Your Instagram feed is popping and your TikTok tutorials are getting serious engagement. So why bother with a website? If this sounds like you, you're not alone – many salon owners today rely solely on social media to promote their business. But here's why that strategy is holding you back…
Did you know... In the US, there are 450,000 Google searches per month for “hair salons near me”?
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Let's talk numbers that should make every salon owner pay attention: as of January 2025, there are 450,000 monthly searches for "hair salons near me" in the United States alone. That's nearly half a million potential clients actively looking for services like yours. But here's the crucial part – Google's local search algorithm heavily favors businesses with websites when determining which salons to show in these "near me" searches.
Why? Because a website gives Google's algorithm much more information to work with than a social media profile. Your website can include your exact location, service area, business hours, types of services, and detailed descriptions of your expertise – all factors that help Google understand when to show your business to potential clients. While your social media profiles might appear in search results, they typically rank lower and provide less comprehensive information than a proper website.
Think about what happens during these "near me" searches: Google displays a map with three local businesses (known as the "Local Pack") at the top of the results. Below that are organic search results. Both these prime positions are predominantly filled by businesses with websites. Without a website, you're essentially invisible to these high-intent customers, letting those 450,000 monthly searches flow directly to your competitors who have established a proper web presence.
Even better, a website allows you to target specific services in your area. Beyond "hair salons near me," people search for "balayage specialist near me," "curly hair salon near me," or "bridal hair stylist in [your city]." A well-optimized website helps you appear in these specialized searches, connecting you with clients looking for your specific expertise. Social media posts, no matter how beautiful, simply can't compete with a website when it comes to search engine visibility.
Common scenarios a website helps fuel growth hair salons
Picture this – a new family moves into your neighborhood. Mom needs a cut and color and her teenager wants highlights. Where do they look? Not Instagram. They Google "hair salons near me," read a few websites, and book with the salon that looks most professional online.
Or consider this: A bride-to-be is planning her wedding from out of state. She's researching hair stylists for her big day six months in advance. She needs to see your bridal portfolio, pricing packages, and booking policies all in one place. A series of social media posts won't give her the confidence to book – but a professional website with a dedicated bridal section and a custom contact form would.
Your website also serves as your digital portfolio – a permanent showcase of your work that isn't buried under yesterday's social media posts. When potential clients search for "balayage specialist" or "curly hair expert" in your area, they should find your website showcasing your expertise in these services. Right now, those searches might be leading them to your competitors.
Drive growth for Your Salon by Word of Mouth
Having a website also transforms how you handle referrals – one of the most valuable sources of new clients. When a happy client recommends you to their friend, sharing your website instantly elevates that referral. Instead of saying "Look up [your name] on Instagram," they can share your website where their friend can immediately see your full service menu, browse your portfolio, check your availability, and book an appointment. It's a powerful first impression that sets you apart from other recommended stylists. Having a professional website signals to your community that you're serious about your business and in it for the long-term. It shows you're investing in your clients' experience and building a lasting presence in the community – something that resonates strongly with clients looking for their "forever" stylist.
Get a new website for your hair salon, go live in just 14 days
Ready to take your salon's online presence to the next level? Start by securing your domain name. With 450,000 potential clients searching for salons every month, you can't afford to stay invisible. If your website wins over just one new client per year, it will more than pay for itself – think about the lifetime value of a satisfied client who visits every 6-8 weeks. Those searching clients are ready to book, your current clients are ready to refer you, and your community is ready to support a salon that's built to last – make sure they can find you online with a website that reflects the quality of your work.
PremPage has teamed up with salons of all types to create beautiful websites, helping them run and grow long-term. Get started today for just $19 per month. Sign up and get started here.