Making 6 Figures as a Tattoo Artist: A Guide to Tattoo Career Success

Published by Paul-Anthony Surdi at February 1, 2025

Achieving Financial Success as a Tattoo Artist: Your Path to a Six-Figure Income

So, you want to make 6 figures as a tattoo artist? Good news—it’s possible. In fact, top tattoo artists rake in well over $100,000 a year, and some make even more. But it’s not just about inking cool designs and posting them on Instagram. Getting to that level takes skill, strategy, and knowing how to run your tattoo career like a business. According to a report by IBISWorld, the tattoo industry in the U.S. has grown to a $1.5 billion market, proving that demand for high-quality tattooing is at an all-time high. The industry has also seen steady annual growth, driven by increasing social acceptance and technological advancements in tattoo equipment, making it a lucrative career for skilled tattoo artists.

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Is Making Six Figures as a Tattoo Artist Realistic?

Absolutely. The tattoo industry is booming, with more people than ever getting inked. According to Pew Research, 32% of Americans have at least one tattoo, which is only climbing. With celebrities and influencers flaunting ink more than ever, social acceptance is at an all-time high. This demand means tattoo artists who hone their craft and build strong personal brands can charge premium prices. Additionally, the industry is seeing rapid growth, with the tattoo removal market alone expected to reach $3.57 billion by 2032, indicating an ever-evolving customer base. This trend highlights how tattoos are no longer considered a permanent decision but a form of art that evolves with a person’s taste, increasing the number of people willing to invest in new ink.

Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!

How Much Do Tattoo Artists Actually Make?

Tattoo artists’ income varies based on location, skill level, and business strategy. According to ZipRecruiter, the average U.S. tattoo artist earns around $100,000 annually, but experienced tattoo artists in high-demand areas can make well over $150,000 annually. Those working in cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami can command significantly higher rates due to demand and cost of living. The top 10% of tattoo artists earn over $150,000 annually; some elite artists earn $250,000+ annually in major metropolitan areas. Tattooing has become a stable and lucrative career path, particularly for those who understand business and branding. Many tattoo artists diversify their income by selling custom designs, creating online content, or offering educational courses.

Did you know our tattoo school, Ink Different, has locations in several exciting cities across the United States? We do! We have locations in Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Orange County, Chicago, Tampa, Miami, Philadelphia, St. Louis, Atlanta and Connecticut.

What Separates a Six-Figure Tattoo Artist from the Rest?

What is the difference between a tattoo artist making $40,000 yearly and one making six figures? A combination of talent, business savvy, and clever marketing. High-earning tattoo artists:

Master their craft – They continuously improve their skills and specialize in styles that attract high-paying clients. People are more willing to pay for specialized, high-quality work rather than generic designs. Specialization can make a tattoo artist stand out and allow them to charge premium prices.
Charge what they’re worth – They don’t underprice their work; they set competitive rates based on demand and expertise. Customers looking for high-end tattoos are willing to pay up more for an experienced tattoo artist. Understanding pricing strategies ensures that artists don’t undervalue their work.
Have a strong brand—They build a recognizable name through social media, collaborations, and word-of-mouth marketing. Tattoo artists who engage with their audience online get more bookings. This engagement helps build trust and keeps a steady stream of clients coming in.
Maximize income streams – They sell prints, offer merchandise, and take guest spots at top studios. Diversifying income sources is the key to long-term financial success. Many artists also offer consultation services for first-time tattoo clients, adding another revenue layer.

6 figures as a tattoo artist

Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.

How Do You Set Your Tattoo Prices for Profit?

One of the biggest mistakes new tattoo artists make is charging too little. You don’t want to overprice yourself out of the market, but undercharging won’t help you build a sustainable career either. High-earning tattoo artists set their prices based on:

Experience and demand – If your books are constantly full, it’s time to raise your rates.
Location – Tattoo artists in cities like New York or Los Angeles can charge significantly more than those in smaller towns.
Complexity of work – Full sleeves and custom designs should be priced accordingly.
Time commitment – A 10-hour tattoo shouldn’t cost the same as a quick wristpiece.

Artists specializing in detailed, large-scale work can charge $250 per hour, compared to the national average of $100-$200 per hour. Additionally, well-branded artists can charge premium rates for their unique artistic style and exclusive appointments, ensuring long-term financial success.

Learn more about the profession on our website or read how to change careers and become a Tattoo Artist!

Want to Get There Faster? Train with Ink Different Tattoo School

If you’re serious about making 6 figures as a tattoo artist, training matters. At Ink Different Tattoo School, we provide hands-on tattoo apprenticeships designed to turn aspiring artists into professionals. Our experienced mentors guide you through technique, safety, and business skills to ensure you have everything you need to succeed. We also help you build your brand and network, giving you an edge in this competitive industry. Our program is structured to provide real-world experience, ensuring you’re prepared to start working as soon as you complete your training.

Ink Different’s Tattoo Apprenticeship: Your Shortcut to Success

Our tattoo apprenticeship is more than just learning how to tattoo—it’s about building a career. You’ll work with professional mentors, get real-world experience, and gain the skills needed to thrive in the industry. Plus, we teach business strategies to help you maximize your income. Unlike most apprenticeships that leave students uncertain about their career path, we provide a structured roadmap to success, ensuring you gain confidence and experience. Our students graduate with technical skills and business knowledge to help them secure financial stability.

Our Guaranteed Job Offer: No Guesswork, Just Results

Unlike most apprenticeships, we provide a guaranteed job offer at the end of your training. That means you’re not left wondering what’s next—we help you transition into a professional tattoo career with real earning potential. Our commitment to our students doesn’t end when the apprenticeship is over; we continue providing mentorship, helping you scale your career and increase your income over time. This ensures our graduates enter the industry with confidence and long-term financial stability.

We also Speak Spanish and Portuguese!

We make tattoo education accessible to more people by offering training in Spanish at our New York City, Chicago, Tampa, Greenville, Orlando, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale locations. Plus, we offer Portuguese speakers training in Dallas and Orlando. No matter where you’re from, we’re here to help you build your dream tattoo career.

Ready to make 6 figures as a tattoo artist? Let’s get you started.