Tattoo Cost Calculator — Estimated Price Range
Quick answer: Enter approximate size in inches, pick complexity, enter the artist's hourly rate. Get total with tip.
Estimate the cost of a tattoo based on size, complexity, and your artist's hourly rate. Real prices vary by location, artist demand, and shop policies — this gives you a realistic ballpark before you walk in for a consultation.
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Last reviewed: April 2026Report an error
Diameter of the tattoo footprint.
Typical $100-$300 in the US.
Estimated Total
$792
Estimated 4.4 hours at $150/hr. Cost: $660. Tip (20%): $132. Total: $792.
Estimated Hours
4.4 hr
Tattoo Cost
$660
Tip
$132
Total
$792
Estimates only — actual prices vary widely by artist, shop, and location. Always confirm with a consultation.
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How to Use This Tattoo Cost Calculator
- 1Enter the approximate diameter of the tattoo in inches.
- 2Pick the complexity level.
- 3Enter the artist's hourly rate (typical $100-$300 in the US).
- 4Enter the shop minimum (typical $80-$150).
- 5Optionally adjust tip %.
- 6Read the estimated total.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Hourly rates depend on artist demand and location. A walk-in artist in a small town might be $80/hr; a famous artist in NYC or LA can charge $400+/hr with months-long waitlists.
- Yes — setup costs are similar regardless of size. Disinfecting the station, opening new needles and ink — the artist still spends time on linework. Minimums protect against ultra-low-margin work.
- 15-25% is standard, similar to restaurants. For long sessions or exceptional work, 20%+ is appropriate. Tip in cash if possible.
- For larger pieces, yes. Most artists cap sessions at 4-6 hours. Half- and full-sleeve work typically requires 3-10 sessions over months.
- You pay for skill, consistency, and waitlist demand. A junior artist might give you a beautiful $200 piece with more risk of inconsistent linework or healing issues. Senior artists are charging for not screwing up.
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