What Cost Cutters charges and what's included
Cost Cutters is a chain of hair salons owned by Regis Corporation, operating in the United States and Canada. The chain positions itself as a budget option, with prices lower than full-service salons but higher than some independent discount shops. Haircut prices vary by location and service type — a basic men's haircut typically costs less than a women's cut or style, and prices differ between provinces in Canada and between states in the U.S.
Cost Cutters offers haircuts, color services, perms, and styling. Most locations also provide waxing. The salon does not publish a single national price list; instead, individual locations set their own rates within a range. You can call your nearest salon or check their website to see what they charge for the specific service you want. Many locations offer first-time customer discounts or run promotions through their loyalty program, which you can join in-salon or online.
Unlike some salons, Cost Cutters does not require appointments at most locations — you can walk in and wait, though wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Some locations do accept online booking through their website or app. The salon typically does not charge a consultation fee before a cut or color.
Key Takeaways
- Cost Cutters prices vary by location and service, so you need to contact your specific salon to know what you'll pay for a haircut or color.
- The chain accepts walk-ins at most locations but also offers online booking at some salons, so you can choose whether to wait or reserve a time.
- A loyalty program offers discounts and promotions, and first-time customers often receive an introductory discount.
- Cost Cutters is part of Regis Corporation and operates in the U.S. and Canada, but individual salon policies and pricing differ by location.
How Cost Cutters compares to independent salons on price
Independent salons vary widely in price depending on the stylist's experience, the neighborhood, and the salon's positioning. A neighborhood independent salon may charge similar prices to Cost Cutters for a basic cut, while a high-end independent salon in an urban area can charge two to three times as much. Cost Cutters' advantage is consistency — you know roughly what to expect at any location in the chain, whereas independent salons have no standard pricing.
Independent salons often allow you to book with a specific stylist, whereas Cost Cutters assigns you to whoever is available. If you want continuity with the same person cutting your hair, an independent salon may give you that option more reliably. However, Cost Cutters' lower price point means you can afford to try different stylists or visit more frequently if budget is your main concern.
How Cost Cutters compares to other chain salons
Other national chains in the budget-to-mid-range category include Great Clips, Supercuts, and Sport Clips (which specializes in men's cuts). These chains operate similarly to Cost Cutters — walk-in or appointment options, prices set by location, and no consultation fees. Pricing among these chains is generally comparable, though specific prices depend on your location and the service.
Great Clips and Supercuts have more locations overall than Cost Cutters in many regions, which may affect your convenience. Sport Clips focuses exclusively on men's haircuts and styling, so if you want a women's cut or color, you would not use that chain. Cost Cutters offers a broader range of services under one roof, including color and waxing, which can be useful if you want multiple services in one visit.
What to expect during your first visit
When you arrive at Cost Cutters, you'll check in at the front desk. If you're a walk-in, you'll be added to the wait list and given an estimated time. If you booked online, you'll check in when you arrive. A stylist will call you back to their station and ask what you want done — this is when you describe your desired cut, color, or style. Bring a photo on your phone if you want to show a specific look.
The stylist will wash your hair (for most services), cut or color it, and style it. The entire appointment typically takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the service. When finished, you'll pay at the front desk. Cost Cutters accepts cash, card, and digital payment methods. Tipping is customary; most salons include a tip line on the receipt or card reader.
Loyalty programs and discounts
Cost Cutters offers a rewards program that you can join in-salon or through their website. Members typically receive discounts on services and may earn points toward future visits. The program is free to join. First-time customers often receive a discount on their first service — the amount varies by location, so ask when you call or arrive.
Promotional offers change seasonally and by location. Some salons run specials on color services or package deals (for example, a cut and color together). Check the Cost Cutters website or call your local salon to see what's currently available in your area.
How to find your nearest Cost Cutters location
Cost Cutters maintains a location finder on their website where you can enter your zip code or city and see salons near you, along with their hours and phone numbers. You can also call ahead to ask about pricing for your specific service, current wait times, or to book an appointment online if that location offers it. Some locations have their own social media pages where they post promotions or updates.
Hours vary by location but typically include evening and weekend appointments at most salons. If you're looking for a specific service like color correction or a complex style, calling ahead to confirm the salon can handle it is a good idea, since some smaller locations may have limited availability for time-intensive services.
What to know about color services and other treatments
Cost Cutters offers hair color services, including single-process color, highlights, and root touch-ups. Color pricing is separate from cut pricing and depends on the length of your hair, the type of color service, and the salon's rates. Perms and chemical treatments are also available at most locations. Because these services take longer and use more product than a basic cut, they cost more and may require a longer appointment window.
If you've had color done elsewhere and want a correction or change, tell the stylist about your previous color history. Some corrections take longer or cost more because they require special techniques. Waxing services (eyebrows, upper lip, legs) are available at most Cost Cutters locations and are priced separately from hair services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to make an appointment at Cost Cutters or can I just walk in?
Most Cost Cutters locations accept walk-ins, and you'll be added to a wait list. Some salons also offer online booking through their website or app. Call your local salon to ask whether they take appointments and what their current wait times are.
How much does a haircut at Cost Cutters cost?
Prices vary by location and service type. Men's cuts typically cost less than women's cuts or styles. Call your nearest salon or check their website to see their current pricing. First-time customers often receive a discount.
Can I request a specific stylist at Cost Cutters?
Cost Cutters assigns you to the next available stylist. If you want to work with the same person each time, you can ask the front desk if that stylist has a regular schedule and try to book when they're working, but the chain does not may provide stylist continuity the way some independent salons do.
What payment methods does Cost Cutters take?
Cost Cutters accepts cash, credit cards, debit cards, and digital payment methods like Apple Pay and Google Pay. Tipping is customary and can be added to your card payment or given in cash.
Does Cost Cutters offer color services and how much do they cost?
Yes, Cost Cutters offers single-process color, highlights, root touch-ups, perms, and other chemical treatments. Color pricing is separate from cut pricing and depends on hair length, service type, and location. Call your salon for specific pricing on the service you want.