Planning to get inked? How Much Does It Cost To Get A Tattoo? On tattooat.com, we know that understanding the investment is key to bringing your body art vision to life. This guide breaks down tattoo pricing, exploring factors like size, complexity, and artist experience, so you can budget wisely and find the perfect artist for your dream tattoo. Find inspiration, connect with talented artists, and learn everything you need to know about tattoo costs right here.
1. What Determines the Price of a Tattoo?
The price of a tattoo can vary significantly based on several key factors. Let’s dive into the primary elements that influence the cost of your tattoo: artist’s skill, size, location on the body, and the complexity of the design. Here’s a breakdown to give you a clearer picture:
- Artist Experience: Junior artists generally charge less per hour compared to experienced or professional artists.
- Tattoo Size: Smaller tattoos are naturally less expensive than larger ones.
- Design Complexity: Intricate designs with multiple colors will cost more due to the time and skill required.
- Location on the Body: Areas that are harder to reach or more sensitive can increase the price.
Keep in mind that these rates are for comparison purposes, and many smaller tattoos are priced by the piece rather than hourly.
1.1. How Does the Tattoo Artist’s Skill Level Affect Tattoo Pricing?
One of the most significant factors influencing the cost of a tattoo is the artist’s experience level. Tattoo artists are typically categorized into three levels: junior artists, experienced artists, and pro artists. Here’s a closer look at each category and their corresponding price ranges:
- Junior Artists: These artists are typically in the early stages of their careers, with one to three years of experience. They usually charge between $50 to $130 per hour or $500 to $1000 for a full-day session. Junior artists are a great option if you’re looking for an affordable rate while they build their portfolio.
- Experienced Tattoo Artists: With over five years of experience, these artists have honed their skills and can handle more intricate designs. They generally charge between $150 to $300 per hour or $1200 to $1900 for a full-day session. Experienced artists offer a balance of quality and efficiency, meaning you’ll likely spend less time in the chair and get a high-quality tattoo.
- Pro Tattoo Artists: These artists represent the top tier of the tattoo industry, often with awards and widespread recognition. Their hourly rates start at $300, and a full-day session can range from $2000 to $3500 or more. Pro tattoo artists provide expertise and custom artwork, but they may have longer waiting lists due to high demand.
| Artist Level | Hourly Rate | Full Day Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Junior Artist | $50 – $130 | $500 – $1000 |
| Experienced Artist | $150 – $300 | $1200 – $1900 |
| Pro Artist | $300+ | $2000 – $3500+ |
It’s important to consider the artist’s skill level when budgeting for your tattoo, as it directly impacts the quality and complexity of the design they can execute.
1.2. How Do Tattoo Size and Placement Impact the Cost?
The size of your tattoo is a major determinant of its cost, as larger tattoos require more time and ink. Here’s a general guide to how size impacts pricing:
- Tiny Tattoos (Under 2 inches): These can range from $100 to $200.
- Medium Tattoos (3-6 inches): Expect to pay between $350 and $850.
- Large Tattoos (7-9 inches): Prices typically range from $1000 to $1900.
- XXL/Sleeve Tattoos: These extensive pieces can cost anywhere from $3,500 to $12,000 or more.
The location on your body also affects the price. Some areas, such as the ribs, neck, hands, fingers, and face, are more challenging to tattoo and require greater precision, which increases the overall cost. Easier areas like the arms and legs are generally more affordable. According to research from Portland State University’s Art Department, in July 2025, the increased difficulty of tattooing certain areas stems from factors like thinner skin, more nerve endings, and greater movement, all of which demand more time and expertise from the artist.
A small black tattoo on a person's forearm.
1.3. What Role Does Design Complexity Play in Tattoo Cost?
The complexity of the tattoo design is another critical factor affecting the price. Simpler designs with basic lines and minimal shading will generally cost less than intricate, custom designs with multiple colors.
- Simple Designs: These require less time and are more affordable.
- Detailed, Custom, or Multi-Color Designs: These demand more time, skill, and precision, leading to higher costs.
The level of detail, the number of colors, and any custom elements all contribute to the overall complexity of the design, which in turn influences the final price of the tattoo.
