The Complete Tattoo Pricing Chart Guide: How Much Do Tattoos Cost?

Whether you're looking to get a tattoo on a whim, or have been planning your full chest for the past decade, you'll need to put some serious tattooing dough aside. Tattoos don't come cheap, and at the end of the session, you're also expected to tip them.

In this guide, we will explain what affects the cost of your tattoo, how to predict the cost, and how to know if your tattoo artist is stealing from you. So, without further ado, let's take a look at how much tattoos cost, what factors affect the price, and which designs will cost you extra money.

Tattoo Price Table (2022 Update)

We have created a price chart that will give you average price range your tattoo, depending on the size and location. These two factors are perhaps the most important, but the experience of the tattoo artist also matters a lot.

For more information on what can make a tattoo costly, read "Factors Affecting Tattoo Prices" below or contact the tattoo parlors you have shortlisted.

Obviously, a minimalist triangle symbol forearm tattoo will be much faster and cheaper than a detailed photorealistic portrait, so the price range and time can vary greatly.

Prices for tattoos around the world!

From California to Omaha, there are some amazing tattoo parlors in the USA. Finding out their prices is often as easy as calling them or checking their website. But what if you want to get a tattoo while on vacation?

Here is a list of some of the most popular places in the world to get a tattoo, with the currency in which prices will be quoted and a general idea of ​​how they compare to US prices.

UK

Tattoo prices in the UK will be priced in GBP and GBP. As a rule, prices are higher for almost everything in London, the capital. This is due to the higher prices for tattoo parlor rentals and the experience - it's fair to say that the best British tattoo artists are usually located in London. Tattoo parlors in other countries may be cheaper.

Compared to the US, tattoo prices in the UK are slightly lower. The average cost of a tattoo in the UK is commonly known as £130, which is roughly equivalent to $170 (at today's exchange rate). The cost estimate showed that the average price of a tattoo in the US was $245, although this may simply be because the British prefer smaller tattoos!

Ireland

In Ireland you will need the euro. As with American tattoo parlors, there is usually a base rate of €50 to cover the cost of equipment, workplace sterilization, etc. Getting a Celtic harp or shamrock tattoo while traveling to Dublin is incredibly common, so prices can be inflated. for tourists there.

Interestingly, there is no minimum age legislation in Ireland, although most tattoo artists will ask your parents for permission if you look too young.

New Zealand

There are many tattoo parlors in New Zealand, especially in Auckland. Most of them require a deposit or have a base rate for tattoos, around $100 depending on the size and style of the tattoo. Very talented Maori and Japanese tattoo artists can usually be found in this part of the world, but be prepared to pay even more for them.

When looking at New Zealand tattoo prices online, you may see a dollar sign, but this usually refers to the New Zealand dollar (NZ$) and not the US dollar. 1 New Zealand dollar is equal to approximately 70 cents in US dollars.

Australia

As in New Zealand, dollar prices probably refer to Australian dollars and not US dollars - keep this in mind when requesting quotes and doing research online. As usual, the most expensive (but also the most talented) tattoo artists can be found in major cities and urban areas:

Melbourne

The minimum charge is usually around $100, with tattoo prices calculated per hour rather than a flat rate. As a result of our research, we found that the number of tattoos in Melbourne is slightly higher than in other Australian cities - perhaps this is due to the fact that Melbourne is a very eclectic place that attracts many young people. The area is known for its diverse culture, music festivals and many arts-related events.

You can find real talent in Melbourne.

Perth

Perth is a very remote city, so finding a cheaper tattoo parlor in a neighboring city is not easy! The city has a very calm atmosphere and a great sunny climate, which is the perfect place to show off your tattoos, which is why tattoos are popular here. You can find a wide variety of tattoo shops to suit all budgets.

We have seen some quotes at $250 an hour and others ready to start below $100.

Sydney

Although Sydney is not the capital of Australia (like Canberra), it is usually the biggest tourist city in the country and is the place to get a tattoo. The Australian Tattoo Show is held in Sydney and you can expect to pay a little for the ink.

Hourly prices are around $200 and starting prices (even for very small tattoos) start at $100.

