Let us say it — finding out the true cost of hair extensions can feel like a guessing game. One salon quotes $150, another says $900, and suddenly you’re wondering if everyone’s just pulling numbers from a hat.
Here’s the truth: in 2025, inflation and global supply shifts have pushed prices up across the beauty industry. Quality extensions generally range from $100–$600 (and higher for premium, long, or custom-colored options). But your final cost depends on many small factors — length, texture, origin, and even how you install them.
So, instead of vague “it depends” answers, this guide breaks it all down — with actual examples, tables, and a simple Hair Extension Cost Calculator you can use to find your personalized total in under 30 seconds.
Let’s uncover where your money really goes when you invest in great hair.
Price Drivers: Length, Grade, Origin, Processing, Color, Weft Type
If you’ve ever wondered why two bundles that look similar are priced so differently, these are the six main reasons why.
Length
Hair is typically priced per gram or per bundle, and the longer it is, the higher the cost. Why? Longer strands require more raw hair and careful sorting.
- 12″ Remy bundle (100g): around $90–$120
- 18″: about $130–$160
- 24″: roughly $190–$230
- 30″: easily $250+
On average, the cost of hair extensions increases by 20–30% for every 6 inches of added length.
Grade (Virgin vs. Remy vs. Non-Remy)
- Virgin hair: Never processed, all cuticles aligned — highest quality and price ($250–$400 per 100g).
- Remy hair: Gently processed, aligned cuticles, smooth finish — mid-range ($120–$250).
- Non-Remy: Mixed directions, silicone-coated for shine — budget-friendly ($60–$120).
💡 Tip: Cheap hair often costs more in the long run because it tangles and needs frequent replacement.
Origin
Hair origin affects both texture and price due to availability.
| Origin | Average Price Difference | Texture Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brazilian | Baseline | Full-bodied, blends with many hair types |
| Indian | −$50 | Lightweight and voluminous |
| Peruvian | +$80 | Softer and silkier texture |
| Malaysian | +$100 | Naturally smooth, durable |
| European | +$150 | Rarest and most expensive |
Processing
Processing impacts durability and pricing by 30–50%.
- Raw (unprocessed): Most natural, lasts longest, premium pricing
- Steam-processed: Maintains curl patterns without chemicals — moderate cost
- Chemically treated: Shorter lifespan but lowest upfront price
Color
- Natural black/brown: Baseline
- Dyed shades: +$15–$40
- Blonde/highlighted: +$50–$100
- Custom ombré or balayage: +$75–$200
Weft Type
| Weft Type | Typical Price (per 100g) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Machine weft | $100–$150 | Affordable, durable |
| Hand-tied weft | $150–$250 | Lightweight, flexible |
| Genius weft | $180–$300 | No return hair, ultra-flat, premium look |
Cost of Hair Extensions by Type: Clip-Ins vs. Tape-Ins vs. Sew-Ins vs. Wigs
The cost of hair extensions varies dramatically by installation method. Here’s what to expect in 2025:
| Type | Extension Cost | Installation | Lifespan | Total Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clip-ins | $100–$400 | DIY | 1–2 years | ~$150 |
| Tape-ins | $200–$600 | +$150–$300 | 8–10 months | ~$800 |
| Sew-ins | $150–$400 | +$200–$600 | 6–9 months | ~$900 |
| Fusion/Keratin | $300–$800 | +$300–$1000 | 4–6 months | ~$1200 |
| Micro-links | $250–$600 | +$250–$800 | 6–8 months | ~$950 |
| Wigs | $150–$2500 | None | 1–3 years | Varies |
💬 Example: If you choose 22” Remy tape-ins, expect roughly $450 for hair + $250 installation, plus $100 every 6–8 weeks for maintenance.
Salon Installation Cost of Hair Extensions vs. DIY Costs
Professional Installation
Pros:
- Seamless blending and natural look
- Guaranteed longevity with proper care
- Included consultation and styling
Cons:
- Costs more upfront
Price snapshot (2025):
- Tape-ins: $150–$300
- Sew-ins: $200–$600
- Fusion: $300–$1000
- Move-ups: $75–$200 every 6–8 weeks
Cost of Hair Extensions in DIY Installation
Great for clip-ins or halo extensions. You’ll need tools like pliers, thread, or tapes ($30–$80 one-time investment).
DIY saves you up to 40%, but poor installation can shorten lifespan.
1-Year Cost Comparison Example:
| Type | Professional | DIY |
|---|---|---|
| Tape-ins | $950 | $650 |
| Clip-ins | $150 | $120 |
| Sew-ins | $900 | $600 |
Build Your Cost Calculator
Want exact numbers? Use our Hair Extension Cost Calculator to get your total instantly — or calculate it manually with this simple formula:
Base extension cost + (color premium) + (length premium) + installation + (maintenance × frequency) = Total annual cost
First Example: Budget-Conscious First Timer
- Type: Clip-ins
- Length: 18”
- Grade: Remy
- Color: Natural
- Installation: DIY
Total: ~$160
Second Example: Special Occasion Premium
- Type: Tape-ins
- Length: 22”
- Grade: Virgin
- Color: Blonde balayage
- Installation: Professional
Initial cost: ~$750
1-year cost: ~$1,050
Third Example: Long-Term Investment
- Type: Sew-in
- Length: 24”
- Grade: Virgin
- Texture: Curly
- Installation: Professional + 3 move-ups
Total Annual Cost: ~$1,200
✨ Try it yourself with our calculator here to see how your cost of hair extensions stack up.
How Joice Prices Its Products + Value Add
Our Pricing Philosophy
At Joice Hair, we believe transparency builds trust. That’s why our 20” Remy bundles start at $139, compared to the $180 market average.
By cutting out middlemen, we keep prices fair for both salon professionals and everyday customers.
What’s Included in Our Price
- Quality Control: 6-point inspection ensures every bundle passes smoothness, thickness, and longevity tests.
- Packaging: Protective resealable bags with care cards included.
- Shipping: Free on orders over $150, fast local delivery, and tracked international shipping. Return and exchange policies here.
- Guarantee: 30-day quality promise + friendly support for any issues.
Bundle Savings
Buy three bundles and save up to 20% — perfect for full installations or salon restocks.
Our quality control reduces tangling issues by 80% compared to market averages.
Estimate Your Cost of Hair Extensions / Shop Bundles
- Get Your Personalized Quote — based on your selections, we’ll show you exact pricing and bundle recommendations.
- Browse Bundle Deals — save up to 30% when buying complete sets.
💗 Free shipping on orders over $150
💗 30-day quality guarantee
💗 Trusted by 5,000+ customers
FAQs
Why is Remy hair more expensive than non-Remy?
Remy hair keeps each strand’s cuticle aligned, preventing tangling and matting. Non-Remy is mixed and coated with silicone — shiny at first, but it wears off fast. You’re paying more upfront for Remy, but it lasts 3–4x longer.
Do longer hair extensions always cost more per gram?
Not always. Longer bundles are pricier overall because of scarcity, but per gram, bulk buyers often get better value.
How much should I budget for my first set of extensions?
Start with $300–$600 for quality Remy hair, tools, and installation. It’s enough for natural-looking length without compromising quality.
Are expensive extensions worth it?
Yes, when judged by cost per wear. Premium extensions can last up to two years with proper care — often cheaper over time than replacing cheaper sets every few months.
Can I reuse hair extensions?
Clip-ins and tape-ins can be reused 3–5 times with proper care. Always store them clean, dry, and detangled.
English
French
Spanish
German
Italian
Arabic
Dutch
Portuguese
Russian