Cheap Cuts

by Valerie Moloney - Citysearch Editor - 335 Reviews - 98 Lists

Updated: July 10, 2007

You enjoy the compliments that come with looking good, but scoring a bargain thrills you even more. Besides, is it ever worth it to fork over three figures for a simple haircut? These Chicago salons will trim your locks for under $20 so you can walk out feeling guiltless and fabulous.

Cuts under $20

  1. 1 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Sine Qua Non Salon II
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    3417 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657 (map)

    Students have to learn somewhere, don't they? If you're willing to have your locks snipped by an apprentice, the payoff is a free haircut. Just don't forget to tip.

  2. 2 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended Big Hair
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    2012 W Roscoe St, Chicago, IL 60618 (map)

    The staff sports enough dye jobs and tattoos to make you think you've stumbled upon an indie record store, but this Roscoe Village storefront lined with funky artwork and postcards on the walls is actually a beauty salon. If you're going for a spa-like experience, this isn't it. But can you really complain when the haircuts are $14?

  3. 3 Pivot Point Beauty School
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    1560 Sherman Ave, Evanston, IL 60201 (map)

    When you're living on pizza for dinner and breakfast and your parents' allowance, getting your hair done for $11 is a great idea. This Evanston beauty school, which is close to Northwestern, might even leave you with a little left to splurge on a $30 facial.

  4. 4 1 Star Rating: Poor Great Clips
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    539 W Diversey Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614 (map)

    Weekends and after work are always hot times for this no-appointment salon, where cuts set you back just $14. For regular maintenance, the no-frills chain suits the mostly male clientele just fine, but women, don't write the experience off. You'll still be able to get Posh's bob style and Heidi Klum's bangs -- you just might have to bring a photo.

  5. 5 2.5 Star Rating: Below Average Aveda Institute Chicago
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    2828 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657 (map)

    If you don't mind surrendering your beautiful mane to to the scissors of a student, then this Aveda school could be your spot for $14 trims. However, keep in mind that you could be sitting in that chair for hours, as licensed instructors monitor the progress of your stylist apprentice.