Canada

In Canada, prices for small tattoos in cities (especially Toronto) start at $100, while tattoos in parlors in rural areas will cost much less. Our research has shown that tattoos are just as popular in Canada as they are in the US and UK, so there's no reason why you can't get a tattoo in Canada.

Interestingly, traditional tattoos created by local tattoo artists in Canada are making a comeback. This could be a direction to look into when considering tattoo ideas for your Canada trip!

Factors Affecting Tattoo Prices

Tattoo artists don't just set prices at random. There are many factors that affect the price of a tattoo. First of all, the work of a tattoo artist must be profitable. This means that they will have a minimum rate or starting rate covering the cost of their time and equipment.

So if a tattoo artist tells you they can't go below a certain price, please respect that!

Apart from this base rate, the style and size of the tattoo can also affect the price. You also pay for the artist's talent. The more talented they are, the more it will cost.

For example, Ryan Ashley Malarka's tattoo will set you back a minimum of $200.

Skill and experience of the artist

The higher the qualification and experience of the tattoo artist, the higher the price of the tattoo! This is a common practice in almost every serious tattoo parlor. So, if you think getting a tattoo is expensive, remember that the tattoo artist is responsible for applying permanent body art to your body.

So, they'd better charge you for it because chances are they'll be exceptional.

Of course, the easiest way to know if a tattoo artist is overcharging is to check their social media accounts and website - if the tattoos they show off are impressive, you know the high price is justified.

This is why a tattoo from a student or a new tattoo artist is cheaper. Just remember that with an inexperienced tattoo artist, you are more likely to get an unsatisfactory tattoo.

Tattoo prices and start-up costs

So far, we have mentioned base rates and equipment costs several times. To give you a better idea of ​​these costs, the average tattoo artist will need to cover the cost of:

• Tattoo Gun – About $500 for a great tattoo gun, plus more to learn how to use and operate it.
• Ink - The more colors you want, the more ink you will need to buy or unlock.
• Needles – Fresh needles and needles of different sizes/shapes will be required.
• Gloves and masks - for hygiene, you will need fresh gloves and masks for each session.
• Cleaning equipment – ​​surfaces must be sterilized and the work area must be kept clean (you actually I do not want the tattoo artist to save on this).
• Rent and maintenance costs - Keeping the tattoo parlor open and electricity is not free.

Then, on top of all these expenses, the tattoo artist must make a living by paying for his own house and setting the table with food.

Tattoo parlor location

If you plan to get a tattoo in New York, you will pay five times more than, for example, for the same tattoo in a small town or rural area. The reason for this lies in the higher cost of living and renting premises in large cities compared to smaller cities.

Moreover, high-class tattoo artists, as a rule, work in tattoo parlors in large cities, which also determines the starting cost of a tattoo. The number of tattoo artists sharing a space can change the price - when sharing a salon, the rent is shared.

Design complexity

If you want to get a tattoo with an intricate design, lots of detail, hues, and complex color scheme, then the tattoo will be much more expensive than you would expect. In addition, things like the size and location of the tattoo also tend to play a role in the final cost, so try to get the tattoo in easier places (such as the forearm) if you want to save some money.

And not only because it takes more time to create a complex tattoo. Unusual colors can be difficult to find, and changing needle sizes frequently can result in longer, more frequent sessions. Also, if the tattoo is so complex that it requires multiple sessions, remember that the tattoo artist must go through the cleaning and sterilization (and equipment) process each time. All this adds to the cost.

Colours

The cheapest tattoos are those made in black and white only. So let's say the starting price of a tattoo is $100. Well, the same tattoo, only in color, can cost twice or even three times more than a black and white tattoo.

Ink is not cheap for tattoos. Typically, a tattoo parlor has a range of inks that artists can use. When one color runs out, order more. If you need a color that is not included in the standard range, you may need to order it specifically for you. And if there is no guarantee that in the future they will have another buyer who wants the same color, then the ink will be wasted.

Size

Larger tattoos require a lot more work from the tattoo artist. They take a lot of time and require full dedication from the artist. This is why they tend to be much more expensive, since you are not only paying for the tattoo, but also for the time and experience of the artist. Obviously, the larger the area to be painted over, the more ink will be used.

