How Much Does a Wig Cost? A Complete Guide to Wig Pricing

Wigs are a fun, practical way to try out new hairstyles and colors without any permanent changes. But if you’re looking for something a little more realistic than a bright pink wig for a Halloween costume, you’re probably wondering how much does a wig cost and if investing in a good one is worth it.

Wig prices vary a lot. So, whether you’re buying one for style, convenience, or medical reasons, it helps to know what affects their cost. In this guide, we review everything you need to know about wig pricing, from affordable finds to high-quality options. We’ll cover what makes synthetic and human hair wigs different in terms of price and what to expect when shopping for each type. 

Read on to discover how expensive wigs are and how to find the best one for your style and budget. 

Factors That Affect the Cost of Wigs 

When it comes to how much wigs cost, a few main things determine what you’ll end up spending. One of the most significant factors, for example, is the material of your wig. Here are some differences between synthetic and human hair wigs and what makes each unique in terms of cost.

Material: Synthetic vs. Human Hair 

Wigs generally fall into two main categories: synthetic and human hair. Human hair wigs tend to be pricier, but there’s a reason for it. They look and feel natural and are more versatile for styling as well as being more durable. Synthetic wigs, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly and can still look good for certain occasions, as well as for one-time or limited usages, such as for Halloween or other costumes.  

Human Hair

So, how much do human hair wigs cost, and why are they more expensive than synthetic ones? The answer lies in the quality and the work of creating them. Human hair wigs can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on factors like hair type, length, and cap construction. 

Here are some of the most popular types of human hair wigs and what makes them differ in price:

• Virgin European Hair: This is the gold standard and the priciest option when it comes to how much a good wig costs, mainly because it is made of human hair that is  untreated and has that natural, high-end look that synthetic wigs just can’t achieve. 
• Processed European Hair: This hair type has undergone gentle treatments, but is still a high quality, and less expensive than virgin european hair.  It features a high quality texture and feel, and is all human hair.  Again, it is a major step up vs. synthetic options when it comes to realism, durability, and feel.
• Premium Processed Human Hair: This type, which again is comprised of all human hair, has been treated a bit to maintain a consistent color and texture. Processed human hair wigs are a little more affordable than virgin hair or processed european hair but still offer superior quality and greater durability and natural look and feel than synthetic hair.

Length and Style 

The length of your wig and the complexity of its style also play a big role in the overall price. Longer wigs usually cost more, especially when looking at human hair options. Think of it this way: the more hair a wig has, the more material and craftsmanship go into making it, which drives up the cost. This is how wig lengths typically break down:

• Short (16 inches and shorter): Usually the most affordable since they require less hair and less effort to style.
• Mid (17 to 20 inches): A middle-ground option that balances length and cost.
• Long (21 to 24 inches): These come at a higher price due to the extra hair needed and the skill involved in creating a natural look.
• Extra Long (more than 24 inches): The priciest due to the significant amount of hair required.

Density

Beyond the length of hair, the amount of hair used for a wig or topper is also an important factor affecting cost.  Density refers to the number of hair strands per square inch.  The more hair that is used, generally the more expensive the wig or topper.

Low density wigs, such as Milano Collection’s Princess Wigs, Ponytail Wigs, and Divine Wigs and Toppers, have become increasingly popular among wig enthusiasts due to their natural appearance and realistic look.  

Medium density wigs offer a versatile option that strikes a balance between natural appearance and ample volume, and are more in the mid-price range - again, dependent on other factors as well such as type of hair used and length of hair.  The Gisele, Reese, Nicole, Victoria, U-Shape and HatFall, Premium processed wigs, and the Luxe Virgin European wig are all considered medium density wigs.

High density wigs are well liked by those seeking a glamorous, voluminous look and offer an abundance of hair allowing wearers to create updos, or long, cascading styles.  These tend to be more expensive as more hair is used per square inch.  An example of this is Milano Collection’s Amber wig which is a full density wig, offered in a silk-top 26” extra long length.

