How Much Does a Tattoo Cost? Examples + Golden Tips
Did you know that the cost of a tattoo can vary dramatically based on size, design, and location? If you’ve ever thought about getting inked, understanding how much a tattoo costs is essential to budgeting for your new body art.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know, including a handy calculator to estimate your tattoo expenses, real-life examples of what others have paid, and useful price tables. By the end, you’ll have a clear idea of what to expect financially before you sit in the artist’s chair.
How Much Does a Tattoo Cost? | Real Price Examples
Nothing better than seeing to believing. When it comes to tattoo prices, understanding the factors that influence cost can help you budget for your dream ink.
- Dotwork and Fineline – USA: A detailed tattoo in Phoenix, Arizona, costs $1,900 because it takes nine hours of skilled work.
- Lettering Blackwork – Poland: A simple black tattoo in Krakow, Poland, costs $50 and takes only an hour with a beginner artist.
- Abstract Black & Grey – Brazil: An abstract tattoo in Brazil may cost $300 for five hours of shading by a seasoned artist.
- Abstract Neo Traditional – UK: An intricate design in London costs $600 over two sessions due to its complexity.
- Microrealism – France: A stunning microrealism piece in Paris, France, costs around $950 for about 10 hours of work by a skilled artist.
Price Tables
Tattoo price tables can provide valuable insight into what you can expect to pay based on various factors such as design complexity, artist experience, and location.
Average Tattoo Costs Per Artist Level
| Artist Level | Average Cost (USD) |
| Starting Out | $120 – $250 |
| Apprentice | $170 – $320 |
| Established | $280 – $400 |
| Experienced | $380 – $550 |
| Popular (>50k IG followers) | $550 – $800 |
| World’s Top (>200k IG followers) | $1200 – $1500 |
Tattoo prices can vary widely based on the artist’s skill level and experience. Highly skilled and experienced artists often charge more, reflecting their quality and craftsmanship.
Average Tattoo Costs Per Region
| City | Average Cost (USD) |
| San Francisco, USA | $530 |
| New York, USA | $500 |
| Los Angeles, USA | $440 |
| Sydney, Australia | $430 |
| Washington, USA | $420 |
| Oslo, Norway | $390 |
| Dallas, USA | $390 |
| Denver, USA | $350 |
| Amsterdam, Netherlands | $350 |
| Berlin, Germany | $330 |
| Paris, France | $320 |
| Dublin, Ireland | $320 |
| Tokyo, Japan | $320 |
| London, UK | $270 |
| Stockholm, Sweden | $270 |
| Madrid, Spain | $240 |
| Rome, Italy | $235 |
| Warsaw, Poland | $155 |
| Lisbon, Portugal | $150 |
| São Paulo, Brazil | $80 |
| Rio de Janeiro, Brazil | $75 |
The biggest factor affecting the cost is the artist’s hourly rate. The chart above shows about three hours of work from an artist in each area.
Average Tattoo Costs Per Size
| Size | Average Cost (USD) |
| Tiny (Minimal) | $135 |
| Small (< 5cm / 2″) | $165 |
| Medium (Up to 10cm / 4″) | $490 |
| Large Standalone (Up to 20cm / 8″) | $810 |
| Half Sleeve | $970 |
| Full Sleeve | $1.300 |
| Full Back | $3.300 |
Created by an experienced artist with a moderate level of detail.
Other Elements to Consider
When determining the price of a tattoo, several elements come into play beyond just the artist’s base rate.
Aftercare Products
The costs continue after getting a tattoo. Taking care of your new ink is important for your skin’s health and the tattoo’s quality. You should buy aftercare products.
Antimicrobial soap costs about $15, a good tattoo balm is around $20, and specialized tattoo lotion is usually about $16. These products help prevent infection and keep your tattoo looking fresh for years.
Tattoo Shop Location
When considering the price of a tattoo, the shop’s location plays a crucial role. In urban areas where the cost of living is higher, tattoo shops often charge more to cover increased overhead costs like rent and utilities.
For example, a tattoo parlor in a bustling city center in Europe will typically have higher prices compared to one situated on the outskirts.
This disparity highlights the importance of researching various studios, both in your immediate area and nearby cities, to understand the price range you might encounter.
Color vs. Black & Gray
Color tattoos typically demand more time, skill, and materials, leading to higher costs. Artists must navigate various ink shades, which not only adds complexity but also extends the duration of each session.
Each color change requires careful attention to detail, ensuring that the hues blend seamlessly and maintain vibrancy over time.
Also Read: How Many Sessions To Remove Tattoo
Tipping
Tipping in the tattoo industry varies, especially since it’s mostly practiced in the USA and some English-speaking countries. Many European countries do not have a tipping culture. Although tipping is not required for tattoo artists, it shows appreciation.
If your artist impressed you with their creativity and care, consider tipping 20% to 25%. For good work that met your needs, a tip of 10% to 20% is suitable, while a basic experience might deserve just 10%.
Golden Tips
- When you think about tattoo prices, include all extra costs.
- In the US, remember to check for tax and tip for your artist.
- Spending more on a tattoo you’ll love for life is smarter than saving money now, cover-ups can cost much more than the original tattoo.
- Since tattoos last forever, invest wisely based on where the tattoo will be on your body.
- Consider the long-term effects of your tattoo choice.
- The most expensive and painful part may be laser removal if you decide to remove it later.
Conclusion
Understanding the various factors that influence tattoo cost is essential for anyone considering getting inked. From the size and complexity of the design to the artist’s experience, each element plays a role in determining the final price.
Location and studio reputation can also affect tattoo cost significantly. It’s important to set a budget that reflects your priorities and to remember that investing in quality work can lead to a more satisfying outcome. So, take your time, do your research, and find the right artist for your unique vision.