How Much Should A Tattoo Cost? Getting inked is an exciting experience, and understanding the pricing is key. At tattooat.com, we break down tattoo costs, considering factors like size, artist skill, and design complexity, to help you budget for your dream tattoo. Whether you’re in Portland or anywhere in the US, we provide insights into the world of tattoo costs, including custom artwork, hourly rates, and additional fees.
1. What Determines The Price Of A Tattoo?
The price of a tattoo is determined by a few key elements: the tattoo artist’s expertise, the tattoo’s size, where you want it on your body, and how complicated the design is. Think of it like this: the more detailed and skilled the work, the higher the cost.
To give you a better idea, here’s a quick look at the factors that influence tattoo pricing:
- Artist Experience: The more skilled and experienced the artist, the higher the hourly rate.
- Tattoo Size: Bigger tattoos require more time and ink, increasing the cost.
- Design Complexity: Intricate designs with multiple colors and details will cost more than simple, minimalist tattoos.
- Body Placement: Areas that are harder to tattoo or more sensitive, such as ribs, neck, hands, or fingers, may incur additional charges.
2. How Does Tattoo Artist Skill Level Affect Pricing?
The expertise of the tattoo artist significantly influences the final cost of your tattoo. The more experienced and renowned an artist is, the higher their hourly rate will be. Tattoo artists typically fall into three categories: junior artists, experienced artists, and pro or famous artists.
2.1. Junior Artists
Junior artists are those with 1-3 years of experience in the industry.
- Price Range: $50-$130 per hour.
- Why: Junior artists are a great option for those seeking more affordable tattoos. They are still building their portfolios and honing their skills. While their work may be of good quality, they may take longer to complete a tattoo compared to more experienced artists.
2.2. Experienced Tattoo Artists
Experienced tattoo artists typically have 5+ years in the industry.
- Price Range: $150-$300 per hour.
- Why: Experienced artists possess refined skills and can handle intricate designs with precision. They have a proven track record of delivering high-quality tattoos and can complete them in less time than junior artists, resulting in less time spent in the chair and reduced discomfort.
2.3. Pro or Famous Tattoo Artists
Pro or famous tattoo artists represent the top tier of the tattoo industry.
- Price Range: $300+ per hour.
- Why: These artists have often won awards or gained widespread recognition for their exceptional skills and artistry. Their expertise and custom artwork come at a premium price, and they often have long waiting lists due to high demand.
3. What Are Basic Tattoo Costs By Size And Skill Level?
The size of your tattoo plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost. Larger tattoos require more time, ink, and skill, which naturally increases the price.
Here’s a breakdown of basic tattoo costs based on size and the artist’s skill level:
| 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 or 1 Full day(7-12 inches) | $500 – $1000 | $900 – $1,900 | $2000 – $3,500 |
| Sleeve or Multiple Session Tattoo | $1500 – $3500+ | $3,500 – $8000+ | $7,500 – $12000+ |
Keep in mind that these are just estimated prices. The actual cost of your tattoo may vary based on the specific factors mentioned earlier, such as design complexity, body placement, and the artist’s individual pricing structure.
4. How Does Design Complexity And Body Placement Impact Cost?
In addition to artist skill and tattoo size, the complexity of the design and the placement of the tattoo on your body can significantly impact the overall cost.
Here’s how these factors come into play:
- Simple Designs: Tattoos with simple designs, such as basic shapes or outlines, generally require less time and effort to complete, resulting in lower costs.
- Detailed, Custom, or Multi-Color Designs: Intricate designs with fine details, custom artwork, or multiple colors demand more time, skill, and precision from the artist, leading to higher prices.
- Delicate Areas (ribs, neck, hands etc.): Certain areas of the body, such as the ribs, neck, hands, and fingers, are considered more delicate and challenging to tattoo due to their sensitivity, bone proximity, or skin texture. Tattoo artists often charge higher rates for these areas to compensate for the increased difficulty and expertise required.
