Answering the question of “how much a tattoo costs” is akin to answering “how long does it take for your tattoo to heal”. In a nutshell, the answers are all over the place and there are more variables that can even be spelled out sufficiently in this space.
That being said, there are some generally accepted price ranges and factors to use as a reference when trying to determine how much a tattoo will cost.
The range in tattoo prices stems from many different variables such as:
- Size of the tattoo
- Location of the tattoo
- Where you live
- Experience and reputation of the tattoo artist
- Type of equipment and ink that is used
- How long the tattoo takes to complete
Tattoos are ordinarily priced out by size—either small, medium or large—but there are also those tiny ones that are under 2” and are of course also the least expensive. 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.
Tattoo artists charge typically charge between $120 to $150 per hour, and the pricing depends on how long the tattoo will take to complete.
A larger or more intricate tattoo could run you a minimum of $500 for a sleeve size and as high as $4,000 for areas like the back or chest. Any kind of custom tattoo is likely going to be upwards of $1,000. If you’re considering a bodysuit, then start saving your money or consider a loan with a 5 year payment plan, because this route could easily cost you upwards of $50,000 or even over $100,000 for a full bodysuit, which could take a year or more to complete.
In addition to the size and type of design you choose, the color will also influence the final cost. Full color tattoos are customarily priced at twice the black or grey designs.
Though the pricing spectrum is pretty wide, the average range nationally spans from $150 to $450 for most tattoos. Truth be told, tattoo pricing is not much different than any other product or service—you get what you pay for. If you choose a cheap tattoo, chances are, it’s not the best quality and it may not look the way you envisioned.
Since a tattoo is a pretty big commitment to make, it’s worth taking the time to think it through, do your research, talk to people you know who have already got one, and have the details clear in your mind before scheduling an appointment. Choose your design, location, size, color, and go talk it out for an estimate with a few tattoo artists you are considering.
Think of your tattoo as an investment, kind of like purchasing a piece of artwork or fine jewelry. With this mindset, you won’t regret spending the money for the best you can afford, knowing that you’ve got something that you will truly enjoy for the long run.
About the author: Yaffa Baslaw (@yadeinu) is a Freelance Writer with over a decade of experience copywriting and blogging compelling content. She has written for more than 20 companies in the fields of healthcare, skincare, and retail.
FAQs
Hip/Thigh. A standard-size hip or thigh tattoo (about 12 inches in length) will run you about $500 for outline only, or anywhere from $1500 to $2000 for full color.
How big is a $500 tattoo? ›
Hip/Thigh. A standard-size hip or thigh tattoo (about 12 inches in length) will run you about $500 for outline only, or anywhere from $1500 to $2000 for full color.
How much should tattoos cost by size? ›
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.
How much is a 1 hour tattoo? ›
✴ Hourly Rates
Many tattoo artists charge an hourly rate, ranging from $50 to $300 per hour or more, depending on their skill level and reputation.
How big is a $300 tattoo? ›
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.
Is $1000 normal for a tattoo? ›
A larger or more intricate tattoo could run you a minimum of $500 for a sleeve size and as high as $4,000 for areas like the back or chest. Any kind of custom tattoo is likely going to be upwards of $1,000.
How big is a 5 hour tattoo? ›
Tattoo Size Chart
| Size | Hours | Best Placement |
|---|
| 2-3 inches | 2-5 | Ankle, calf, wrist, upper arm |
| 3-4 inches | 4-5 | Lower arm, neck, chest |
| 4-5 inches | 5-8 | Thigh, lower back, shoulders |
| 5-7 inches | 8-11 | Upper back, half-sleeves |
5 more rowsMay 12, 2022
You might feel stinging or burning when the artist outlines or details your design. If you're getting a bony spot inked, you might feel a vibrating sensation. The most common feeling, however, is a low-grade pain that's moderate enough for you to be distracted from by talking, watching TV, or listening to music.
Is $100 an hour a lot for a tattoo? ›
Tattoo artists can charge a significant hourly rate, with most charging at least $100 per hour, and well-known artists can command substantially more.
Do you tip a tattoo artist? ›
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.
Tattoo tipping rates
But as a rule of thumb, a 15-20% tip is usually a good place to start. So, if you spent a total of $200 on a tattoo, tipping anywhere from $30 to $40 shows your artist that you appreciate their handiwork.
What does a 50 dollar tattoo look like? ›
$50 tattoos are approximately one inch by one inch in black ink on arms or legs.
Is $200 for a tattoo expensive? ›
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.
How big of a tattoo can I get for $250? ›
AVERAGE TATTOO COSTS BY PLACEMENT
| LOCATION + TYPE | SIZE | AVERAGE COST |
|---|
| Hand | Small-Medium | $100 - $250 |
| Wrist | Small-Medium | $50 - $200 |
| Forearm | Small-Large | $200 - $1,250 |
| Bicep | Small-Large | $150 - $450 |
26 more rowsJan 29, 2022
“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.
How much does a 3x3 tattoo cost? ›
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.
How big is a $1,500 tattoo? ›
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.
