NYC Nail Guide: 5 Affordable Nail Salons That Don’t Skimp on Quality
I have been on the hunt for the best nail salons in New York City. I have been an avid nail girly I can confidently say - finding a spot that does a good job and won’t break the bank is always a struggle. Why can we not have it all? Over the past 2 years I’ve searched high and low for the best nail techs and salons using my follower’s recommendations. These are some of my favorites so far.
The criteria?
Price: I want to get my nails done without going broke! We need spots that are somewhat affordable.
Quality: Do they nail (pun intended) the design? How much do they pay attention to detail?
Environment: Is the space clean? Bonus points if they have snacks and drinks!
Honorable mention: Do they take walk ins? Because if you’re anything like me, you’re probably deciding day of that you need your nails done. We need a place that matches our spontaneity.
Now lets get into it…
Brooklyn Nails Bar and Lash
860 Ramsen Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11236
Nail tech: LyLy Price: $70 (I did have a 25% discount applied). Tell them I sent you and receive 15% off your first set.
Sometimes nails are worth the treck and this nail salon is proof of it. Located in Canarsie, this nail salon offers a luxury experience without the hefty price tag. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with a beautiful salon space - from chandeliers to comfy chairs. They offer a range of drinks like delicious bubble tea, Thai iced tea, and wine with any service over $30. Now THAT is customer service! Aside from the stunning interior and delicious drinks - the quality of work is impeccable. They executed my nail design better than the photo and did it in less than 2 hours! The best part? The prices! Regular manicures begin at $20 and full gel x sets at only $60.
Shiny Nail Spa
2513 Adam Clayton Powell Jr Blvd, New York, NY 10027
Nail tech: Jojo Price: $80
This Harlem nail salon truly has it all. From affordable prices, to skilled nail techs, and more. This is probably one of my favorite shapes I’ve had in the city. I went in unsure if they’d be able to execute the design I wanted and left pleasantly surprised. I received so many compliments. To may surprise, the total was only $80 for a Gel X manicure with design. You truly cannot beat it.
Emmy Nail
303 Livingston Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Nail tech: Alex, Price: $110
This salon gave me the Christmas nails of my dreams! Located in Downtown Brooklyn, Emmy Nail checks all of the boxes - clean, affordable, and QUALITY! The service was incredible. I came in with 3–4 different holiday designs saved and my nail tech didn’t just copy them, he worked with me to create a set that felt totally custom and me. Honestly, so many salons rush through or stick to one design, but Emmy takes their time to make sure your vision actually comes to life. That kind of attention to detail feels like a lost art… and they’ve definitely mastered it.
Nail Peak
1549 Broadway, Brooklyn NY 11221
Nail tech: Sandy, Price: $120
This is my ride-or-die nail salon in New York City. Every year, without fail, I come here for my birthday nails because I do not play about that. Nail Peak is one of those rare spots where you just know your nails are going to eat every single time. They can do it all— shapes, detailed designs, and everything in between. Honestly, one scroll through their Instagram is all the proof you need. No matter which tech you land with, you’re in good hands.
Got You Polished
577 Lafayette Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11216
Nail tech: Mariah, Price: It was comped but it would be $120
GotYouPolished somehow manages to deliver that intimate nail-tech-next-door kind of customer service while still running as a bigger business. I’ve known the owner, Mariah, since the days she was working out of her Brooklyn brownstone and even as the salon has grown, she’s kept that same level of warmth and hospitality. The whole team takes their time with every client to make sure you leave with nails that are top-quality without the scary price tag. Honestly, you can’t beat it!!