- Easier Areas (arms, legs): Areas like the arms and legs are generally easier to tattoo due to their larger surface area and less sensitive skin. Tattoos in these locations tend to be more affordable.
The complexity of the tattoo and its placement both affect the price because some spots are tougher to work on or more sensitive, so they need extra skill and care. Also, simple tattoos with just black lines cost less, while detailed or colorful ones take more time and work, increasing the cost.
5. Photo Examples Of Tattoos With Pricing In Los Angeles
To give you a clearer understanding of tattoo pricing in Los Angeles, here are some photo examples of tattoos with estimated costs. Keep in mind that these prices are approximate and may vary depending on the specific artist, studio, and design details.
It’s important to note that while the photos show examples of tattoo sizing, complexity, and placement, they don’t illustrate the differences in quality between tattoos done by junior, experienced, and pro artists.
5.1. Small Script Tattoo
Small script tattoo on a wrist, with a simple and elegant design.
- Size: 2 inches (5cm)
- Junior Artist: $100
- Experienced: $150 – $250
- Pro: N/A
5.2. Small Illustrative Tattoo
Small illustrative tattoo featuring a simple graphic design on an arm.
- Size: 2.5 x 2 inches (7 x 5 cm)
- Junior Artist: $150 – $250
- Experienced: $250 – $400
- Pro: N/A
5.3. Small Realistic Tattoo
Small realistic tattoo of a rose, showcasing fine detail and shading on a forearm.
- Size: 3 inches (7 – 8 cm)
- Junior Artist: $200 – $250
- Experienced: $300 – $400
- Pro: $400 – $500
5.4. Small Color Tattoo
Small colorful tattoo featuring vibrant hues and a whimsical design on an ankle.
- Size: 2.5 x 1.5 inches (6 x 3 cm)
- Junior Artist: $250 – $350
- Experienced: $350 – $450
- Pro: $400 – $500
5.5. Medium Script Tattoo
Medium script tattoo on a back, featuring flowing cursive lettering and elegant placement.
- Size: 3 x 5 inches (7 x 13 cm)
- Junior Artist: $300 – $400
- Experienced: $400 – $500
- Pro: $500 – $800
5.6. Medium Outline Tattoo
Medium outline tattoo of a geometric design, featuring clean lines and minimalist style on a shoulder.
- Size: 3.5 x 4 inches (7 x 10 cm)
- Junior Artist: $250 – $350
- Experienced: $350 – $450
- Pro: $500 – $600
5.7. Medium Illustrative Tattoo
Medium illustrative tattoo of a cartoon character, showcasing playful colors and imaginative details on a thigh.
- Size: 3 x 3 inches (7 x 7cm)
- Junior Artist: $300 – $400
- Experienced: $400 – $500
- Pro: $600 – $800
5.8. Medium Realism Tattoo
Medium realism tattoo of an eye, featuring lifelike detail and intricate shading on a forearm.
- Size: 2 x 4 inches (5 x 10cm)
- Junior Artist: $300 – $400
- Experienced: $450 – $600
- Pro: $600 – $800
5.9. Medium Color Tattoo
Medium colorful tattoo featuring a vibrant floral design on a shoulder.
- Size: 2 x 4 inches (5 x 10cm)
- Junior Artist: $300 – $400
- Experienced: $450 – $550
- Pro: $600 – $800
5.10. Medium Traditional Tattoo
Medium traditional tattoo featuring bold lines and classic imagery on a calf.
- Size: 4 x 4 inches (10 x 10cm)
- Junior Artist: $300 – $400
- Experienced: $400 – $550
- Pro: $600 – $800
5.11. Medium Neo Traditional
Medium neo traditional tattoo featuring intricate linework and a modern twist on classic themes on an arm.
- Size: 3.5 x 5 inches (9 x 12cm)
- Junior Artist: $400 – $500
- Experienced: $700 – $850
- Pro: $1000 – $1300
5.12. Medium High Detail Color
Medium high detail color tattoo featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors on a shoulder.
