How Much Do Tattoo Artists Make in the USA? (2025 Salary Guide)

In 2025, the tattoo industry is booming as the interest in tattoos is growing worldwide. This raises the question of how much does a tattoo artist earn, whether they are a professional artist or an amateur. We suggest you study the average salary of tattoo artists in different states of the United States and understand what factors affect the amount of money a tattoo artist earns. This salary guide USA 2025 breaks down average earnings, top-paying states, and hourly rates.

Average Tattoo Artist Salary in the USA (2025)

Thus, as of 2025, a tattoo artist in the United States earns an average of $54,000 per year. Of course, this figure is average and very relative. Beginners or students can earn $15,000-25,000 per year, and mid-level professionals can earn $35,000-65,000. As for renowned artists, their earnings can range from $75,000 to $150,000 and more. The earnings of freelancers and shop owners in large cities such as Los Angeles, New York or Miami can reach up to $200,000, depending on the number of their clients.

Factors That Affect a Tattoo Artist’s Income

Now we propose to talk about the factors on which the amount of money earned by a tattoo artist largely depends. And so, the first thing on which the amount of money depends is experience. The more experienced the artist, the higher the cost of the services he offers. And novice masters start working at lower prices, based on their lack of skills and reputation. The second important factor that affects the earnings of a tattoo artist is the location of the tattoo parlor. In large cities such as New York, San Francisco, the demand for tattoo artists is high, which cannot be said about rural areas. It is also important whether you work as the owner of the salon or as an employee. An employee usually shares his profits with the owner. And the owner, in turn, has a number of expenses, although he receives a larger share than an employee.

It is highly encouraged to specialise in a specific direction, such as fine-line, realism, portrait, or cosmetic tattoos. In this case, you will earn more. And of course, social platforms play a big role in our days. Well-known artists with a strong Instagram or TikTok following attract high-paying clients and sponsorship deals.

Highest Paying States & Cities for Tattoo Artists (2025)

As for cities like Los Angeles, Portland, Austin, and Miami are tattoo hotspots with higher demand and client budgets.

Hourly vs Commission Pay Models

A tattoo artist can earn money on an hourly basis or on a commission basis. The hourly rate can be $50-$250, and the commission is usually some portion of the amount paid by the client, such as 30% or some other percentage.

Some studios charge artists a “booth rental” fee instead of commission, letting them keep 100% of client earnings after paying for the space.

Tattoo Apprenticeship Pay in 2025

Apprentices’ training usually lasts from 6 months to 2 years. During this time, they are not paid, and sometimes they pay for their own lessons with an experienced and respected artist. At the end of the course, they receive a license, after which they can start earning money. The amount starts from about $ 15,000-25,000.

How Much Do Tattoo Shop Owners Make?

Tattoo parlor owners have several sources of income. They receive money from renting out space, from commissions, from selling various care products, and from organizing events hosting famous artists. Their income can be up to $ 100,000 per year. However, let’s not forget that they also have quite large expenses, such as rent, supplies, licenses, and marketing.

Freelance vs Studio Artists: Who Makes More?

It’s a bit difficult to make a comparison, because studio artists earn less than freelancers, but their expenses are also lower. And freelancers make much more money. But they have to pay for equipment and supplies, studio space, health and liability insurance, marketing and admin costs.

Job Outlook: Is Tattooing a Good Career in 2025? According to forecasts, the art of tattooing will continue to flourish beyond 2025. Interest in cosmetic and medical tattoos among different age groups of society continues to grow. And if you are hardworking and skilled, passionate about the art, have good marketing skills and a willingness to improve, then your chances of making a big income in the art of tattooing are higher in 2025 than ever.