Tattoo artists in the United States make varying amounts depending on experience, location, skill level, and business arrangements. Here is a summary of typical earnings as of 2025:
- Hourly Pay : The average hourly wage for a tattoo artist is around $51 to $52 per hour, with some sources reporting averages as high as $97.64 per hour and top earners making over $160 per hour. Entry-level artists typically earn closer to $20-$30 per hour, while experienced artists can earn significantly more
- Annual Salary : The average annual salary ranges widely, from about $29,000 for beginners or apprentices to over $300,000 for highly skilled and established artists. The median salary is often cited around $50,000 to $65,000 per year. Apprentices might start around $40,000 to $47,000 annually, while experienced artists commonly earn between $60,000 and $80,000 or more per year
- Monthly Income : Based on annual salaries, monthly earnings typically range from approximately $3,300 for apprentices to $6,600 or higher for seasoned tattoo artists
- Business Model Impact : Many tattoo artists charge clients about $150 per hour, but if they work in a shop that takes a cut (e.g., 40%), their actual income per hour might be closer to $90
- Location Variations : Salaries vary by city and state. For example, tattoo artists in New York, Pennsylvania, and Alaska tend to earn higher wages, with cities like Miami and Portland also offering above-average pay
In summary, tattoo artist earnings vary greatly, with opportunities for significant income growth as artists gain experience, build a reputation, and possibly manage their own studios or work in high-demand locations. Entry- level artists earn modestly, while top professionals can earn six figures annually or more.
