How much do tattoos cost in the US?

You’ve chosen the perfect tattoo design, but you’re still clueless about how much does a tattoo cost. After all, pricing can vary greatly depending on factors like design complexity, artist expertise, and even your location. For first-timers and seasoned collectors alike, knowing the costs upfront can be challenging.

In the US, tattoo prices typically fall between $100 and $5,000, but larger or more detailed designs can cost significantly more. This guide explores everything you need to know about how much do tattoos cost and will break down the factors that impact pricing to help you prepare for your next piece.

What is the average tattoo cost in the US?

The average tattoo costs in the US depend largely on size, complexity, and the artist’s expertise. 

Small tattoos, such as minimalist designs or simple linework, typically cost $100 to $200, depending on the detail and placement. For instance, a 1-inch tattoo’s price may fall between this range, especially for designs on the wrist, ankle, or fingers.

Medium tattoos, like a quarter sleeve or palm-sized designs on the forearm or chest, generally range from $250 to $600. Meanwhile, larger tattoos, such as full sleeves or back pieces, start at $1,000 and often require multiple sessions or full-day packages that can go up to $5,000.

What factors affect the costs of getting a tattoo?

The US tattoo industry is valued at $2.22 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to $4.83 billion by 2032, with an annual growth rate of 10.2%. This rapid growth is driven by the demand for custom designs, fine-line tattoos, and trends like UV-reactive or eco-friendly inks, which often come at premium prices.

But this also means that figuring out how much a tattoo costs is now not as easy as before. Location on the body and even where the studio is based—like New York or a smaller town—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)

As mentioned above, where you get your tattoo can impact how much you’ll pay. Cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco tend to have higher tattoo prices due to living costs and the demand for skilled artists. Meanwhile, regional areas like Austin or Denver often offer more affordable options.

Here’s a breakdown of average tattoo costs across major US 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 $50 to $100 per hour, making them a budget-friendly option for simple designs. Standard artists, with 2 to 5 years of experience, charge $100 to $150 per hour and can handle designs with moderate complexity.

Expert artists with years of experience who have established their reputations can charge anywhere from $150 to $500 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)

Your desired size and tattoo prices are deeply tied to each other. How much a small tattoo costs depends on how tiny the design is and if it’ll fit either your wrist or fingers. Typically, they’ll range from $100 to $200, which is often the studio’s minimum fee.

Medium-sized tattoos are more detailed and take longer to complete. For instance, a forearm tattoo costs $200 to $800. 

There are also larger designs to consider. How much a sleeve tattoo costs can still be variable, but are usually between $1,500 to $5,000. While, half-sleeve tattoos cost $800 to $2,500, depending on the style and colors.

Placement affects pricing significantly as well. Tattoos on areas that are curved and more sensitive can be more expensive. An example is how much a spine tattoo costs ($500 to $10,000) and how much is a back tattoo ($2,000 to $10,000). Tattoos on bony or uneven areas, such as hands, fingers, and feet, also cost more because they’re harder to work on and fade faster.

Complexity of the design

Millennials and Gen Z are driving the tattoo industry, with 41% of individuals under 30 and 46% of those aged 30–49 sporting tattoos. This demographic fuels the demand for unique designs, from minimalist symbols to intricate realism pieces. But it’s important to note that this same intricacy would likely increase your final bill. Here’s a rundown:

Simple designs, such as minimalist line art or small geometric patterns, cost $100 to $300 and can often be completed in under an hour. Slightly complex designs, like black-and-gray portraits or medium-sized floral patterns, range from $400 to $1,200 and typically require 3 to 6 hours of work.

Highly detailed tattoos cost $1,500 to $5,000 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 caliber, which explains the higher cost.

Ink requirements

The type of ink used in your tattoo matters too. Black and grey tattoos, priced at $100 to $200 per hour, are more affordable because they require fewer materials and simpler shading techniques. Color tattoos, on the other hand, cost $150 to $300 per hour due to the layering and blending needed to achieve the desired effects.

Specialized 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 how much to charge for a tattoo design. And it 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 with either a minimalist design or symbol that might only take 30 minutes to 2 hours, so they’ll surely cost less. On the flip side, medium tattoos may take 2 to 6 hours depending on the level of detail and colorwork. While, large tattoos, including full sleeves or back pieces, often take 10 to 40+ hours and are completed over multiple sessions to allow for healing between sittings.

Additional considerations

There are also extra costs to think about beyond the initial design. Aftercare products ($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 ($28 to $150). And for those interested in tattoo cover-ups, expect to pay $150 to $300 per hour based on the size and ink color. This is mostly a popular service since tattoo cover-ups generally cost less than multiple laser removal sessions which may not even be effective in the end.

How to budget when getting a tattoo in 2025

Woman budgeting for a tattoo. (Source: iStock)

Proper planning ensures you know what is the average price of a tattoo with 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 afterward, 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 specialize 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. 

• Prioritize 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

Tattoo pricing can be unpredictable if you’re not familiar with the market trends, especially when factors like design complexity and location come into play. But don’t worry, regardless if you’re a first-timer or not, Airtasker can connect you with experienced tattoo artists who can deliver quality work at a price that fits your budget.

Don’t leave it to chance. Post your task today to find the right artist or professional designer for the tattoo you’ve always wanted. You can even get a temporary tattoo artist for unique events! Airtasker makes planning your next tattoo effortless.