How much does a men’s haircut cost in Australia?

A men’s haircut in Australia typically costs between $25 and $45 at a barber shop, and $50 to $70 at a salon. Prices vary depending on location, stylist experience, and the complexity of the cut.

How much does a women’s haircut cost in Australia?

Women’s haircuts in Australia generally range from $60 to $120 or more. A basic trim might start at $50, while a restyle with a senior stylist can exceed $150 in capital cities.

Do you tip hairdressers in Australia?

Tipping is not expected in Australia. Hairdressers are paid a fair wage and prices already reflect the cost of service. That said, a small tip of $5 to $10 is always appreciated if you are happy with the result.

How can I save money on haircuts in Australia?

You can save money by visiting a junior stylist, booking during off-peak hours, spacing out appointments, and comparing prices across salons. Many salons also offer package deals when you combine a cut with colour.

17 April 2026

How Much Does a Haircut Cost in Australia? (2026 Guide)

Whether you’re budgeting for a regular trim or planning a complete colour transformation, knowing what to expect price-wise helps you choose the right salon. Here’s a breakdown of haircut and colour costs across Australia in 2026.

Men’s haircut prices

A standard men’s haircut at a barber shop typically costs between $25 and $45. This usually includes a clipper cut or scissors cut, a style, and sometimes a neck shave. Barbers who invest in quality tools — like precision barber scissors — tend to deliver cleaner, longer-lasting cuts.

At a unisex salon, men’s cuts tend to run higher — between $50 and $70— because you’re paying for the salon environment, a wash, and styling products. Some high-end salons in Sydney or Melbourne charge $80 or more for a men’s cut.

Women’s haircut prices

Women’s haircuts have a wider range because of the variety of services involved. A basic trim or maintenance cut starts at around $60, while a full restyle with a senior stylist can cost $120 or more.

In capital cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, expect to pay at the higher end. Regional towns and suburban salons are typically 20–30% cheaper. A wash, cut, and blow-dry is the most common service and usually sits between $80 and $110.

Kids’ haircut prices

Children’s haircuts are the most affordable, typically ranging from $20 to $35. Some barber shops offer kids’ cuts for as little as $15, while family-friendly salons with dedicated kids’ chairs and entertainment charge closer to $30–$40.

Colour service prices

Colour is where salon bills really add up. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

Root touch-up or tint: $80–$130
Half-head foils: $150–$220
Full-head foils: $200–$300
Balayage or ombre: $250–$400+
Vivid or fashion colours: $200–$400+

These prices usually include the application, processing time, toner, and blow-dry. Longer or thicker hair will cost more because of the extra product and time required.

What affects the price of a haircut?

Several factors influence how much you’ll pay at the salon:

Location:Inner-city salons in Sydney and Melbourne charge 30–50% more than suburban or regional salons due to higher rent and operating costs.
Stylist experience:A junior stylist might charge $60 for a women’s cut, while an artistic director at the same salon charges $150.
Hair length and thickness: More hair means more time, more product, and a higher price. Many salons add a surcharge for extra-long or extra-thick hair.
Products and tools: Salons that use premium colour lines and invest in professional hairdressing scissors made from Japanese steel tend to charge more — but the quality of the cut and colour is noticeably better.
Salon ambience: Complimentary drinks, luxurious interiors, and a premium experience all add to the cost.

Tipping in Australia

Unlike the United States, tipping is not expectedin Australian salons. Hairdressers are paid under award wages and prices already reflect the full cost of service. That said, if you’re genuinely happy with the result, a small tip of $5–$10 is always appreciated. Some salons make this easy with a tip option at the EFTPOS terminal.

How to save money on haircuts

Getting a great haircut doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are some ways to keep costs down without sacrificing quality:

Book with a junior stylist:They’re fully qualified and often 30–40% cheaper than senior stylists. Many do excellent work.
Visit during off-peak hours: Some salons offer discounts on Tuesday to Thursday appointments.
Space out your appointments:A well-executed cut by a skilled stylist should last 6–8 weeks. Don’t feel pressured to rebook every 4 weeks.
Compare prices: Use findme.hair to compare salons in your area and find one that fits your budget.
Ask about package deals: Many salons offer a discount when you book a cut and colour together.
Skip the blow-dry:If you’re comfortable styling at home, ask for a cut-only price — it can save $20–$30.

The bottom line

Haircut prices in Australia vary widely depending on where you live, who cuts your hair, and what services you need. As a general guide, budget $30–$50for a men’s cut, $70–$120for a women’s cut, and significantly more if colour is involved. The most important thing is finding a stylist who listens, delivers consistent results, and makes you feel great.