A spray tan in the United States costs an average of $44.91, based on prices we collected directly from 239 salons across America. Depending on where you live and the type of tan you choose, you can expect to pay anywhere from around $25 for a basic machine tan to $90 or more for a premium airbrush session in a major city.
We did the research ourselves — contacting salons state by state — so the numbers below reflect real prices, not estimates. Here’s what we found, and everything else that affects what you’ll pay.
Key Takeaways
- The national average cost of a spray tan in the US is $44.91, based on our research across 239 salons.
- Boston is the most expensive city at an average of $68, while Charleston, WV is the cheapest at $26.67.
- Machine spray tans typically cost $25–$35. Airbrush tans run $30–$90. Mobile tans cost $60–$150+.
- The most expensive single tan we found was $89 (Bring Me Bronze, Denver). The cheapest was $12 (Great Tanz, Kansas City).
- Salon memberships can significantly reduce the per-session cost — often down to $30–$40 per tan.
- Self-tanner at home averages around $10–$30 per bottle and can replicate a spray tan look for a fraction of the price.
Average Spray Tan Cost in America: Our Research
To get accurate, real-world pricing, we contacted 239 salons across the US — pulling prices from the five most populous cities in each state where possible. We always recorded the cheapest one-time session price and excluded membership discounts or multi-visit deals to keep comparisons fair. Both machine tans and airbrush tans were included.
The result: an average spray tan costs $44.91 nationwide. That was slightly higher than we expected, with significant variation depending on location.
Most Expensive Cities for a Spray Tan
If you’re in or around Boston, New York, or Honolulu, expect to pay well above the national average. Coastal cities and major metros consistently came in at the top end of the price range.
| Location | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Boston, Massachusetts | $68.00 |
| New York City, New York | $61.80 |
| Honolulu, Hawaii | $61.00 |
| Sioux Falls, South Dakota | $60.00 |
| Los Angeles, California | $56.80 |
Cheapest Cities for a Spray Tan
The Midwest and parts of the South offer the best value. If you’re near Charleston, WV, Providence, RI, or Wichita, KS, you can get a professional spray tan for well under $35.
| Location | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Charleston, West Virginia | $26.67 |
| Providence, Rhode Island | $29.99 |
| Wichita, Kansas | $32.40 |
| Fargo, North Dakota | $34.50 |
| Little Rock, Arkansas | $34.80 |
Most Expensive Individual Spray Tans Found
At the top end, premium studios in major cities charge up to $89 for a single session. These are typically high-end airbrush services with experienced technicians and professional-grade solutions.
| Salon | Location | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bring Me Bronze | Denver, Colorado | $89.00 |
| Tanspire | Houston, Texas | $85.00 |
| Glow 2 Go | New York City, New York | $85.00 |
Cheapest Individual Spray Tans Found
On the other end, several salons offer spray tans for as little as $12–$20. These are typically machine-based sessions rather than custom airbrush work, but they can still deliver solid results.
| Salon | Location | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Great Tanz | Kansas City, Missouri | $12.00 |
| Sunsational Tanning | Providence, Rhode Island | $19.95 |
| Serendipity WV | Charleston, West Virginia | $20.00 |
| Tansoleil | Des Moines, Iowa | $20.00 |
Types of Spray Tan and What They Cost
The type of spray tan you choose is one of the biggest factors in what you’ll pay. There are three main options: automated machine, airbrush, and mobile.
Spray Tan Machine: $25–$35
An automated spray tan booth or machine is the most affordable in-salon option. You stand inside a booth and sensors release the tanning solution automatically as you move through the positions prompted by the machine.
The results are generally consistent and even, though you have less control over coverage in tricky areas compared to airbrush. A higher-quality machine will distribute the solution more evenly and prevent pooling around the feet and ankles — which is one reason prices vary even within this category. Expect to pay roughly $25–$35 for a machine spray tan.
Airbrush Tan: $30–$90
With an airbrush tan, a trained technician applies the solution by hand using a spray gun. This gives them much more control — they can build up coverage in specific areas, blend around the hairline and hands, and tailor the depth of color to your skin tone.
It’s generally considered the more premium option and is a popular choice for special events like weddings or holidays when you want the best possible finish. The cost reflects the skill involved, the quality of the solution used, and where you’re getting it done — ranging from around $30 at the lower end up to $90 or more for high-end studios. For a detailed comparison of both methods, see our article on airbrush tan vs spray tan.
Mobile Spray Tan: $60–$150+
A mobile spray tan brings the technician to you — your home, hotel room, or event venue. The convenience premium is real: you’re paying for travel time, equipment, and a more personalized service on your schedule.
Mobile tans typically start at around $60–$70 and can reach $150 or more depending on location and the technician’s experience. If you’re getting a tan for a group event — a wedding party, hen do, or photo shoot — the cost per person often works out more competitively since the technician is already there and can do multiple sessions back to back.
What Affects the Cost of a Spray Tan?
Price variation between salons isn’t random. These are the main factors that push the cost up or down:
Location
As our data clearly shows, where you live has the biggest impact on what you’ll pay. Salons in major coastal cities like Boston and New York charge significantly more than salons in smaller Midwestern cities — partly due to higher rents and operating costs, and partly due to local market pricing.
Type of Tan
Machine tans are the cheapest. Airbrush tans cost more because they require a trained technician’s time. Mobile tans are the most expensive because of the added convenience and travel involved.
Solution Brand and Quality
Salons that use premium professional solutions — brands like St. Tropez, Norvell, or Vita Liberata — often charge more for that reason. Higher-quality solutions tend to develop more naturally, last longer, and are less likely to turn orange. It’s one of the less visible price factors but a meaningful one.