2. Tattoo Pricing Based on Size and Artist Skill Level
When estimating the cost of a tattoo, it’s helpful to consider both the size of the tattoo and the skill level of the artist. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
| Tattoo Size | Junior Artist | Experienced Artist | Pro Artist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiny (Less than 2 inches) | $75 – $100 | $150 – $200 | N/A |
| Small (2-4 inches) | $150 – $300 | $200 – $450 | $400-$1000 |
| Medium (4-6 inches) | $300 – $600 | $400 – $800 | $700 – $1,500 |
| Large (7-12 inches) / Full Day | $500 – $1000 | $900 – $1,900 | $2000 – $3,500 |
| Sleeve/Multiple Sessions | $1500 – $3500+ | $3,500 – $8000+ | $7,500 – $12000+ |
This table provides a general guideline for the cost of tattoos based on size and artist level.
3. Examples of Tattoo Prices in Los Angeles
To provide a better understanding of tattoo pricing, let’s look at some photo examples with estimated prices in Los Angeles. Keep in mind that these prices can vary based on the specific artist and studio. The following examples illustrate the range of costs for tattoos based on sizing, complexity, and placement but may not reflect the quality differences between artists with varying experience levels.
3.1. Small Tattoo Examples
Small tattoos are a popular choice for first-timers or those looking for subtle additions to their body art collection. Here are a few examples:
- Small Script Tattoo (2 inches): A simple word or phrase can range from $100 with a junior artist to $150-$250 with an experienced artist.
A small script tattoo on a woman's wrist, spelling out the word 'Breathe' in cursive font.
- Small Illustrative Tattoo (2.5 x 2 inches): A basic design with minimal shading can cost between $150-$250 with a junior artist and $250-$400 with an experienced artist.
A small illustrative tattoo of a minimalist flower on a person's upper arm.
- Small Realistic Tattoo (3 inches): A more detailed, realistic image can range from $200-$250 with a junior artist, $300-$400 with an experienced artist, and $400-$500 with a pro artist.
A small realistic tattoo of a tiny bird on a person's shoulder.
- Small Color Tattoo (2.5 x 1.5 inches): Adding color to a small tattoo can increase the price, ranging from $250-$350 with a junior artist to $350-$450 with an experienced artist, and $400-$500 with a pro.
A small, colorful tattoo of a butterfly on a person's arm.
3.2. Medium Tattoo Examples
Medium-sized tattoos offer more space for detail and can be a great way to showcase more elaborate designs. Here are a few examples:
- Medium Script Tattoo (3 x 5 inches): A longer quote or phrase can range from $300-$400 with a junior artist, $400-$500 with an experienced artist, and $500-$800 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized script tattoo on a person's back, featuring an inspirational quote in an elegant font.
- Medium Outline Tattoo (3.5 x 4 inches): A simple outline design can cost between $250-$350 with a junior artist, $350-$450 with an experienced artist, and $500-$600 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized outline tattoo of a geometric shape on a person's arm.
- Medium Illustrative Tattoo (3 x 3 inches): A more complex illustration can range from $300-$400 with a junior artist, $400-$500 with an experienced artist, and $600-$800 with a pro artist.
A medium illustrative tattoo of a stylized fox on a person's thigh.
- Medium Realism Tattoo (2 x 4 inches): Realistic designs require more skill and precision, ranging from $300-$400 with a junior artist, $450-$600 with an experienced artist, and $600-$800 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized realism tattoo of an eye on a person's forearm.
- Medium Color Tattoo (2 x 4 inches): Adding color to a medium tattoo can range from $300-$400 with a junior artist, $450-$550 with an experienced artist, and $600-$800 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized color tattoo of a lotus flower on a person's back.
- Medium Traditional Tattoo (4 x 4 inches): Traditional tattoos often feature bold lines and classic designs, ranging from $300-$400 with a junior artist, $400-$550 with an experienced artist, and $600-$800 with a pro artist.
A medium traditional tattoo of an anchor and rope on a person's arm.
- Medium Neo Traditional Tattoo (3.5 x 5 inches): Neo-traditional tattoos blend traditional elements with modern techniques, ranging from $400-$500 with a junior artist, $700-$850 with an experienced artist, and $1000-$1300 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized neo-traditional tattoo of a bird with floral elements on a person's thigh.
