Tattoo Costs: What You Should Know Before Getting Inked
If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo, one of the first questions on your mind is probably: how much will it cost? The answer isn’t always straightforward — the tattoo industry uses a mix of hourly rates, flat rates, and minimum charges, and every design is different. At Inkdulgence Tattoo, we’re committed to honest, transparent pricing structures so you know what to expect before you book.
Below, we break down the most common tattoo costs by area, and explain the pricing factors that can influence your quote — including size and complexity, artist experience, geographic region, and even the tattooing process itself.
Sleeve Tattoo Cost
A full-sleeve tattoo is one of the most detailed and time-intensive pieces of body art. Costs can range significantly depending on whether it's full color or black and grey, and the level of design intricacy involved.
Average session time: 15–30 hours across multiple sittings
Tattoo pricing: Typically charged by the hourly rate or a day rate for longer sessions
Pricing structure: Discuss during your initial consultation to decide between a flat rate or session-based payment
Half-Sleeve Tattoo Cost
A half-sleeve tattoo is usually from the shoulder to the elbow or elbow to the wrist. While it involves less work than a full sleeve, it still includes considerable detail.
Estimated hours: 8–15
Tattoo costs: Influenced by color or black & gray, design complexity, and artist experience level
Hip or Thigh Tattoo Cost
The hip and thigh area provides a large canvas and is often used for custom-designed tattoos or flowing, artistic styles.
Design fee may apply for graphic designers involved in the design process
May require multiple sessions due to the detail level or color tattoos
Hand or Finger Tattoo Cost
Hand and finger tattoos may look small, but they’re technically challenging and require precision.
Charged at a minimum charge due to the difficulty and touch-up requirements
Tattoo shop costs here may include special aftercare products due to quicker fading
Full or Partial Chest Tattoo Cost
A chest tattoo can range from a small design over the heart to a detailed tattoo across the full chest and collarbones.
Expect variations in pricing structure depending on studio reputation and artist experience
Larger pieces may be quoted using a price calculator or flat rate
Full or Partial Back Tattoo Cost
A full back tattoo is among the most ambitious pieces in the tattoo industry.
May take upwards of 30 hours
Often priced using session costs or a Complete Removal Package quote if laser removal is a future concern
Large-scale tattoos can include Travel Expenses if a guest artist or off-site session is involved
Other Tattoo Cost Considerations
Flash Tattoos vs Custom Tattoos
Flash designs: Pre-designed tattoos, generally more affordable
Custom tattoos: Tailored to your body and story, may include a design fee
Tattoo Pricing in Urban vs Rural Regions
Urban areas: Often higher due to cost of living and studio overheads
Rural regions: May have lower hourly rates, but availability and artist experience vary
Tattoo Cover Ups and Reworks
Cover up tattoos can be more expensive due to additional design complexity
Discuss ink type and layering techniques during your consult
Tattoo Removal Costs
Laser tattoo removal and complete removal packages depend on design intricacy and color saturation
In some cases, tattoo removal is paired with cover up plans
What’s Included in Tattoo Costs?
A reliable tattoo parlor should include:
High-quality ink type
Certified sterilisation equipment and disposal tubes
Clean tattoo beds meeting Australian safety standards
Reference material for designing or choosing art
Optional: Referral cards, payment plans, or bundled Services and Pricing
How Much Does a Tattoo Cost at Inkdulgence?
At Inkdulgence, our rate is transparent, our pricing structure is fair, and our artists put in the hard work to deliver safe, stunning tattoos. Whether you're getting a small flash tattoo or a full sleeves masterpiece, we tailor our quotes based on the size, detail, and your preferences. We offer custom tattoos, realistic price breakdowns, and advice on both aftercare products and tattoo removal if needed.
For more information, or to chat about your design idea, book your initial consultation at our tattoo studio today.