- Size: 4.5 x 3 inches (11 x 8 cm)
- Junior Artist: $500 – $700
- Experienced: $700 – $950
- Pro: $1000 – $1300
5.13. Medium Portrait Tattoo
Medium portrait tattoo of a face, featuring realistic shading and detail on a forearm.
- Size: 3 x 4 inches (7 x 10cm)
- Junior Artist: $300 – $400
- Experienced: $500 – $700
- Pro: $800 – $1100
5.14. Medium Neck Tattoo
Medium neck tattoo featuring a bold and intricate design on the side of the neck.
- Size: 4.5 x 3 inches (12 x 7cm)
- Junior Artist: Difficult placement
- Experienced: $700 – $900
- Pro: $900 – $1300
5.15. Medium Neck Tattoo
Medium neck tattoo with a detailed pattern extending down the neck.
- Size: 4.5 x 3 inches (12 x 7cm)
- Junior Artist: Difficult placement
- Experienced: $700 – $1000
- Pro: $1000 – $1300
5.16. Medium Water Color
Medium watercolor tattoo featuring soft colors and artistic blending on an arm.
- Size: 5 x 4 inches (13 x 10 cm)
- Junior Artist: $500 – $700
- Experienced: $800 – $900
- Pro: $900 – $1300
5.17. Large Fine Line Tattoo
Large fine line tattoo featuring delicate lines and minimalist design on a back.
- Size: 7 x 3 inches (18 x 8 cm)
- Junior Artist: $500 – $600
- Experienced: $700 – $1000
- Pro: $1000 – $1300
5.18. One Large Fine Line
One large fine line tattoo of a detailed floral design on a thigh.
- Size: 8 x 4 inches (20 x 10 cm)
- Junior Artist: $600 – $800
- Experienced: $800 – $1000
- Pro: $1000 – $1300
5.19. Large Portrait Tattoo
Large portrait tattoo featuring realistic shading and detail on a thigh.
- Size: 8 x 5 inches (20 x 13 cm)
- Sessions: 1 full day
- Junior Artist: $700 – $900
- Experienced: $1200 – $1800
- Pro: $2000 – $2500
5.20. Large Color Portrait
Large color portrait tattoo of a person, featuring vibrant colors and intricate details on a forearm.
- Size: 8 x 5 inches (20 x 13 cm)
- Sessions: 1 full day
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $1500 – $1900
- Pro: $2000 – $3000
5.21. Large Color Tattoo
Large colorful tattoo featuring an intricate animal design on a back.
- Size: 8 x 5 inches (20 x 13 cm)
- Sessions: 1 full day
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $1200 – $1800
- Pro: $2000 – $2500
5.22. Large Color Anime Tattoo
Large color anime tattoo featuring bright colors and dynamic action poses on a calf.
- Size: 8 x 5 inches (20 x 13 cm)
- Sessions: 1 full day
- Junior Artist: $800 – $1000
- Experienced: $1200 – $1600
- Pro: $2000 – $2500
5.23. XL Forearm + Hand Tattoo
XL forearm and hand tattoo featuring intricate patterns and bold designs.
- Size: 12 x 6 inches (30 x 15 cm)
- Sessions: 1 – 1.5
- Junior Artist: $1200 – $1400
- Experienced: $1500 – $2400
- Pro: $2500 – $3500
5.24. Large Lower Leg Tattoo
Large lower leg tattoo with a bold, detailed design covering the calf.
- Size: 8 x 5 inches (20 x 13 cm)
- Sessions: 1 full day
- Junior Artist: $800 – $1000
- Experienced: $1200 – $1600
- Pro: $2000 – $2500
5.25. Large Floral Tattoo
Large floral tattoo featuring an elegant design with intricate details on a shoulder.
- Size: 8 x 5 inches (20 x 13 cm)
- Sessions: 1 full day
- Junior Artist: $700 – $900
- Experienced: $1,200 – $1,600
- Pro: $2,000 – $2,500
5.26. Large Detailed Hip Tattoo
Large detailed hip tattoo with a complex pattern and intricate shading on a hip.
