Box braids are top-tier popular hairstyles that never go out of trend but keep evolving. There is no denying how much this braids hairstyle has had a cultural impact. Celebrities like Janet Jackson, Beyonce Knowles, Alicia Keys and Brandy, just to name a few, have worn box braids with elegance and glamour.
They are salon services, but nowadays, you can book a home appointment, or the salonist can go anywhere, especially if you can afford to pay extra or are a celebrity. So, how much do box braids cost?
What is the Average Cost of Braids?
The average cost of box braids ranges between $100 and $300, but it can range from as little as $75 to as high as $500, depending on several factors. This cost can go as high as $900 for highly skilled technicians and celebrity hairstylists.
Unfortunately, there is no definite answer to the cost of box braids because it depends on various factors. However, these factors will help you determine how much you might expect to spend to avoid underpaying or overpaying for the service.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Braids?
The cost of box braids differs depending on various factors. Some of them include:
1. Length and Thickness of the Hair
Different lengths and thicknesses of hair take different hours, which will affect the cost of braids. The most expensive box braids are the ones that reach the waist, but you can expect to pay more than $200 in almost every market. The common box braid lengths include:
a). Long-Box Braids
Long braids should be your go-to if you are after a dramatic look. However, keep in mind that these braids may get in your way or make you feel uncomfortable sleeping at night.
b). Short-Box Braids
When it comes to short braids, one of the most popular styles is short box braids that are styled into a bob.
c). Medium–Box Braids
Medium box braids may be appealing to some beauties, although it’s not the common length. You will often see ladies with either short or long braids and hardly the medium length.
2. Style of the Braid
Styles often complicate doing braids and will take longer. So, if you want a complex box braid style, you may have to pay a higher price because it will take longer to finish.
3. Size of the Braid
Box braids come in three sizes:
a). Chunky Jumbo Box Braids
Jumbo box braids are popular thanks to their dramatic yet fashionable appearance, but some people complain that they are too heavy and cause tension on the hair strands. These braids can be done between 45 minutes and three hours and since they are larger, expect them to last a maximum of six weeks.
Expect to pay about $75 to $175 at a salon, plus use about eight packs of pre-stretched braid hair to achieve a mid-length look. Also, how complicated your style is will impact the box braid prices.
b). Medium-Sized Box Braids
Some beauties may rock these braids, which come in various colors and make an excellent option to retain hair length. The sections are slightly large, and it takes less time to install than medium box braids, and they will take about five to seven hours.
This size will last you about eight to ten weeks and will cost you about $125 and $275 plus the price of 10 packs of pre-stretched braided hair.
c). Thin, Micro Braids
Thin micro braids can last the longest and get up to 10 to 12 weeks. They might need 9 to 12 hours to work on them, and multiple stylists may need to complete the look simultaneously. Also, micro box braids might need to be done over a few days, so you can expect them to be the most expensive, costing $150 and $450.
4. Customer’s Age
Some salons and stylists will charge a minimum of $150 to do box braids but charge children $100. The hair length and size of box braids will affect the price.
5. Location
The location usually affects many things, including the cost of box braids. Your stylist may charge more or less since markets sometimes differ drastically according to the market.
Some location-based factors that may affect the cost of box braids could include competition or population. For example, prices in large cities such as Atlanta, New York, and Los Angeles may be on the higher side, but prices outside the United States may be unpredictable.
6. Choice of Stylist
The stylist you choose to work with will affect the cost of your box braids because their braiding experience will impact the price you pay. The expert or popular braiders will have a higher price point, and they will likely have limited availability for appointments.
However, a new stylist or a less-experienced one will not charge as much for their braiding services. So, if you are on a budget, you should try working with someone new to braiding. However, ensure they are working with or supervised by a more experienced stylist to prevent mistakes.
Are There Additional Costs?
When booking an appointment, most stylists or salons will need you to pay a non-refundable deposit of about $50. This non-refundable fee is if you don’t show up, cancel last minute or are late.
In addition, before the box braiding session starts, you must prepare your hair properly first. It should be shampooed, conditioned and go through a hot oil treatment. These services may cost anywhere between $10 and $20 each.
For hair extensions, the price could start at $15 for adults and $7 for teenagers and kids, but the cost could be higher for natural extensions. Also, if you want to take the braids down, you will have to spend some money depending on the size of the braids.
