Pedicures range from quick 30-minute polish-and-shape appointments to elaborate 90-minute spa rituals with paraffin wax, exfoliation, and extended massage. Most salons offer a tiered menu — classic, spa, deluxe — and the differences come down to the products used and the time spent.
Classic pedicure
The baseline: foot soak in warm water, nail trim and shape, cuticle care, callus filing on the heels and ball of the foot, exfoliation scrub, calf and foot massage, base coat, two coats of polish, and top coat. Total time is usually 45 minutes. Expect to pay $28–$52 nationally, with the West coast and Northeast trending higher.
Spa or deluxe pedicure
Spa pedicures add a sugar or salt scrub, a clay or moisturizing mask, paraffin wax dip, hot stone massage, or a combination. Total time is typically 60–75 minutes. Pricing runs $45–$85. Worth it if you want a relaxing experience and not just a polish change.
Gel pedicure
Same flow as a classic or spa pedicure, but with gel polish instead of regular. Gel pedicures last 3–4 weeks (longer than gel manicures because feet aren't exposed to as much wear and tear). Expect to add $10–$15 to the base pedicure price.
Sanitation matters
Pedicure foot baths are the highest-risk piece of equipment in any salon — improperly cleaned jet tubs can harbor bacteria. Reputable salons either use disposable plastic liners inside the foot bath or use jetless basins that are easier to fully sanitize between clients. If you can hear jets running and don't see a fresh liner, ask about the salon's cleaning process before sitting down.
Seasonal foot-care tips
In summer, exfoliate the heels at home weekly with a foot file and apply a thick moisturizer overnight to prevent the cracking that comes with sandal weather. In winter, swap aggressive callus removal for hydrating treatments — paraffin wax dips help. If you wear closed-toe shoes most of the year, your nails grow slower and you can stretch pedicure intervals to every 5–6 weeks.
Diabetic and sensitive-skin pedicures
If you have diabetes, neuropathy, or sensitive skin, look for salons that advertise medical or diabetic pedicures. These appointments avoid sharp implements (no aggressive callus blades), use gentler products, and focus on safe nail trimming. Always disclose health conditions when you book — a good technician will adjust the service accordingly.
Pricing by U.S. region
The table below shows typical 2024 pricing ranges for Pedicure in each major U.S. region. Independent salons in residential areas tend to land at the lower end; shops in shopping centers and dense metro corridors tend to land at the upper end.
| Region | Typical price |
|---|---|
| Northeast | $48–$75 |
| Midwest | $42–$65 |
| South | $42–$65 |
| West | $50–$85 |
Pricing baselines drawn from public industry surveys (IBISWorld 2024 nail-salon report, Nailpro pricing surveys, Yelp average pricing data). Confirm with each salon.
Pedicure by city
Local pricing, appointment length, and salons offering pedicure in major U.S. cities. Each city page lists featured salons and typical regional pricing.
Featured Pedicure salons
A sample of salons across the country that typically offer pedicure. Browse the city directories above for the full local list.