- Medium High Detail Color Tattoo (4.5 x 3 inches): Complex designs with intricate details and multiple colors can range from $500-$700 with a junior artist, $700-$950 with an experienced artist, and $1000-$1300 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized, highly detailed color tattoo of a geisha on a person's arm.
- Medium Portrait Tattoo (3 x 4 inches): Portrait tattoos require significant skill and precision, ranging from $300-$400 with a junior artist, $500-$700 with an experienced artist, and $800-$1100 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized portrait tattoo of a person's face on their arm.
- Medium Neck Tattoo (4.5 x 3 inches): Tattoos on difficult areas like the neck can range from $700-$900 with an experienced artist to $900-$1300 with a pro artist due to the complexity of the placement.
A medium-sized neck tattoo of a mandala design on a person's neck.
A medium-sized neck tattoo of a floral design on a person's neck.
- Medium Watercolor Tattoo (5 x 4 inches): Watercolor tattoos, known for their vibrant and fluid designs, can range from $500-$700 with a junior artist, $800-$900 with an experienced artist, and $900-$1300 with a pro artist.
A medium-sized watercolor tattoo of a feather on a person's shoulder.
3.3. Large Tattoo Examples
Large tattoos make a bold statement and often cover a significant portion of the body. Here are a few examples:
- Large Fine Line Tattoo (7 x 3 inches): Delicate and intricate fine line tattoos can range from $500-$600 with a junior artist, $700-$1000 with an experienced artist, and $1000-$1300 with a pro artist.
A large fine line tattoo of floral elements on a person's arm.
- Large Fine Line Tattoo (8 x 4 inches): Similar to the previous example, this larger fine line tattoo can range from $600-$800 with a junior artist, $800-$1000 with an experienced artist, and $1000-$1300 with a pro artist.
A large fine line tattoo of a floral design on a person's back.
- Large Portrait Tattoo (8 x 5 inches): A large portrait tattoo, typically requiring a full day session, can range from $700-$900 with a junior artist, $1200-$1800 with an experienced artist, and $2000-$2500 with a pro artist.
A large portrait tattoo of a person's face on their thigh.
- Large Color Portrait Tattoo (8 x 5 inches): Adding color to a large portrait can increase the cost, ranging from $1500-$1900 with an experienced artist and $2000-$3000 with a pro artist, as junior artists may find this too complicated.
A large, colorful portrait tattoo on a person's shoulder.
- Large Color Tattoo (8 x 5 inches): Similar to the color portrait, this large color tattoo can range from $1200-$1800 with an experienced artist and $2000-$2500 with a pro artist.
A large color tattoo of a dragon on a person's back.
- Large Color Anime Tattoo (8 x 5 inches): Anime tattoos are incredibly popular and can range from $800-$1000 with a junior artist, $1200-$1600 with an experienced artist, and $2000-$2500 with a pro artist.
A large color anime tattoo on a person's arm.
3.4. XL and XXL Tattoo Examples
XL and XXL tattoos are the most extensive and can cover large areas such as the forearm, hand, leg, or even the entire sleeve. Here are some examples:
- XL Forearm + Hand Tattoo (12 x 6 inches): This tattoo, which spans both the forearm and hand, can range from $1200-$1400 with a junior artist, $1500-$2400 with an experienced artist, and $2500-$3500 with a pro artist.
An XL forearm and hand tattoo of a detailed floral design.
- Large Lower Leg Tattoo (8 x 5 inches): This type of tattoo can range from $800 – $1000 with a junior artist, $1200 – $1600 with an experienced artist, and $2000 – $2500 with a pro artist.
A large lower leg tattoo featuring a detailed image of a koi fish.
- Large Floral Tattoo (8 x 5 inches): Often requiring a full day session, this tattoo can range from $700-$900 with a junior artist, $1,200-$1,600 with an experienced artist, and $2,000-$2,500 with a pro artist.
A large floral tattoo covering the back of a person's thigh.
- Large Detailed Hip Tattoo (8 x 5 inches): Requiring a full day session, this tattoo can range from $800-$1,000 with a junior artist, $1,200-$1,600 with an experienced artist, and $2,000-$2,500 with a pro artist.
A large, detailed hip tattoo of a woman with flowing hair and intricate patterns.
- XL Black & Gray Tattoo (12 x 8 inches): This can range from $1,000 – $1,200 with a junior artist, $1,200 – $1,800 with an experienced artist, and $2,000 – $3,500 with a pro artist.
