Everyone has felt the struggle of trying to find a good barbershop. Between inconsistent cuts, long wait times, and unpredictable results, the search can feel impossible.

It can be even harder when you’re in a new town and don’t know where to start.

Luckily, State College has plenty of barbershops. But with so many options, how do you know which ones to visit? To narrow your search, we’ve compiled our favorite spots to get a fresh cut.

Whether you’re looking for a new regular spot or need a weekend haircut, here are our staff picks for the best barbershops near Penn State.

Brian Kriley: Owen’s Barber Shop

As a townie, I feel well-versed in speaking on this subject. I have gone to many barbershops around State College over the years, but I’m confident saying that Owen’s is my favorite.

While it isn’t on campus, any student with a car or a friend who can drive should check it out.

Tadhg Gorman: For Men Only Hair Salon

My personal favorite barbershop downtown is For Men Only Hair Salon.

Tim has cut my hair every time I’ve visited, and he has been great, always giving me exactly what I ask for and being very helpful when I don’t know what I want.

Having curly hair, I normally find it very hard to find a good barber or hairstylist who can get it right, but For Men Only made that search very easy.

Michael Zeno: Rinaldo’s Barber Shop

Located right off East College Ave. and South Allen Street, I got the recommendation to go to Rinaldo’s Barber Shop my freshman year from my sister’s friends. It’s been my go-to for the last three years.

Rinaldo’s is always open during the week, so I can go between classes for a short wait time, a nice personal experience with a barber who can talk ball, and a good haircut.

Sean Regenye: Owen’s Barber Shop

I was put on by one of my friends to check out Owen’s Barber Shop on North Atherton Street, and I haven’t looked back. It has a classic barbershop feel and only takes cash, but haircuts are relatively cheap, and I’ve never spent more than 10 minutes in the chair getting a haircut.

If you have a car and want a great trim at a reasonable price, I’d highly recommend Owen’s Barber Shop. 

Ryan Poskitt: The Whiskey Barber Salon

Tanya Campbell recently opened The Whiskey Barber Salon. She previously worked at For Men Only, which is already a great barbershop.

Campbell was one of the top-rated barbers at her old spot, and her new salon has a really clean country aesthetic.

The shop offers free hair washes with your haircut, and the employees are super friendly. Also, the haircuts are always perfect. The Whiskey Barber Salon is right next to Sizzling Bites, so the location is convenient, and the pricing is well worth it.

Robert Delorenzo: For Men Only Hair Salon

For Men Only has been my spot since I first went. They even wash your hair out after the haircut, which is the best part and definitely keeps me coming back.

For Men Only also offers a nice fade and products that help keep your hair healthy in the long run.

Collin Ward: Silver Scizzors

I am not sure how many folks know about Silver Scizzors, but I have loved it. No matter who cuts your hair, they measure different parts of it so they can cut it to the same length every time.

The prices are reasonable, and the shop is located right across from the Bagel Crust on East Calder Way.

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