Time is money, after all.

As a general guide:

• Less than 2 inches - $50 to $100.
• 2 to 4 inches - $100 to $250.
• 4 to 6 inches - $250 to $700.
• 6 inches or more - $700+

Body placement

The more difficult the tattoo, the higher the price; this is the basic rule for calculating the cost of any tattoo. If any part of the body or area requires additional care and skills, then the tattoo artist must have a lot of experience and knowledge, which is worth the money. Getting tattoos on the ankle, wrist, chest, nipple, face/lip, or intimate areas is quite expensive, mainly due to the sensitivity of these areas, as well as the design or size of the tattoo.

Also, not every tattoo artist wants to spend all day tattooing their junk! Don't expect every tattoo artist to paint your private parts without thinking - those who want to can ask for more than you expect.

Estimating the cost of a tattoo by location

You can check out our tattoo price chart above for a quick idea of ​​how much your tattoo will cost. But if you want a more detailed explanation of why tattoos cost more in certain places, find your desired tattoo area below.

If you have a particular tattoo design, you should talk to a professional tattoo artist about what area of ​​the body would be best for him. They will know what placement will look best and what size really suits the desired design.

You can consult several tattoo artists when deciding where to place your design on the body. Some experienced artists may have a different opinion than others and provide you with more options for placement at different prices.

full body tattoo

If you want to get a full body tattoo, it means that you are really dedicated and willing to pay. Well, in that case, be prepared to pay over $100,000 depending on the design and color of the tattoos. The price takes into account the time and complexity of the process. Also, keep in mind a tip for the tattoo artist(s) of between 10% and 30% of the final cost of the tattoo.

As with all tattoos, the more detailed the drawing, the longer it will take the artist. Many tattoo artists charge by the hour for super-large tattoos. This means that they will be paid for the length of time (for multiple sessions) rather than a fixed price in advance.

This allows them to complement your tattoo and extend it to a full body part without leaving your pocket.

Tattoo on arm

Tattoos on the arms usually fall into two categories - sleeves and medium/small tattoos. Either you have a wraparound sleeve that covers your entire (or half) arm, or you have a small tattoo that only covers part of your arm.

Sleeve Tattoos

A full sleeve will cost you $2,000 to $4,000 just for the outline. For example, a simple black and white geometric pattern, without shading and intricate sections.

However, if you want your tattoo to have more detail, shades, or even different colors, be prepared to cash out between $6,000 and $7,000. The reason for the high price is because of how labor intensive and labor intensive sleeve tattoos are. They often require multiple sessions, and it can take days, even weeks, for the tattoo artist to complete the entire tattoo.

A half tattoo will of course cost less money, but not always half the price of a full sleeve - this is because whether you have a full sleeve or a half sleeve, you are still paying for the equipment and ink colors. Prices for a half sleeve tattoo typically start at $800 for a simple (one color, no feathering) tattoo to $2,000 for a highly detailed tattoo that wraps around the shoulder or forearm.

Forearm Tattoo

The forearm tattoo is one of the most popular tattoos all over the world. Forearm tattoos look great no matter the design or size; and they are often more artistic than tattoos on other parts of the body. Luckily, a good forearm tattoo will cost you between $300 and $1,300, depending on size, color, detailing, overall design, etc. But you can expect to pay less for a simple forearm tattoo with outline or inscription.

Shoulder tattoo

Typically, the shoulder creates a much wider canvas for your tattoo artist to work with. While the forearm leads to the wrist where only small tattoos are suitable, the upper arm connects to the shoulder area where much larger designs can be inked.

As a result, forearm tattoos typically cost $600 to $1,300 and up on average, depending on the style and how close they are to the sleeve.

full back tattoo

A full back tattoo will set you back between $2,500 and $5,000 for an outline alone or for a half back tattoo. However, keep in mind that a full back tattoo does not cover the entire back. It only includes the area from the bottom of the neck to the waist. So you can add a few hundred dollars more if you want the tattoo to extend to the entire lower back, shoulders, or ribs.

