Tattoo Cost Calculator

Estimate the cost of a tattoo.

Estimated hours

hrs

Artist hourly rate

$/hr

Shop minimum(optional)

Results update as you type.

Estimated cost

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How it works

Tattoo pricing can be confusing, and this calculator gives a ballpark estimate. You enter the estimated hours the piece will take, the artist's hourly rate, and the shop's minimum charge, and it returns the estimated cost. Most experienced tattoo artists charge by the hour, so the main cost is hours times the rate, but shops also have a minimum charge — often $50 to $150 — for very small or quick tattoos, since setup, supplies, and time have a baseline cost. The final price is whichever is higher. Hourly rates vary widely by artist skill and reputation, location, and demand, commonly ranging from around $100 to $250 per hour, with sought-after artists charging more. The number of hours depends on the tattoo's size, detail, color versus black-and-gray, placement, and the artist's speed — a small simple piece might take under an hour, while a large detailed sleeve can require many sessions totaling dozens of hours. Some artists price small flash tattoos at a flat rate instead of hourly. This estimate covers the tattoo itself; remember to budget a tip, typically 15 to 20 percent, which is customary. Always consult the artist for an accurate quote, as they assess the specific design. Enter the hours, hourly rate, and shop minimum to estimate the cost.

Formula

Cost = greater of (hours × hourly rate) or the shop minimum

Most tattoo artists charge by the hour, so the base cost is the estimated hours times the hourly rate. Shops also set a minimum charge for very small pieces, so the final cost is whichever is greater — the hourly total or the shop minimum.

Source:Tattoo pricing norms

We review all our tools from time to time to ensure accuracy.

Worked example

Estimated hours:3Artist hourly rate:150Shop minimum:100

3 hrs × $150 = $450, which exceeds the $100 minimum, so about $450.

How to use this calculator

1
Enter your values
Enter estimated hours and artist hourly rate.
2
Adjust the options
Adjust shop minimum if they apply — sensible defaults are already set.
3
Read your result
Estimated cost updates instantly as you type — no button to press.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a tattoo cost?

Most artists charge by the hour, so cost is the hours times the hourly rate, subject to a shop minimum for small pieces. A 3-hour tattoo at $150 per hour is about $450. Rates commonly run $100 to $250 per hour depending on the artist and location, plus a customary tip on top.

What is a shop minimum?

A shop minimum is the lowest amount a studio will charge for any tattoo, often $50 to $150, regardless of how small or quick it is. It covers the fixed costs of setup, sterile supplies, and the artist's time. Even a tiny tattoo costs at least the minimum, which is why very small pieces aren't proportionally cheap.

What affects how many hours a tattoo takes?

The size, level of detail, use of color versus black-and-gray, body placement, and the artist's working speed all affect the time. A small, simple design may take under an hour, while a large, detailed piece like a full sleeve can span many hours across multiple sessions. The artist can estimate the hours after seeing your design.

Should I tip my tattoo artist?

Yes, tipping is customary in the tattoo industry, typically 15 to 20 percent of the total, and more for exceptional work. Tattooing is skilled, physically demanding work, and a tip is expected on top of the quoted price. Budget for it when planning your tattoo so the tip doesn't come as a surprise.

Why does this estimate differ from my quote?

This is a ballpark based on hours and rate, but artists quote based on the specific design's complexity, size, placement, and their own pricing, which may be flat-rate for small pieces or custom for large ones. Colors, touch-ups, and revisions can also affect price. Always get a quote from your artist for the accurate cost.