer discounts during off-peak hours or weekdays to fill slower times. This could mean lower prices and more flexibility in choosing your stylist. Additionally, consider booking your appointments well in advance of special occasions or holiday peaks, when demand and pricing can increase. Lastly, managing the timing of haircut and highlight sessions together can save both time and potential additional costs, as services bundled together are often cheaper than individually scheduled sessions.