America’s Booming Tattoo Economy: A $1.5 Billion Industry

Tattoos. They’ve developed from many different cultures into what we all know today. They’re used by generations to sculpt identities, experiences, and originality, transforming the body into a work of art and telling a person’s story without a single spoken word.  

But what is it exactly that makes the billion dollar tattoo industry that we all know and love work?

The tattoo industry is larger and more lucrative than it’s ever been. Read on to learn how the popularity and cultural acceptance of tattoos caused a “boom” for the tattoo industry. Find out how much money a tattoo artist makes, how many people are employed by the tattoo industry and more below. If you’re curious about joining this billion dollar industry, then you’ve come to the right place!

The Popularity and Acceptance of Tattoos in Culture

Within the past two decades, the tattoo industry has exploded. Body art was once exclusive to underground and fringe crowds. However, now that mainstream popular culture embraces tattooing as an art form, the market continues to grow.

Celebrities from all over the entertainment industry are known for their tattoos. From music industry stars like Justin Bieber and Miley Cyrus to Hollywood actors like Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp, tattoos are made famous by the celebs that wear them.

The fine art world has shown an acceptance of tattoos. Photographs of tattoos and fine artwork from tattoo artists are displayed at museums across the globe. Tattooing is the latest form of “outsider art” to rock the world of fine art.

Now that tattoos are in the spotlight, more people are getting tattooed. Three out of every ten Americans have at least one tattoo. The tattoo industry is getting bigger and bigger with no signs of slowing down.

How Much Money Do Most Tattoo Artists Make?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that a tattoo artist in the United States, on average, makes $49,520 each year.

The amount of money a tattoo artist can make depends on a multitude of factors. Some of them are:

– Location: Tattoo artists located in big cities will have more clientele, but they’ll also have more competition. A tattoo artist that exclusively serves a small market won’t have that problem, but their potential customer base is limited.

– Experience: How long you’ve been a tattoo artist affects how much you can charge. When you’ve had years of practice and you’ve developed a solid reputation, you can make more money. Some experienced artists can also make money selling their designs to other tattoo artists.

– Education: Where you’ve been taught how to tattoo matters. The network of mentors and trainers you gain along the way will influence your entire tattoo career. That’s why getting the right training is paramount.

— Did you know that Ink Different Tattoo School offers tattoo apprenticeships that feature a warm, welcoming community and guaranteed job offer?—

The Demand for Tattoo Artists Now and in the Future

Tattoos and piercings are more popular with people 18 – 29 than they’ve ever been. In a recent report, it was found that 38% of young adults at least 18 years old have at least one tattoo. This does not include individuals under 18.

There are an estimated 21,000 tattoo parlors in the United States. This number includes all licensed and registered body art studios where tattooing is practiced.

The amount of registered parlors may not reflect the entire amount of working tattoo artists. There are over 38,000 reported tattoo businesses that employ over 45,000 individuals.

Market Size and Revenue of the Tattoo Industry

According to IBIS World, the size of the tattoo industry will continue to grow. Currently, the tattoo industry is experiencing a 13% annual market growth rate. With a reported $1.5 billion in yearly revenue, they forecast that growth will continue to accelerate in the next few years.

In an independent study published by Marketdata, the estimated combined market value of tattooing and tattoo removal is over $3 billion. One of the key contributing factors they credit for the “tattoo boom” is the emergence of better-trained tattoo artists. Since more quality artists are serving the market with excellent tattoo work, people are more inclined to get a tattoo.

— Body Art & Soul’s tattoo apprenticeships provide comprehensive training for future professional tattoo artists! Learn more here! —

Make Money with Your Art – Become a Professional Tattoo Artist through a Tattoo Apprenticeship

Are you ready to take your piece of this billion dollar industry? It has never been easier to follow your passion and become empowered by your career by entering the world of professional tattooing.

Start your journey by enrolling in the Ink Different Tattoo Schooling Apprenticeship program. Sign up for a one-year full-time or two-year part-time training schedule and master your craft in a comfortable and professional environment. B.A.S. teaches you everything you need to be a success and with our apprenticeships, you will feel supported, capable, and inspired. Turn your dream into a reality with us!

We believe so strongly in our apprenticeship program that we guarantee a job offer to every graduate! Turn your passion into your profession and make money with your art. Click here to get started.