How much do tattoos cost ? (2024)

FAQs

How much do tattoos cost ? ›

Many tattoo artists charge an hourly rate, ranging from $50 to $300 per hour or more, depending on their skill level and reputation. Hourly rates may be more common for custom designs or larger, more detailed pieces.

On average you can expect to charge $50-100 for a small tattoo, up to $200 for a medium tattoo and over $250 for a large tattoo. The sky is the limit though when it comes to very large pieces. It can be very expensive to get elaborate and large tattoos.

A palm-sized tattoo usually runs between $200-500, and medium to large tattoos (about 8”) usually range from $300-600. Half sleeves typically start around $1,000 and full sleeves often range from $2,000-$4,000.

For designs under 2x2 inches, you can expect to pay our shop minimum, around $100. If you're considering a 3x3 inch design, the price typically falls within the $150-$200 range. For larger tattoos measuring 4x4 inches or more, prices start at approximately $250 and go up from there.

Large tattoos, such as full sleeves, back pieces, or expansive designs that cover multiple body parts, can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000, or more.

On average, tattoo artists charge $100 to $250 an hour, although in certain cases, high-profile tattoo artists charge more. Consider how in-demand your prospective artist is, based on factors such as their number of Instagram followers as well as awards given to the studio or artist, which can help determine rates.

Tattoos are very painful for some people, while others may experience less pain. Tattoos may also hurt more on certain body parts, such as the head and knees. For a permanent tattoo, the tattoo artist will inject tattoo ink, which contains tiny colorful particles, into the dermis layer of the skin.

The general consensus in the tattoo community is that 20 percent is the typical amount to tip—just like at a restaurant or a hair salon. However, consider this number a baseline, as some tattoos require more or less work than others.

Considering a tattoo but not yet ready to commit to something large or colorful? Then a finger tattoo might be just what you're looking for. For a simple outline design, these can be as little as $50 to $100. But if you want something with detail or perfectly sharp lines, you can expect to pay as much as $500.

A small (2” by 2”) tattoo could be priced anywhere from $30 to $100 on average, and a tattoo double that size (4” by 4”) could cost you somewhere between $150 to $250.

Do you tip on a $500 tattoo? ›

“Some tip less, and some are very generous." For instance, you might wonder how much to tip for a $500 tattoo. In this case, tipping anywhere from $75 to $125 would be appropriate. If you're getting smaller art done or maybe a touch-up for $100, tipping anywhere from $15 to $25 fits the bill.

Half-Sleeve Tattoo Cost

The average cost for a half-sleeve tattoo is $500 to $1,500. It can span either the bicep or the forearm.