Technician Experience
A highly experienced airbrush artist who has been perfecting their technique for years will charge more than someone newer to the industry. For a straightforward machine tan this matters less, but for a custom airbrush finish — especially for an event — experience is worth paying for.
Salon Reputation and Setting
A boutique studio with a strong client base, premium decor, and a well-known reputation will price accordingly. A basic tanning salon attached to a gym or beauty school is likely to be at the lower end of the market.
Shade Depth and Add-Ons
Some salons charge more for a deeper or darker shade, particularly with airbrush where extra product and time are involved. Common add-ons that can increase the price include pre-tan exfoliation treatments, rapid-development solution upgrades, and barrier cream applications.
Salon Memberships and Packages: How to Pay Less Per Tan
If you get spray tans regularly, paying a one-off price each time is the most expensive way to do it. Most established salons offer membership plans or multi-session packages that significantly reduce the per-tan cost.
- Monthly memberships: Many salons offer one tan per month for around $30–$40, or unlimited tans for $50–$70/month. If you’re paying $45–$55 per session individually, a membership can pay for itself quickly.
- Session packages: Buying a block of 5 or 10 tans upfront usually comes with a 10–20% discount. These are a good option if you don’t want a recurring subscription but tan consistently throughout the year.
- First-time client deals: Many salons offer a discounted or even free first session to new clients. It’s worth searching for these when trying a new salon — they give you a chance to test the quality before committing.
- Seasonal promotions: Salons often run deals around spring and summer when demand increases. If you’re flexible on timing, waiting for a promotional window can save you 20–30% on individual sessions.
If you plan to get tanned more than once a month, always ask about membership pricing before booking a one-off session.
How Much Do Spray Tan Alternatives Cost?
A salon spray tan isn’t the only way to get a bronze finish. Here’s how the main alternatives compare on cost.
Tanning Beds: ~$15 per session
Tanning bed sessions are generally cheaper than spray tans, typically costing around $10–$25 per session depending on the bed type and salon. Many gyms and salons offer monthly unlimited tanning memberships for $20–$50.
The lower cost reflects the trade-off: tanning beds use UV radiation, which can cause skin damage with repeated use over time. If you’re comfortable with that and want a cost-effective way to maintain a natural-looking tan through summer, they remain a popular option. For more on UV exposure, the FDA’s guidance on UV radiation is worth reading. You can also browse our tanning bed guides for more detail.
Self-Tanner at Home: $10–$50 per bottle
Self-tanner is the most cost-effective option overall. A good self-tanning mousse costs around $15–$35 and will last through multiple applications. Budget options start from around $10, while premium formulas from brands like St. Tropez or Bondi Sands run $30–$50.
The active ingredient is DHA (dihydroxyacetone), which reacts with the amino acids in the top layer of dead skin cells to produce a temporary tan color. Results can look as natural as a professional spray tan when applied correctly — and with practice, most people get good at it. Browse our self-tanning guides for application tips and product recommendations.
For people who get spray tans regularly, self-tanner can also be a useful and cheap way to maintain or extend a salon tan between appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a spray tan cost on average?
Based on our research across 239 salons in the US, the average cost of a spray tan is $44.91. Prices range from around $12 at the cheapest to $89 at the most expensive, depending on location and type of tan.
Is airbrush tanning more expensive than a spray tan machine?
Yes, generally. A machine spray tan typically costs $25–$35, while an airbrush tan — applied by a technician by hand — ranges from $30 to $90. The extra cost reflects the skill and time involved. For a full comparison, see our article on airbrush tan vs spray tan.
How long does a spray tan last?
Most spray tans last 5–10 days. Lighter shades tend to fade faster (around 5 days), while medium and darker tans can last 7–10 days with proper aftercare. Showering less frequently and moisturizing daily will help extend your results. For more on this, see our spray tan aftercare guide.
Are spray tans worth the money?
For most people, yes — especially compared to the cost and risks of UV tanning. A spray tan gives you immediate, even color without sun exposure. Whether it’s worth it for you depends on how often you tan and whether the result justifies the price at your local salon. If cost is a concern, a salon membership or self-tanner can bring the price per tan down significantly.
How can I get a cheaper spray tan?
The most effective ways to reduce cost are: signing up for a salon membership if you tan regularly, buying a multi-session package, looking for first-time client offers at new salons, and timing your bookings around seasonal promotions. Self-tanner at home is also a genuinely good option for those comfortable with the application process.
Does mobile spray tanning cost more?
Yes. Mobile tans typically start at $60–$70 and can go up to $150 or more. You’re paying for the convenience of having the technician come to you. The per-person cost can be more reasonable when booking for a group, such as a wedding or event where multiple people are getting tanned in the same session.
How many days before an event should I get a spray tan?
Ideally 1–2 days before. A spray tan looks its best after the first shower, when the surface bronzer has rinsed away and the developed color settles evenly. Getting it too close to the event (same day) risks smearing or patchiness. For more timing advice, see our article on spray tan before vacation.
Final Thoughts
The average spray tan in America costs around $45, but there’s a wide range depending on where you live, the type of tan, and the salon you choose. If you’re in a major coastal city, expect to pay more — if you’re in the Midwest or South, you’re likely to find competitive pricing without having to compromise on quality.
For occasional tanners, a one-off session is the simplest option. For anyone tanning more than once a month, a salon membership or package almost always works out cheaper per visit. And if budget is the priority, a quality self-tanner at home can deliver results that are surprisingly close to a professional spray tan at a fraction of the cost.
Before your next appointment, make sure you know how to prepare properly — our spray tan instructions guide covers everything you need to do beforehand for the best result.