Tattoo Artist Salary (March 2024) - Zippia (2024)

FAQs

What is the job outlook for a Tattoo Artist in the next 10 years? ›

Tattoo artist salaries typically range between $24,000 and $108,000 yearly. The average hourly rate for tattoo artists is $24.94 per hour. Tattoo artist salary is impacted by location, education, and experience.

Scott Campbell | $2,000 for the 1st Hour

Scott is renowned for his unique style and his ability to create intricate and symbolic designs. He is booked out for up to two years in advance. He charges $2000 for the first hour, and then $200 per hour.

So, do tattoo artists make good money? The answer is it depends. While some thrive financially, earning six-figure incomes through their craft, others may struggle, especially in less populated or competitive areas. Experience, location, and market demand significantly determine a tattoo artist's salary.

Some charge a set rate per hour, and their hourly rate typically depends upon a number of factors, such as where they work and how in-demand their services are. Artists charge anywhere between $50-$400 per hour, with most somewhere between $100-250 per hour. Some charge a flat rate per piece.

Some tattoo artists make a lot of money, but it's not a sure thing for everyone. To earn big, you've got to be an awesome artist and be smart about running your business and getting the word out there. In addition, building a strong portfolio and reputation is crucial for attracting clients and earning a higher income.

Tattoo artists receive payment for each tattoo they complete, but if they don't own their own studio, the studio owners will typically take a commission from each tattoo. The specific commission arrangement varies depending on the contract, with a common split being an even 50/50 between the studio and the artist.

A tattoo artist's hours are variable, depending on whether they are employed or self-employed and work full-time or part-time. Most will work 30–40 hours a week, Monday–Friday, 9–5.

Can you make 6 figures as a tattoo artist? ›

Entry-level artists who are building their portfolio and clientele may earn less, while experienced artists could earn six figures, especially if they have a significant following on social media or specialize in an in-demand style.

Physicians and surgeons report the highest salaries in the U.S., with pediatric surgeons earning the highest mean wage at nearly $450,000 per year, the BLS reports. Cardiologists, orthopedic surgeons, radiologists and surgeons also rank among the highest-paid occupations in the country.

Among the many celebrities she was lucky enough to tattoo are Jared Leto, Joey Castillo, Lady Gaga, Demi Lovato and Miley Cyrus. Kat Von D is perhaps the most famous female tattoo artist in the world so far, and she charges around $200 an hour.

As the most respected tattoo artist in the industry, and with four decades worth of experience, Mark Mahoney holds an impressive clientele list. The popularization of the single needle/fine-line style is thanks to Mahoney.

Based on recent job posting activity on ZipRecruiter, the Tattoo Artist job market in California is not very active as few companies are currently hiring. California ranks number 19 out of 50 states nationwide for Tattoo Artist salaries.

Overall, the future of the tattoo market looks promising. With the continued evolution of tattoo trends, increasing social acceptance, technological advancements, and the integration of tattoos into mainstream culture, the industry is poised for sustained growth.

According to the latest research, the global Tattoo market size was valued at USD 14701.56 million in 2022 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 8.51% during the forecast period, reaching USD 23995.97 million by 2028. A tattoo is a permanent kind of body art.

The global tattoo market is experiencing a renaissance, with societal norms evolving to embrace body art as a form of personal expression. The industry is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 9.60% during the forecast period of 2024-2032.