Tattoos & Costs
When it comes to body art, receiving a tattoo is about as permanent as it gets. For this very reason, you want to make sure that you spend as much time as possible preparing prior to attending your appointment. One thing that can be overlooked when it comes to tattoos is the cost. The total cost may vary depending on the location of your tattoo and the level of expertise the artist has. However, there are other factors that come into play in regard to cost. If you are asking “How much does a tattoo cost?”, you may need to do a bit of research, so you can stick to your budget if any.
What are the basics?
Typically speaking, most tattoo shops will have a minimum cost for their tattoos. This is to make sure that all artists are paid fairly for the time they put into their work. You can plan on spending anywhere between $50-$200 if you are looking for something simple and small such as a heart. Again, location also plays a role in the price.
Tattoo artists can also charge more depending on the number of years they have been tattooing as well as the number of clients they have. Most shops in the metro area of New York City charge a minimum of $150. Detail, size, placement, and the time it will take to complete the tattoo are all factors in determining price.
If you are looking for a full sleeve or a full back piece, you should be aware that these pieces take the longest and are probably the most expensive. These tattoos can take anywhere between two and three months to complete.
Every tattoo shop will charge a minimum for their tattoos. But also some will charge a deposit to hold your appointment. This will then be applied to the final cost of your tattoo.
Prices for Each Type of Tattoo
Full Back
Since this tattoo typically covers your entire back from the bottom of your neck to your waist, you are looking at a price range of $2,500-$5,000 just for the outlining. You may be charged another $200 for the color fill. You are looking at roughly 40-55 hours of total work.
Sleeve
Full-sleeve tattoos will generally range anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000 just for the outline. For full color, you may pay up to $6,000. This type of tattoo consists of full detail and colors, so it may require a number of sessions.
Chest
This type of tattoo can take anywhere between 6-10 hours to complete and can cost between $600-$2,000. However, the final cost will depend on the size, shading, and color.
Forearm
For a forearm tattoo, you can expect to pay anywhere between $250 to $1,300 depending on the design, color, and size. Full color will always cost more while simple lettering and outlines will be cheaper.
Shoulder
This is one of the most popular locations for a tattoo and can cost between $800 and $850.
Full Body
If you are committed to tattoos and looking for a full-body tattoo from your neck to your toes, you can count on spending at least $100,000.
Tiny Tattoos
Tiny tattoos can be a small cross or heart, or other symbol and will probably cost you between $50 and $150.
No matter what type of tattoo you are seeking, be prepared before you schedule your appointment. Being prepared can make all the difference between loving your new tattoos and having buyers’ remorse.