- Size: 8 x 5 inches (20 x 13 cm)
- Sessions: 1 full day
- Junior Artist: $800 – $1,000
- Experienced: $1,200 – $1,600
- Pro: $2,000 – $2,500
5.27. XL Black & Gray Tattoo
XL black and gray tattoo covering a large portion of a body.
- Size: 12 x 8 inches (30 x 20 cm)
- Sessions: 1 – 1.5
- Junior Artist: $1,000 – $1,200
- Experienced: $1,200 – $1,800
- Pro: $2,000 – $3,500
5.28. XL Upper Arm
XL upper arm tattoo with a detailed design extending across the arm.
- Size: 12 x 7 inches (30 x 18 cm)
- Sessions: 1.5 – 2
- Junior Artist: $1,300 – $1,600
- Experienced: $1,800 – $2,500
- Pro: $3,000 – $5,000
5.29. XXL Sleeve + Chest Tattoo
XXL sleeve and chest tattoo covering the arm and chest with intricate patterns.
- Size: XXL
- Sessions: 6 – 8
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $8000 – $12,000
- Pro: $12,000 – $20,000
5.30. XXL Outer Arm Sleeve
XXL outer arm sleeve tattoo featuring a full design covering the arm.
- Size: XXL
- Sessions: 2.5 – 3.5
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $3600 – $6000
- Pro: $6000 – $8000
5.31. XXL Color Outer Arm Sleeve
XXL color outer arm sleeve tattoo with vibrant colors and a detailed design.
- Size: XXL
- Sessions: 3 – 4
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $4500 – $6000
- Pro: $6000 – $9000
5.32. XXL Color Sleeve Tattoo
XXL color sleeve tattoo featuring a full arm design with vivid colors.
- Size: XXL
- Sessions: 6 – 8
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $9000 – $12,000
- Pro: $12,000 – $20,000
5.33. XXL Color Outer Leg Sleeve
XXL color outer leg sleeve tattoo featuring an intricate, full leg design with vibrant colors.
- Size: XXL
- Sessions: 3 – 4
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $4500 – $6000
- Pro: $6000 – $9000
5.34. XXL B&G Outer Leg Sleeve
XXL black and gray outer leg sleeve tattoo with a detailed design covering the entire leg.
- Size: XXL
- Sessions: 3 – 4
- Junior Artist: Too complicated
- Experienced: $4500 – $6000
- Pro: $6000 – $9000
Keep in mind that all prices listed are approximate. The price of each tattoo is determined individually, whether you get a quote online or in person.
6. What is The Hourly Rate Formula?
The hourly rate formula helps estimate the cost of a tattoo based on the artist’s hourly rate, the time required, and any additional fees.
Here’s the breakdown:
Price = (Hourly Rate) × (Time Required) + (Additional Fees for Complexity/Color/Placement)
- Hourly Rate: The artist’s standard charge per hour. This varies based on experience, skill, and demand.
- Time Required: The estimated time it will take to complete the tattoo, including design setup, stenciling, tattooing, and cleanup.
- Additional Fees: Extra charges for complex designs, multiple colors, or difficult placement areas.
This formula provides a transparent way to understand how artists calculate their rates, ensuring no hidden costs.
7. What Are Other Factors Affecting Tattoo Cost?
Beyond size, artist skill, design complexity, and body placement, several other factors can influence the final cost of your tattoo:
- Custom Designs: If you’re opting for a custom-designed tattoo, the artist may charge an additional fee for the design work, especially if it requires extensive consultation and sketching.
- Color vs. Black and Gray: Color tattoos generally cost more than black and gray tattoos due to the additional time, skill, and materials required to apply and blend the different colors.
- Studio Reputation and Location: Tattoo studios in upscale areas or with a strong reputation for quality and hygiene may charge higher prices than smaller, lesser-known studios.
