Quick answer: Most tattoos are priced by the hour or by the piece. In the US, a small tattoo usually costs $80 to $400, a palm-sized piece $250 to $800, a half sleeve $1,200 to $4,000 and a full sleeve $2,400 to $8,000 or more. Shop minimums are often $80 to $100. Color, realism and tricky spots such as ribs or hands take longer and cost more. This calculator gives a range from typical shop rates, not a quote.
How to use it
- 1
Choose the size
From tiny (under 5 cm) to full sleeve or full back. Size decides the hours more than anything else.
- 2
Add style, ink and placement
Realism, color and tricky spots like ribs, hands and neck add time.
- 3
Pick artist and country
Rates differ a lot by experience and country. The range updates instantly.
How tattoo artists set their prices
Most shops charge either an hourly rate or a flat price per piece. Hourly rates for experienced artists are commonly about $120 to $200 in the US, £90 to £150 in the UK and €90 to €150 in the eurozone; in-demand artists charge more, apprentices less. Small tattoos are usually charged a shop minimum, because setting up and cleaning take the same time whatever the size.
Large work such as sleeves and back pieces is split into sessions of 3 to 6 hours, often weeks apart so the skin can heal. Many artists also ask for a deposit of $50 to $200 to book, which is taken off the final price.
Ways to keep the cost down
Bring a clear reference so less time is spent on drawing. Choose black and grey instead of full color, and simpler linework instead of realism. Combining several small ideas into one session also saves paying the minimum several times.
Do not choose an artist on price alone: a cheap tattoo that needs a cover-up later costs far more.
Know what you want before the consultation
A clear design saves drawing time. The AI tattoo generator draws 4 designs from your idea in about 20 seconds, and you can try them on a photo of your body. Free with Google sign-in.
Design my tattooFrequently asked questions
How much does a small tattoo cost?+
In the US, usually $80 to $400 depending on detail, with most shops charging a minimum of $80 to $100 even for the tiniest piece.
How much is a full sleeve?+
A full sleeve typically takes 20 to 40 hours or more. At US shop rates that is roughly $2,400 to $8,000+, spread over several sessions.
Should I tip my tattoo artist?+
In the US and Canada a tip of 15 to 20 percent is customary. In the UK, Europe and Australia tipping is appreciated but less expected.
Is this a real quote?+
No. It is an estimate from typical published shop rates. Prices vary by city, shop and artist, so ask your artist for a quote.