When it comes to full back tattoos with all the details, hues and coloration, you can expect to pay between $7,000 and $8,000 and even more if the tattoo extends to the lower back. The reason for this price is that your tattoo artist can work on a piece for several days, usually 40 to 60 hours, depending on the complexity, detailing and coloring.

Medium and small back tattoos

Generally, the back is a great canvas for your tattoo artist because it is a flat surface. However, if you are very bony, then getting a tattoo on your shoulder blades, spine, and ribs can be painful and uncomfortable, meaning fewer short sessions are needed rather than one long one.

For an average tattoo like a one shoulder portrait or a design that covers the "tramp print" area, you are looking at $300 and $700 and 5 hour session time.

Small tattoos on the back are less common because it's a bit odd to have a small tattoo on such a large area of ​​the body. It seems that the tattoo is floating! However, a small back tattoo usually costs between $100 and $450.

chest tattoo

The chest area is a popular area for tattoos. Tattoos in this area usually cover the thoracic portion of the chest. If you want to get a tattoo on or below the ribs (such as Rihanna's Isis tattoo near her solar plexus), see the Rib Tattoos section below.

Medium and small chest tattoos

Because a chest tattoo requires fewer hours of work and less experience, a chest piece can cost you significantly less than the previous two placements. For example, a small rose tattoo near a heart can cost between $100 and $300. A medium-sized tattoo that requires extra work will cost between $250 and $600.

Half Chest Tattoo

By half chest, we mean that exactly half of your chest will be completely covered in ink. It might even include a nipple! For large tattoos like this one, you are definitely looking at the top of the price range. Be prepared to pay around $450 for a simple design and up to $1,200 for a complex one.

full chest tattoo

A full chest tattoo alone will cost between $600 and $1,000. A full chest tattoo with all the details, tints and coloration can push the final cost of the tattoo up to $2,000. This type of tattoo will completely cover your chest.

Shoulder tattoo

Don't be cold to your tattoo artist! Here's what to expect in terms of cost.

Tattoo on the back of the shoulder

Covering the top and back of the shoulder blade, this area of ​​the body is quite sensitive, so it may take a few more sessions than expected. A simple but large tattoo in this area will cost between $1,000 and $1,700.

shoulder tattoo

If you're thinking about getting a cool tattoo without spending thousands of dollars, consider getting a shoulder tattoo. A tattoo on the shoulder (or the round part of the shoulder) has a starting price of $800 for an outline and will add a few hundred dollars for detailing and coloring. So a large, highly detailed and colorful shoulder tattoo can cost you a maximum of $1,500.

Thigh Tattoos

Tattoos on the thigh can be in different positions, from the crotch to the outermost edge of the thigh and to the thigh or to the ribs.

hip to hip

A hip and upper thigh tattoo will set you back $500 to $1,000 just for the outline, depending on the size of course. When it comes to detailing and coloring, a thigh and/or thigh tattoo can cost you up to $2,500.

Large outer thigh

A tattoo that completely covers the thigh from the back to the front will cost a considerable amount. The price of such a tattoo may vary depending on the skill level of the tattoo artist, as well as the complexity of the tattoo itself.

Based on our research, we estimate costs ranging from $800 for a simple outline to $2,200 for a full color tattoo.

The average size

Just like medium-sized tattoos on the chest and back, the thigh is a good canvas because it's usually quite meaty and a smooth surface to work on - avoiding the thigh bone, of course. A medium-sized thigh tattoo will cost between $250 and $700.

Small inner femur

Right on the inside of the pelvic bone, along the underpants/underpants line, is a soft area popular for very small tattoos. A ladybug or small symbol looks cute in this place and will set you back between $100 and $300 depending on the complexity and color.

Face Tattoos

Facial tattoos are usually reserved for hardcore tattoo lovers, but that doesn't mean they have to cost a fortune.

full face tattoo

A full face tattoo can cost between $500 and $1,000 depending on the complexity of the design. Getting a face tattoo requires a lot of effort, so you may need to split it into multiple sessions. In addition, some tattoo artists may feel uncomfortable tattooing your entire face!

Small Face Tattoo

If you're tired of applying or drawing on your eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips every day, try getting a permanent version of each of your eyeliners and brows. Small tattoos on the face and lips, as well as cosmetic tattoos, usually fall into the same price range. According to permanent makeup masters, such tattoos can cost from $200 to $800 per procedure, depending on the wishes and requirements of the customer, as well as the experience of the master.

