TattooMaps
Complete Pricing Guide

Tattoo Pricing Guide

Understand tattoo costs, factors affecting pricing, and get accurate estimates for your next tattoo. Make informed decisions with our comprehensive pricing breakdown.

Price Calculator

Get an instant estimate for your tattoo based on size, style, and complexity

Tattoo Details
Adjust these factors to get your price estimate
1" (Small)12" (Large)
Price Estimate
Based on your specifications
$120 - $195

Estimated Total Cost

$150

Per Hour

1h

Est. Time

Base Rate:$150
Size Factor:×1
Style Factor:×1
Total Estimate:$150

Estimate Only

Final prices may vary based on artist, location, and specific design requirements.

Pricing Tiers

Understanding the different price ranges in the tattoo industry

Budget
$
$80 - $150 per hour
$80-150/hour
  • Apprentice or newer artists
  • Simple designs and flash work
  • Basic traditional styles
  • Smaller tattoos (under 4 inches)
Mid-Range
$$
$150 - $250 per hour
$150-250/hour
  • Experienced artists (3-8 years)
  • Custom designs and consultations
  • Multiple styles and techniques
  • Medium to large pieces
Premium
$$$
$250+ per hour
$250+/hour
  • Master artists and celebrities
  • Highly detailed realism work
  • Award-winning portfolios
  • Exclusive and waitlisted artists

What Affects Tattoo Pricing?

Multiple factors influence the final cost of your tattoo

Style & Complexity

Realistic portraits and detailed work cost more than simple line work or traditional designs.

Fine Line:+20%
Realism:+80%
Traditional:Base Rate

Size & Placement

Larger tattoos and difficult body placements require more time and skill.

Small (1-2"):$100-300
Medium (3-5"):$300-800
Large (6"+):$800+

Artist Experience

Established artists with strong portfolios command higher rates.

Apprentice:$80-120/hr
Experienced:$150-250/hr
Master:$250+/hr

Time Required

Most artists charge by the hour, with minimum session fees.

Minimum:2-3 hours
Average Session:4-6 hours
Large Pieces:Multiple sessions

Location & Demand

Urban areas and high-demand artists typically charge more.

Rural Areas:Lower rates
Major Cities:Higher rates
Celebrity Artists:Premium rates

Additional Costs

Don't forget about consultation fees, touch-ups, and aftercare.

Consultation:$50-150
Design Fee:$100-500
Touch-ups:Often free

Money-Saving Tips

Smart strategies to get quality work within your budget

Research Artists

Look for artists whose style matches your vision. A perfect style match often means better value and results.

Book During Off-Peak

Weekday appointments and off-season bookings may offer better rates and more artist availability.

Consider Flash Work

Pre-designed flash tattoos are typically less expensive than custom work and can still be high quality.

Plan for Multiple Sessions

Large pieces done over multiple sessions allow you to budget over time and ensure the best quality work.