How much do tattoos cost in Australia?

A tattoo can be a deeply personal expression, a memory, or a meaningful milestone etched forever on your skin. But before you take the plunge, you should first know how much do tattoos cost and what affects their price, especially since tattoo prices vary widely based on size, design, and the artist’s reputation. 

The good news? By understanding the factors influencing tattoo pricing, you can confidently budget for your next ink. The average cost of tattoos ranges from $120 to $1,800, but this guide will dive deeper to give you a reliable tattoo prices chart in Australia. We’ll break down what you can expect and how to prepare for your tattoo journey.

What is the average cost of a tattoo in Australia?

The average cost of a tattoo in Australia depends largely on size, complexity, and the artist’s expertise. 

Small tattoos, often minimalist designs or simple linework, typically cost $120 to $150. Medium tattoos, such as a quarter sleeve or part of the chest, range from $700 to $900. Meanwhile, larger tattoos, like full sleeves or back pieces, start at $1,200 and often require multiple sessions or full-day packages that can go up to $1,800 or more.

What factors affect the costs of getting a tattoo?

The Australian tattoo industry has grown into a $400.1 million market over the past few years, driven largely by the demand for custom designs. Therefore, figuring out how much a tattoo costs is now not as easy as before. The location of the studio and tattoo placement can make a noticeable difference in the estimated price. Let’s take a closer look at the key factors shaping tattoo costs today.

Studio location

Inside a modern tattoo studio. (Source: iStock)

Cities like Sydney and Melbourne tend to have higher tattoo prices due to living costs and demand for skilled artists. Meanwhile, regional areas like Newcastle or Ipswich often offer more affordable options. Here’s a breakdown of average tattoo costs across major Australian cities:

* Considering full pricing of small to large tattoos

In major cities, studios cover substantial overhead expenses, particularly rent, leading to higher service costs. Moreover, these metropolitan studios typically employ highly skilled artists who charge premium hourly rates. On the other hand, smaller towns may have fewer high-profile artists and, in turn, can offer competitive pricing.

You can also consider mobile tattoo artists as an option. They travel to clients, sometimes charging lower rates due to minimal overheads, but you also have to think about their travel costs. When working with a tattoo artist, make sure that they meet hygiene standards and hold the required certifications to avoid potential risks.

Tattoo artist’s skill level and experience

An artist’s skill level and experience directly affect how much they earn. Junior artists, often in training or early in their careers, charge around $85 to $150 per hour, making them a more affordable option for simple designs. Standard artists, with 2 to 5 years of experience, charge $150 to $180 per hour and can handle designs with moderate complexity.

Expert artists with years of experience who have established their reputations can charge $200 to $300 or more per hour for niche styles like photorealism or surrealist designs. 

Beyond traditional machine tattooing, hand poke or stick-and-poke tattooing is also a technique people seek, especially for minimalist designs. Due to the time-intensive and manual nature of this process, hand poke can sometimes be pricier. 

Size and placement of the tattoo

Woman receiving a sleeve tattoo in a tattoo studio. (Source: iStock)

The size of your tattoo is a major factor in its cost. How much a small tattoo costs depends on how tiny the design is, which could be about 2x2 cm to 5x10 cm. Typically, tattoos in these sizes range from $120 to $200, which is often the studio’s minimum fee. Exactly how much a little tattoo costs depends on its simplicity and detail, but it usually falls within that price range.

Medium-sized tattoos are more detailed and take longer to complete. For instance, a forearm tattoo costs $120 to $700+. 

There are also larger designs to consider. A sleeve tattoo costs between $1,200 and $2,000 or more. While, half-sleeve tattoos cost $700 to $900, depending on the style and colours.

Placement also significantly affects pricing. Tattoos on areas like the ribs or chest ($300 to $2,000+) are expensive due to their curvature and sensitivity. Tattoos on bony or uneven areas, such as hands, fingers, and feet, also cost more ($150 to $600) because they’re harder to work on and fade faster. 

Complexity of the design

Simple designs, such as minimalist line art or small geometric patterns, cost $120 to $200 and can often be completed in under an hour. Slightly complex designs, like black-and-grey portraits or medium-sized floral patterns, range from $700 to $1,500 and typically require 3 to 6 hours of work.

Highly detailed tattoos are at the top end of tattoos and prices, costing $1,500 to $3,000 or more. These include styles like photorealism, Japanese backpieces, or mandalas, which demand multiple sessions of 6–8 hours each. The more elaborate the design, the more it requires an artist of a higher calibre, which explains the higher cost.