Miniature face tattoo

A dot near the eyebrow, a fake mole, or a single color tear is a very small and quick tattoo that an artist can create. The prices for these tattoos are usually close to the base rate - the cost of preparing the equipment plus the number of ink colors required. From 40 to 80 dollars on average for such tiny tattoos.

bespoke face tattoos

You may have heard or seen examples of crazy face tattoos, such as white eyeball tattoos or mouth tattoos. Finding the average cost of these tattoos is difficult because not every tattoo artist will want to get them - they can even hurt your eyesight.

If you want a crazy, bespoke tattoo like an eyeball tattoo, you'll need to first find an artist who can do it - you might not be able to negotiate a price.

Tattoo on fingers and hands

If you can handle the pain of a tattoo on your finger or arm, then you'll save some money for sure. These tattoos tend to have very reasonable price tags.

The average size

Medium-sized tattoos on the arm are usually located on the back of the hand and closer to the wrist. Arm tattoos can cost up to $250, depending on the design, size, and color. This very bony area of ​​the body can be painful to apply ink.

Finger Tattoos

Finger tattoos tend to cost between $50 and $100 - like a word or symbol along the side of one finger, or the initials on each finger. Tattoos on fingers and hands are always fun and cool, and are becoming more and more socially acceptable, especially for employers. So, like we said, if you can handle the pain, go for it.

Small size

A dot under each fingernail on one hand will not cost much and will not take much time. You can expect to pay the same as a tiny face tattoo - $40 to $80.

Tattoos on legs and ankles

Foot and ankle tattoos are very popular and one of the most affordable places to get a tattoo.

Medium foot tattoo

The space on the sole or top of the foot is quite small, so the largest tattoo you can get here is "medium sized" and only slightly larger than what you would get on the back of your hand. The area is bony so can be quite painful, but tattoo artists can usually get a medium-sized leg tattoo done in one or two sessions. The cost of a leg tattoo is usually between $100 and $200.

Ankle Tattoo

One of the cheapest tattoos you can get is an ankle tattoo. Ankle tattoo does not require much effort and usually costs between $50 and $300, depending on the size, design and color of course. Keep in mind, though, that ankle tattoos tend to hurt a lot due to protruding bones, thin skin, and a few nerve endings. But, if you can get over the pain, you can save some money with a knee brace.

Finger Tattoos

A tiny toe tattoo - whether it's a smiley face on the ball of your big toe or a mandala-style design under each nail bed - won't cost a lot of time or money. Like small tattoos on the face and fingers, a miniature toe tattoo usually costs between $40 and $100.

Rib / side tattoo

It hurts to get a tattoo on the rib or side; we thought you should know this before the price.

Rib tattoo all over the body

A tattoo that covers the entire chest on one side of the body is not only painful, but also expensive. You're looking at an amount between $1,000 and $2,000 if it's highly detailed and intricately colored. For simpler tattoos, the cost will be less.

Medium Rib Tattoo

You may have to pay between $600 and $1,000 for a medium-sized rib tattoo. The price does go up when you consider detailing and coloring, so expect to add up to $500 if the design is unique and requires extra skill.

Small rib tattoo

A small 2-5 inch tattoo will cost a lot less than a medium or full size rib tattoo. You are looking for between $250 and $500 depending on the exact size and complexity of the tattoo design.

Leg Tattoos

Leg tattoos are popular with both men and women. The prices below are based on a large tattoo that covers most of your leg (either front or back), so if you want a smaller tattoo use the shoulder and forearm price guide above - it's the same for legs!

Thigh Tattoos

The thigh is a great place for a tattoo. The flesh here is quite thick and oily, so it shouldn't hurt too much. This allows the tattoo artist to complete a large amount of work in one session, which reduces costs. The average thigh tattoo costs between $500 and $1,000.

Shin tattoos

The lower leg can be quite bony, especially over the lower leg. This often results in more sessions, especially if the tattoo also covers the ankle. So, the average cost of a full calf tattoo is between $500 and $1,200. If you want a leg sleeve, it will cost even more.