- Aftercare Products: Some tattoo studios include aftercare products, such as specialized lotions or balms, in the overall cost of the tattoo.
- Touch-Ups: Depending on the studio’s policy, touch-up sessions may be included in the initial price or charged separately.
8. How Can You Get A Custom Quote For Your Tattoo?
Getting a custom quote is essential for understanding the exact cost of your desired tattoo. The best way to obtain an accurate estimate is to consult directly with the tattoo artist or studio you’re interested in.
Here’s how to get a custom quote:
- Research and Select an Artist/Studio: Look for artists whose style aligns with your vision and who have a solid reputation.
- Prepare Your Design Ideas: Gather reference images, sketches, or a detailed description of your desired tattoo.
- Contact the Artist/Studio: Reach out via phone, email, or through their website to schedule a consultation or request a quote.
- Provide Detailed Information: Share your design ideas, desired size, placement, and any specific preferences with the artist.
- Ask About Pricing Structure: Inquire about the artist’s hourly rate, minimum charge, and any additional fees for custom designs or complex work.
- Get a Written Quote: Request a written quote that outlines all the costs involved, including the tattoo session, design work, and any aftercare products.
Getting a custom quote ensures that you have a clear understanding of the financial investment required for your tattoo, allowing you to budget accordingly and avoid any surprises.
9. Why Choose Tattooat.Com To Find Your Next Tattoo Artist?
Choosing the right tattoo artist is a crucial decision that can impact the final outcome of your tattoo. Tattooat.com is a platform designed to help you connect with talented and reputable tattoo artists in your area.
Here are some compelling reasons to use Tattooat.com:
- Extensive Artist Directory: Tattooat.com features a comprehensive directory of tattoo artists, making it easy to find artists who specialize in your preferred style.
- Artist Portfolios: Browse through artist portfolios to see examples of their previous work and get a sense of their skill level and artistic style.
- Verified Reviews and Ratings: Read verified reviews and ratings from other clients to gain insights into the artist’s professionalism, hygiene standards, and overall customer satisfaction.
- Easy Communication: Contact artists directly through the platform to discuss your design ideas, request quotes, and schedule consultations.
- Trusted Resource: tattooat.com is a trusted resource for tattoo enthusiasts, providing valuable information, inspiration, and connections within the tattoo community.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tattoo Costs
10.1. What Is The Average Cost Of A Small Tattoo?
The average cost of a small tattoo (under 2 inches) typically ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the artist’s skill level and the complexity of the design.
10.2. How Much Does A Full Sleeve Tattoo Cost?
A full sleeve tattoo can range from $3,500 to $12,000 or more, depending on the artist’s experience, the intricacy of the design, and the number of sessions required.
10.3. Do Tattoo Artists Charge By The Hour Or By The Piece?
Some tattoo artists charge by the hour, while others charge a flat rate per piece. It depends on the artist’s preference and the nature of the tattoo.
10.4. Is It Customary To Tip A Tattoo Artist?
Yes, it’s customary to tip a tattoo artist, just like you would tip a server or hairstylist. A standard tip is 15-20% of the total cost of the tattoo.
10.5. How Can I Lower The Cost Of My Tattoo?
You can lower the cost of your tattoo by choosing a simpler design, opting for a smaller size, selecting a less experienced artist, or getting tattooed in an area that is easier to work on.
10.6. What Is A Shop Minimum For Tattoos?
A shop minimum is the minimum amount a tattoo studio will charge for any tattoo, regardless of size or complexity. This covers the cost of setting up the station and using sterile equipment. Shop minimums typically range from $50 to $100.
10.7. Will A Tattoo’s Placement Affect the Price?
Yes, tattoos on more sensitive or hard-to-reach areas like the ribs, neck, or joints tend to cost more because they require more skill and care to execute.
10.8. Are Color Tattoos More Expensive?
Yes, color tattoos generally cost more than black and gray tattoos due to the added time, skill, and materials required for multiple
