Ethical but affordable nail salons?

Howdy! I've been getting my nails done around the city for years but have yet to find the holy grail: a salon that's on the cheaper side, does good work, and doesn't exploit their techs. I went to Cindy's for years but stopped going a few years back because it's always crazy crowded and I got my cuticles nicked on more than one occasion because they were trying to hustle people in and out as quickly as possible. Other favorite spots have included Avalon on Magazine and Amy's off Tchoup. Any suggestions? Am I delusional for trying to find a place that hits the mark and costs $50 or less for a gel mani? Thanks in advance!