5 tips to help you find the right tattoo price

In addition to the prices listed above, you will also need to tip your tattoo artist. Thus, it makes sense to find the best price for your ink. Here are 5 tips to help you do just that.

1. Do your research

ask around; talk to your friend and family and get some recommendations. See if they are satisfied with their tattoos in terms of quality and price.

2. Find affordable but qualified artists

Talk to tattoo artists who are new to the game; most beginner tattoo artists tend to give discounts to gain experience. However, check out their work and see if they give you a good tattoo.

3. Negotiate a flat rate

Look for a tattoo artist who will offer you a flat rate and will not charge you for every hour of the session.

4. Get used to the pain!

Try getting all the tattoos at once if you can handle the pain, of course. Getting tattoos in bulk can save you money, as tattoo parlors tend to offer discounts on such occasions.

5. Ask for a discount

Negotiate the price of the tattoo with the master. If you are getting a simple tattoo or the first tattoo of your life, try to use it to your advantage and ask for a small discount.

Ultimately, if you want to get an amazing tattoo, you must understand that it will cost you a lot of money. Since this is something that will stay on your body forever, don't gamble or try to save up for a tattoo. Talk to a tattoo artist, find out how much it can cost you and start saving!

Tattoo removal prices

If one day you start to regret your tattoo, then don't panic. You have several options. The first is to cover up your tattoo with another tattoo - there are tattoo artists who specialize in covering up and they usually charge a little more than the prices listed above. You are looking for $10-$100 more than the original cost of the tattoo (plus inflation if it was a long time ago).

Another option is to remove the tattoo with a laser. It costs at least $7,000. It takes several sessions to remove a tattoo, each costing between $500 and $1,000 each. If you have tattoo ink that is difficult to remove, or just a very large tattoo that you want to erase, it will cost even more and take even longer. You could be looking at a total cost of $15,000.

F.A.Q.

What are the starting prices for regular tattoos?

Every tattoo parlor has a fixed price per tattoo. Starting prices depend on the tattoo parlor and the quality of their offer. So in that sense, you can pay anywhere from $50 to $150 as a starting price for simple tattoos. The price, of course, depends on the size and location of the tattoo, as well as the detailing.

However, you can expect a lower initial rate as the price also depends on the tattoo artist. But the more experienced the tattoo artist, the higher the starting price. You can also expect some tattoo artists to charge you by the hour.

What are the starting prices for simple tattoos?

When it comes to simple and small tattoos (like a simple outline), the starting price ranges from $60 to $100. The price is for small tattoos with simple outlines that only include black and maybe some shades or a few details. For example, for a starting price, you can get a heart tattoo, a star tattoo, a small "name" or "word" tattoo, etc.

What are the most expensive tattoos?

Some of the most expensive and time-consuming tattoos include the so-called "sleeve tattoos". These tattoos are called "full back", "full leg" or "full arm", obviously, depending on the part of the body that they should occupy. These tattoos can take up to several months to create, and if they include color and shade, they can even increase in price. Of course, keep in mind that the final cost of a full sleeve tattoo requires a tip for the tattoo artist, which is usually between 15% and 30% of the final cost. But the most expensive tattoo you can get is a full body tattoo. The price for such an undertaking can be in excess of $100,000, not including tips for the tattoo artists themselves.

What is the starting price of letter tattoos?

If you've been wondering if a letter tattoo will cost you less than a regular tattoo, then keep that in mind; one short word tattoo will cost you between $50 and $200, depending on the size of the letters, as well as the color and overall design. A letter tattoo usually does not pay for the letter, but the price increases as the size of the tattoo or word increases.

How much does a small tattoo cost?

A small tattoo 2 inches or smaller can cost between $50 and $100. It really depends on the complexity of the design. No matter how big or small your tattoo is, the tattoo artist still needs to set up their workspace, use fresh needles, sterilize the workspace, etc. This is why costs rarely drop below $40-$50.

How much does a tattoo sleeve cost?

According to our research, a full sleeve tattoo costs up to $7,000. If you have a simple design, only 1 ink color, or want half sleeve, then the cost may be lower.