Where do I start with “local salons” ?

So today’s consultation with Hair Club was interesting but 7K first year out of pocket and a 3 month waiting period for placement was a major turnoff.

I need options. It seems so many on here have great experiences outside of Hair Club and I’m clueless as to where to start. I live outside of Chicago so unsure if there is anything or anyone nearby that has experienced local salons or a less expensive alternative.