Ink requirements

The type of ink used in your tattoo matters too. Black and grey tattoos, priced at $150 to $200 per hour, are more affordable because they require fewer materials and simpler shading techniques. Colour tattoos, on the other hand, cost $200 to $250 per hour due to the layering and blending needed to achieve the desired effects.

Specialised inks, like UV or glow-in-the-dark pigments, can add 20–30% to the overall price. Eco-friendly or vegan inks are also gaining popularity but typically increase costs by 5–10% due to sustainable production. 

If you’re considering temporary options, getting a henna tattoo is a cheaper route, but take note that the application would be different.

Time required to complete the design

Male tattoo artist inking a design on a client's arm. (Source: iStock)

The time it takes to complete the design is another important factor influencing the cost of a tattoo, which is largely based on the other factors as well. 

For starters, hourly rates depend on the artist’s skill level, but more complicated or larger designs naturally take longer, so they can also increase the overall cost. An example is a small tattoo that might only take 1 to 2 hours and cost $120 to $300, while medium tattoos take 3 to 6 hours and cost $600 to $1,200. Large tattoos like full sleeves often need multiple sessions of 6 to 8 hours each, so they can be $1,200 to $3,000 or more in total.

The studio’s location and artist experience also affect how long a tattoo takes. Artists in major cities with higher living costs tend to charge more for their time. Designs on challenging areas, like ribs or hands, require extra precision and patience so they can add to both the time and cost.

Additional considerations

There are also extra costs to think about beyond the initial design. Aftercare products like tattoo healing creams ($10 to $30) and full aftercare kits ($15 to $50) are essential to ensure proper healing and vibrancy of the tattoo. Touch-ups ($50 to $200) may also be needed if the tattoo fades or heals unevenly after the initial free period offered by some studios.

Cancellation policies can affect your budget, too. Studios typically require a deposit of $50 to $100, which may be forfeited if you cancel with less than 24–48 hours’ notice. Some studios allow rescheduling, but last-minute cancellations often result in losing your deposit entirely.

Studios may also provide additional services, such as ear piercings ($40 to $140) or cosmetic tattoos like lip blush or eyeliner ($350 to $800). The latter often cost more because they require stricter safety measures and specialised expertise. These additional precautions, including advanced certifications and enhanced hygiene protocols, are reflected in the overall price.

For more complex needs, like laser tattoo removal, expect to pay $100 to $250 per session based on the size and ink colour. 

How to budget when getting a tattoo in 2025

Woman budgeting for a tattoo. (Source: iStock)

Proper planning ensures you know how much are tattoos for your design and prevents financial surprises during your tattoo journey. Here’s how to get started:

• Research tattoo artists and studios by looking for portfolios that match your style, whether it’s realism, fine line, or traditional. 

• Understand deposit requirements. These deposits are usually non-refundable, so include them in your upfront budget.

• Plan for size and complexity. Small tattoos cost less and large or full-day sessions will certainly be above-average pricing.

• Budget for touch-ups. These are often free within 4–8 weeks but may cost more afterwards, especially for elaborate designs.

• Save for quality and avoid compromising on an experienced artist, as poorly done tattoos can lead to expensive corrections or removal.

Tips for choosing the right tattoo artist

Professional tattoo artist working on a forearm tattoo. (Source: iStock)

Choosing a skilled and reputable tattoo artist ensures a safe experience and a design you’ll love for years. Here’s how to find the perfect match:

• Check their portfolio and style compatibility. Review their online gallery or Instagram to confirm they specialise in your desired style.

• Read reviews and ask for recommendations. Search for them online and see what others have to say about their experience during the session. 

• Prioritise safety and hygiene. Visit the studio to ensure it’s clean and professional, with sterile needles, high-quality ink, and clear aftercare instructions.

• Book a consultation. Use this time to discuss your ideas, get a cost estimate, and assess the artist’s communication and professionalism.

• Verify their experience and licensing. Choose an artist with expertise in your preferred style, and ensure they have the necessary certifications and comply with health regulations.

Find a skilled tattoo artist on Airtasker

Getting a tattoo is a big decision, and finding the right tattoo artist is just as important as the design itself. Whether you’re looking for a temporary tattoo artist for a unique event or a professional designer for the tattoo of your dreams, Airtasker connects you with talented professionals who match your style and budget.

Take the stress out of searching by posting your task today. Receive quotes from skilled artists near you in the comfort of your home and find someone who fits your needs effortlessly.