From trendy cuts to expert color treatments, Columbia's hair salons offer a range of services to suit every style.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent10 companies evaluated
cover story
★ Editor's ChoiceMetropolis Salon
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 10 Columbia-metro hair salons businesses evaluated, top 10 ranked by Vetted Score.
Finding the right hair salon can transform not just your look but also your confidence. Columbia, SC, is home to a vibrant community of salons that cater to various styles and preferences, ensuring that residents can find expert stylists to meet their needs.
Our list evaluates 10 local salons based on customer reviews and ratings. We focus on salons that demonstrate consistent quality and service, providing you with trustworthy options for your next hair appointment.
10hair salons evaluated in Columbia
4.80average rating across the field
4.3Kcustomer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
We assessed each salon's performance based on customer reviews, ratings, and overall reputation in the Columbia area. Each business is ranked according to a transparent Vetted Score, ensuring that no one pays for placement in our rankings.
This ranking is refreshed monthly to reflect the latest data, ensuring our recommendations remain current and relevant for your hair care needs. Last updated June 13, 2026.
The Vetted Score: six weighted factors
Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%
Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.
With an impressive rating of 4.9 from 1,060 reviews, Metropolis Salon stands out for its exceptional service and talented stylists. Customers consistently praise the salon for its trendy atmosphere and personalized attention, making it ideal for those seeking a fresh style or a complete makeover. However, due to its popularity, booking an appointment can sometimes be challenging.
Hyde Salon - Vista boasts a stellar 4.9 rating from 963 reviews, making it a favorite among locals. Reviewers commend the salon for its high-quality haircuts and color services at reasonable prices. It's particularly well-regarded for its friendly staff and welcoming environment. A potential downside is that the salon's popularity can lead to a busy atmosphere during peak hours.
Austral Salon has earned a 4.8 rating from 668 reviews, highlighting its strong reputation in the community. Clients rave about the salon's attention to detail and the expertise of its stylists, making it a great choice for precision cuts and vibrant color work. However, some customers have noted that the salon can be slightly pricier than others in the area.
Vivid! Color Cut Style has a solid 4.8 rating from 148 reviews, making it a reliable option for those seeking bold styles and vibrant colors. Customers appreciate the salon's creative approach and the ability of stylists to bring their visions to life. However, the review count is relatively low, making it a promising but unproven option for some.
Shear Xpectations Salon holds a rating of 4.9 from 82 reviews, showcasing its commitment to customer satisfaction. Clients often express delight in the personalized service and quality results they receive. It's particularly well-suited for those seeking a cozy, neighborhood salon experience. However, the smaller review base makes it a promising but unproven choice for newcomers.
Cline's Salon Vista has a commendable 4.8 rating from 141 reviews, appreciated for its welcoming vibe and skilled stylists. Reviewers often highlight the salon's ability to achieve desired styles while providing a relaxing experience. However, some clients have mentioned that the salon can get busy, which may lead to longer wait times during peak hours.
Mark Edward Salon maintains a solid 4.8 rating from 140 reviews, making it a favorite among clients seeking stylish cuts and color treatments. Customers appreciate the salon's attention to their individual needs and the skilled stylists. However, some reviews mention that prices can be on the higher side, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious clients.
The Noir Salon has a commendable 4.8 rating from 123 reviews and is known for its modern aesthetic and skilled stylists. Clients often praise the salon for its ability to create trendy looks tailored to individual preferences. However, the salon's limited hours may not be convenient for everyone. That is a substantial body of feedback for a local operator, enough to trust the rating rather than credit a lucky streak. Most of what reviewers hire it for is trendy hairstyles. It serves Columbia, SC, with $35 to $130 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are limited hours and potentially higher prices.
process. A Hair Salon has a rating of 4.7 from 231 reviews, making it a reliable option for those in need of hair services. Reviewers appreciate the salon's focus on the client experience and the skilled stylists. However, the mixed feedback suggests that experiences may vary, so it's worth considering personal preferences when booking an appointment.
Carolina Hair Studios offers a rating of 4.6 from 707 reviews, known for its friendly staff and a variety of services. Clients often appreciate the casual atmosphere and the range of styling options available. However, the overall rating suggests that while it's a solid choice, it may not stand out compared to higher-rated salons.
Selecting the right hair salon involves considering your personal style, the services offered, and the salon's reputation. Here are key factors to keep in mind.
Check Reviews
Look for salons with consistently high ratings and positive feedback from clients.
Consider Services Offered
Ensure the salon provides the specific services you need, whether it's cuts, color, or styling.
Visit the Salon
If possible, visit the salon beforehand to gauge the atmosphere and speak with stylists.
Ask for Recommendations
Word-of-mouth referrals from friends or family can lead to trustworthy options.
What it costs
What hair services cost in Columbia
Hair salon prices in Columbia can vary widely based on the services you choose, the salon's location, and the stylist's experience. Here's a general breakdown of what to expect.
Basic Haircut$30 to $60, depending on the salon and stylist.
Color Services$70 to $150, based on the complexity of the color treatment.
Styling Services$40 to $100 for blowouts and special occasion styling.
Hair Treatments$25 to $75 for deep conditioning or specialty treatments.
Frequently asked questions
How much does hair services cost in Columbia?
Hair services typically range from $25 to $150, depending on the service and salon.
What should I look for in a hair salon?
Look for salons with high ratings, positive reviews, and stylists who specialize in the services you need.
How often is this ranking updated?
We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.
Our verdict
For most Columbia residents: Editor's Choice Metropolis Salon
For a top-notch experience, Metropolis Salon leads the pack with its exceptional ratings and customer service. Close behind are Hyde Salon - Vista, offering great value, and Austral Salon, known for its precision in cuts and colors.
Cityvetted
