Tattoo Price Calculator
Estimate tattoo cost from size, style, color, placement, and artist hourly rate. Includes shop minimum, sessions, and a 20% tip.
How to use this tattoo price calculator
Tattoo pricing is almost always hourly plus a shop minimum. Size sets a base hour count; realism, portraits, and full color take longer; ribs, neck, and hands are slower because of pain, swelling, and detail. This tattoo price calculator combines those factors so you can budget before a consult.
Quoted prices vary by city and artist demand—$150–$250/hr is a common U.S. custom range, with celebrity artists far above that. The result is an estimate for conversation, not a shop quote. Always confirm hours, deposits, touch-up policy, and aftercare with the studio.
Formula
Worked example
A medium traditional black tattoo on the forearm at $175/hr is about 4 hours → $700, or $840 with a 20% tip. Ribs or realism add time; tiny flash is often the shop minimum.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does a tattoo cost?
Small pieces often land on the shop minimum ($80–$150). Custom work is usually $120–$250 per hour in the U.S., so a medium tattoo is often $400–$900 before tip.
How do artists price tattoos?
Most custom artists charge hourly. Flash and mini tattoos may be a flat rate. Large projects are booked in sessions of a few hours each.
Do you tip a tattoo artist?
Yes, 15–20% is customary in the U.S. when you are happy with the work, similar to other personal services. Some people round up to the next hundred.
Why are rib and neck tattoos more expensive?
They are harder to sit, slower to tattoo, and often need more sessions. This calculator applies a placement multiplier for that extra time.
Is color more than black and grey?
Usually. Color packing, blending, and extra passes add hours, which this estimate reflects with a color factor.
Results are estimates for informational purposes and are not financial, legal, or professional advice. Last reviewed 2026-08-20.