How Much Does A Simple Tattoo Cost?
The Basics – Generally, all tattoo shops will begin at a minimum cost. This is to ensure the artist is compensated fairly for their time. So if you’re looking for something super simple and tiny (like a heart outline) you can plan on spending, generally, $50-$200 (depending on where you live).
Though, McLaughlin explains, “It all really depends on the artist. The longer the artist has been tattooing and the more clientele they have, the more they can charge. ” Most shops in the NYC metro area, she says, have a $150 minimum and it goes up from there.
“The size, placement, the time it will take, and detail of the piece are all factors in pricing,” she explains, adding, “some artists will give you a flat rate for the piece and some charge by the hour. ” It’s important to ask these questions prior to making your appointment.
- In her experience, McLaughlin says that full sleeves and full back pieces, or a full leg sleeve take the longest and are the most labor, time and cost-intensive;
- They are among the most expensive tattoos she’s ever done, and she says, “They can take anywhere from two to three months to finish;
One to two sessions to outline, and then another two to three sessions for shading and color, depending on the client’s pain tolerance. ” Each shop will have a minimum cost—McLaughlin’s charges a floor of $60, though it’s common for shops in larger metro areas to charge $150 or more as minimums.
- “Around that price, the tattoos are super simple black outlines like a heart, a star, or four-leaf clover,” Mclaughlin explains;
- Another financial factor? The deposit;
- Most popular parlors will require a deposit to hold your appointment, which is then applied towards the final cost;
Now that you’ve gotten the basics, here are the general price ranges, broken down by area (keep in mind that you’ll also need to tip your tattoo artist, anywhere from 15-30 percent of the total tattoo cost).
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How much does a small tattoo cost?
Average Cost of A Small Tattoo – Most artists generally charge based on how much work it will take to complete your design. This is why tattoo prices are generally heavily influenced by size. The size of your ink and the complexity of the artwork and coloring will determine how much time is required to complete the job. For example, the a small black and gray tattoo will likely cost $20 to $150 while a small color tattoo can range from $40 to $200. If you already have a design picked out, then it may be worth the time to visit different shops and compare prices. Ultimately, the only way to know how much a small tattoo will cost is to ask the artists you’re considering. .
How much does an ankle tattoo cost?
Calf Tattoo Cost – The cost of a calf tattoo ranges from $350 to $600. Size, shape, detail and coloring will affect the price. Simple or little tattoos can be subject to the shop minimum. Designs that cover the full calf can be quoted at $500 or more. .
How much does it cost to hire a tattoo artist?
Average Tattoo Cost – The average cost for a small tattoo like a heart or cross is $50 to $250. For a medium-sized tattoo like a tribal or portrait, expect to spend between $150 and $450. Hiring a tattoo artist typically costs $120 to $150 per hour , and prices depend on how long it takes. 
For a large tattoo, like a half or full sleeve, prices start at $500 and can go all the way up to $4,000 for a full back or custom tattoo. As a rule of thumb, it’s best not to consider getting a tattoo unless you’re willing to pay at least $100 for it. Keep in mind most tattoo shops require a deposit unless it’s a walk-in session.
| National Average Cost | $250 |
| Minimum Cost | $30 |
| Maximum Cost | $4,000 |
| Average Range | $150 to $450 |
According to Tattoo Master Artist Mr. Peck , average tattoo prices for most customers are around $200 to $300 with a $100 minimum. To get up to 6 hours’ worth of tattoos in one day, expect a tattoo price range of $1,000 and more. Your tattoo cost is an investment in permanent body art that you’ll wear every day.
The last thing you want is a super-cheap tattoo that you might have to pay double the cost of to remove it if you don’t like it later. That’s why the best tattoo artists work thoughtfully to create designs with long-lasting appeal.
This guide will provide general tattoo price ranges only.
How much does a 3×3 tattoo cost?
Tattoo Prices – Average tattoo prices range from $30 to $100 for sizes under 2×2, between $100 and $200 for a 3×3, and around $250 or more for a 4×4 tattoo. Prices depend on where you live, the experience level of the artist, their hourly rates, and if it’s a custom tattoo.