An XL black and gray tattoo featuring a detailed depiction of a skull and roses.
- XL Upper Arm Tattoo (12 x 7 inches): Requiring 1.5 to 2 sessions, this tattoo can range from $1,300 – $1,600 with a junior artist, $1,800 – $2,500 with an experienced artist, and $3,000 – $5,000 with a pro artist.
An XL upper arm tattoo showing a detailed image of a mythical creature with intricate line work.
- XXL Sleeve + Chest Tattoo: These extensive tattoos often require 6-8 sessions and are too complicated for junior artists. Experienced artists may charge $8000-$12,000, while pro artists can range from $12,000-$20,000.
An XXL sleeve and chest tattoo featuring a complex and colorful design of dragons and flowers.
- XXL Outer Arm Sleeve: Requiring 2.5 to 3.5 sessions, these are too complicated for junior artists and can range from $3600 – $6000 with an experienced artist, and $6000 – $8000 with a pro artist.
An XXL outer arm sleeve tattoo featuring a detailed and intricate black and gray design.
- XXL Color Outer Arm Sleeve: Requiring 3-4 sessions, these tattoos are too complicated for junior artists and range from $4500 – $6000 with experienced artists, and $6000 – $9000 with pro artists.
An XXL color outer arm sleeve tattoo showing a vibrant and detailed scene with various characters and elements.
- XXL Color Sleeve Tattoo: Requiring 6-8 sessions, these tattoos are too complicated for junior artists, ranging from $9000 – $12,000 with experienced artists and $12,000 – $20,000 with pro artists.
An XXL color sleeve tattoo featuring a complex and colorful design of dragons and mythical creatures.
- XXL Color Outer Leg Sleeve: Requiring 3-4 sessions, this tattoo is too complicated for junior artists and will range from $4500 – $6000 with an experienced artist and $6000 – $9000 with a pro artist.
An XXL color outer leg sleeve tattoo showcasing a detailed and vibrant underwater scene with marine life.
- XXL B&G Outer Leg Sleeve: Requiring 3-4 sessions, this tattoo is too complicated for junior artists and costs $4500 – $6000 with an experienced artist, and $6000 – $9000 with a pro artist.
An XXL black and gray outer leg sleeve tattoo featuring a detailed and intricate design of skulls and roses.
Remember, these prices are approximate and can vary based on the specifics of your design and the artist you choose.
4. Additional Cost Considerations
Beyond the artist’s hourly rate and the size and complexity of the design, there are a few other potential costs to keep in mind when budgeting for a tattoo:
- Consultation Fees: Some artists may charge a consultation fee for discussing your design ideas and providing a quote. However, this fee is often applied toward the final cost of the tattoo.
- Touch-Ups: While many artists offer free touch-ups within a certain timeframe after the initial tattoo, you may need to pay for touch-ups if they are required later on.
- Aftercare Products: Proper aftercare is crucial for ensuring your tattoo heals correctly. Budget for aftercare products like tattoo balms, moisturizers, and gentle cleansers.
- Tips: It’s customary to tip your tattoo artist, typically around 15-20% of the total cost.
5. How to Save Money on Your Tattoo
If you’re on a tight budget, there are several ways to save money on your tattoo without compromising on quality:
- Consider a Simpler Design: Opting for a less intricate design can significantly reduce the time and cost.
- Choose a Junior Artist: Junior artists often charge lower rates while still providing quality work.
- Get a Smaller Tattoo: The smaller the tattoo, the less it will cost.
- Look for Deals and Promotions: Many tattoo studios offer discounts or promotions, especially during certain times of the year.
- Be Flexible with Placement: Choosing an easier-to-tattoo location can reduce the overall cost.
6. Why Choose Our Studio in Los Angeles?
At tattooat.com, we are dedicated to finding the perfect match for your artistic vision. We collaborate with more than 20 talented artists, enabling us to provide solutions tailored to your specific budget and the tattoo style you desire!
6.1. Benefits of Choosing Our Studio
- Highly Rated: We are a 5-star rated studio with over 330+ reviews.
- Hygiene Standards: We maintain the highest standards of hygiene and customer service.
- Pricing Transparency: Experience transparent pricing without hidden fees.
- Custom Designs: Receive custom designs tailored to your unique style.
