Tattoo prices by size (sample US rates)
Width times height gives square inches. With $100 for the first square inch and $15 for each one after, black and gray:
- 1 x 1 inch (1 sq in): $100, the shop minimum
- 2 x 1 inch (2 sq in): $115
- 2 x 2 inch (4 sq in): $145
- 3 x 2 inch (6 sq in): $175
- 3 x 3 inch (9 sq in): $220
- 4 x 3 inch (12 sq in): $265
- 4 x 4 inch (16 sq in): $325
Color adds $40 on a small piece; a hard spot (ribs, hands, feet, neck) adds $40. A 3 x 3 inch piece in color is about $260, shown as $230 to $300.
When it switches to hourly
Past about 16 square inches, time matters more than size. Most artists price those pieces by the hour: with sample rates, $300 for the first 2 hours and $150 for each hour after. A palm-sized forearm piece of 3 hours is $450; a half sleeve might be 8 hours or more across sessions, $1,200 for the first 8.
How to measure your idea
Print the design or sketch it on paper at the size you want, hold it on the spot and measure the widest and tallest points. Placement changes size: the same design looks smaller on a thigh than on a wrist. Your artist may suggest a bigger size so fine detail heals well.
The final price
Every number here is an estimate. The artist sets the final price at the consultation. Try the full tattoo cost calculator for hourly pieces, cover-ups and flash, or read how to price tattoo cover-ups.