Construction: Cap Design and Features 

How much a nice wig costs will also depend on how it was made because not every wig is constructed equally. If you’ve worn wigs before, you know that different types of caps offer various levels of comfort, natural appearance, and styling flexibility:

• Hand-Tied Caps: These tend to be more expensive as they require more hand labor.  Every hair is individually tied by hand to a soft mesh cap.  
• Closed Wefted Caps:  The back has a lightweight stretch material that the wefts are sewn on.  The cap is adjustable and very durable, and it is the most popular cap construction.
• Open Wefted Caps: The back has wefts (rows of hair) sewn onto an open cap.  It is lightweight and adjustable, and is used primarily for hatfalls, which are wigs that are designed to be worn under hats offering a breathable, lightweight solution for wig wearers..  This cap construction is generally less expensive as it uses less hair.

How Much Are Good Wigs? Is It Worth Paying More?

When it comes to choosing the right wig, it all depends on your budget and what you need the wig for. If you’re planning on wearing it full-time or very frequently, you may be wondering how much does a real hair wig cost. On the other hand, if you want to experiment with different styles before committing to a top-quality piece or only plan to wear it occasionally, your needs—and budget—may be different.

So, to help you make an informed decision, we’ve compared what you can expect from inexpensive wigs versus high-end options. The chart below covers essential factors like durability, appearance, fit, comfort, and maintenance so you can find the right balance between cost and quality.

Comparing Inexpensive and High-End Wigs

Insurance May Cover the Cost of Wigs

Wigs, especially medical or custom-made ones, can be expensive, but in some cases, your health insurance might help cover at least part of the expenses. Medical wigs are designed for individuals experiencing hair loss due to medical conditions such as alopecia, chemotherapy, or other treatments. They are often more expensive due to their comfort, quality, and natural look. Custom-made wigs tailored to individual needs can come at an even higher cost. 

If you need a custom hairpiece for a medical reason, these tips might help you secure insurance coverage:

1. Check Your Insurance Coverage

Start by reviewing your health insurance policy or speaking directly with your insurance provider to see if wig coverage is included. This information is usually found in the “durable medical equipment” section or “prosthetic devices.” Some policies explicitly cover cranial prostheses, which include medical wigs.

2. Establish Medical Necessity

Insurance companies often require proof that the wig is medically necessary, so, have your doctor or medical specialist write a prescription or a letter explaining that the wig is needed due to a medical condition. Try to use the term “cranial prosthesis” in the documentation to increase the likelihood of approval.

3. Gather Documentation and Proof

Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including a prescription from your doctor, medical records supporting your condition, and an itemized bill or estimate from the wig supplier. The more detailed and accurate the documentation, the better your chances of approval.

4. Be Patient and Persistent

Getting a wig covered by insurance can take time, and you may not receive approval the first time. Be prepared for delays and stay persistent. Regular follow-ups and checking the status of your claim can keep the process moving.

What to Do if Your Insurance Rejects Your Claim

If your insurance claim is denied, don’t panic; most insurance companies have an appeals process that allows you to contest their decision. 

Start by reviewing the denial letter to understand why your claim was rejected. Then, gather any additional documentation or evidence needed to strengthen your case, such as more detailed letters from your doctor. Submit your appeal within the time frame specified by your insurer and continue to follow up regularly. If necessary, contact patient advocacy groups to help you through the process.

Milano Wigs Helps you Find the Best Wig for Your Budget 

Finding the right wig doesn’t have to be overwhelming, no matter your budget. Whether you’re looking for an affordable synthetic wig or a high-end human hairpiece, there are options out there for everyone. The key is to consider your personal needs, lifestyle, and how much for a good wig you’re willing to spend.

At Milano Wigs, we’re here to make finding your perfect wig fun and simple. With our virtual appointments, you can get personalized assistance from the comfort of your home, and get a wig that’s tailored to your exact specifications. And best of all, all consultation appointments are completely commitment-free.

Remember, quality wigs are available in every price range, so there’s no need to get a piece you don’t love just because of your budget.