So, you’re eyeing Austin as your next big move? Good choice. The “Live Music Capital of the World” isn’t just about killer barbecue and eccentric street performances—it’s also a thriving hub for Tattoo Artists. Whether you’re drawn to its artistic scene, no-state-income-tax perks, or just want to be somewhere where people wear cowboy boots unironically, Austin might be your tattoo career’s next frontier. But is it the right place for you? Let’s break it down.
Beyond its reputation as a creative hub, Austin is also a business-friendly city with a booming economy, making it a great place to set up shop. The city attracts thousands of new residents yearly, meaning fresh clientele for Tattoo Artists. Plus, as one of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the U.S., the demand for skilled Tattoo Artists is only increasing.
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Why Try Relocating to Austin as a Tattoo Artist?
Austin has long been a tattoo-friendly city, but over the past decade, it’s evolved into a true destination for body art. With over 100 studios and events like the Star of Texas Tattoo Art Revival, it’s no surprise that artists from all over the country are coming here.
Add in other major festivals like SXSW and Austin City Limits, and you’ve got year-round demand for artists offering everything from flash tattoos to custom work. These events attract people looking to commemorate their experience with fresh ink, creating extra business opportunities for Tattoo Artists. Some studios even set up pop-up booths during these festivals to cater to the influx of clients.
Looking for a guaranteed job offer as a Tattoo Artist? Start your tattoo apprenticeship today!
How Do You Land a Job at a Tattoo Studio in Austin?
The good news? You don’t need to stress about job hunting if you train with Ink Different Tattoo School—because we guarantee a job offer upon completion of your tattoo apprenticeship. That’s right. No walking into shops with your portfolio, no worrying about breaking into the industry. We take care of that for you.
While networking, attending conventions, and building a strong social media presence are great ways to grow your career, you won’t have to rely on them to land your first job. With our structured tattoo apprenticeship, you’ll be set up for success from day one.
Learn more about the profession on our website or read how to change careers and become a Tattoo Artist!
Where Should You Live in Austin?
If you want to be near the action, East Austin is your best bet. It’s packed with trendy coffee shops, art galleries, and tattoo shops, making it an ideal place to network and immerse yourself in the local tattoo scene. However, rent prices here are on the higher side.
If affordability is your main concern, consider North Loop or South Austin, where you can still find good spots without completely draining your bank account. And if you don’t mind a short commute, Round Rock or Pflugerville offer lower rent and a quieter suburban feel.
Some newer, up-and-coming areas to watch include:
- Mueller – A planned community with parks, great restaurants, and newer apartment complexes.
- Windsor Park – More affordable than central Austin but still close to downtown.
- Cedar Park – A bit further out, but with cheaper housing options and excellent schools.
- Manor – A developing area where rent is still relatively low but expected to rise in the next few years.
If you’re looking for housing in Austin, websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and PadMapper are great places to start your search.
Looking for information for parents of young Tattoo Artists? Continue reading about parents who want to help their children become Tattoo Artists.
Can You Afford Relocating to Austin as a Tattoo Artist?
Let’s talk numbers. Austin isn’t the cheapest city in Texas, but it’s still manageable compared to other major tattoo hubs like Los Angeles or New York. The median rent for a one-bedroom apartment is around $1,600, but you can find better deals if you don’t mind roommates (or living in one of the outer neighborhoods).
Tattoo Artists in Austin can earn an average income of $105,894, which is pretty solid compared to other careers. However, your income might start lower as a tattoo apprentice or a new tattoo artist—so budgeting is key. The good news? Austin’s cost of living is lower than that of cities like NYC or San Francisco, and there’s no state income tax, meaning more hard-earned cash stays in your pocket.
But keep in mind, beyond rent, other expenses can add up. Here are a few things to consider in your budget:
- Utilities (electricity, water, internet): around $150–$200 per month
- Groceries: around $350–$500 per month depending on your eating habits
- Transportation: Austin isn’t the most walkable city, so if you drive, expect gas, car insurance, and maintenance costs. A CapMetro bus pass costs $41.25 per month if you rely on public transportation.
- Health insurance (if self-employed): Around $300 per month
- Supplies & equipment: If you’re working as a Tattoo Artist, be prepared to invest in quality tattooing gear, which can range from $1,000–$5,000, depending on the brands you prefer.
To plan your finances before moving, check out websites like Numbeo and SmartAsset to compare living costs and budgeting tools.
With the right planning, relocating to Austin for you tattoo career can be great! However, it’s essential to have a financial game plan before making the big move.
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.


How Can Ink Different Tattoo School Help You Start Your Career in Austin?
At Ink Different Tattoo School, we’re all about setting up our apprentices for real, lasting careers in tattooing. Our tattoo apprenticeship program isn’t just about teaching you how to handle a tattoo machine—it’s about ensuring you graduate with the skills, experience, and connections to start working as a professional Tattoo Artist.
We don’t believe in the old-school, unpaid, work-for-free apprenticeships that force you to clean floors for years before you touch a machine. Instead, we provide a structured, hands-on learning experience, guiding you every step of the way with professional tattoo mentors.
We also help you build your portfolio, develop your artistic style, and understand the business side of tattooing so you can confidently walk into your first job.

What Makes Our Tattoo Apprenticeship Stand Out For Those Relocating to Austin?
Not all apprenticeships are created equal. At Ink Different, we focus on quality training, real-world experience, and a direct path to employment. You won’t just be watching from the sidelines—you’ll be actively learning in a real tattoo studio setting, getting one-on-one mentorship from professional Tattoo Artists who want to see you succeed.
Our curriculum covers everything from tattoo techniques and design principles to safety, sanitation, and customer service. Because we operate in multiple cities, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with a nationwide network of artists.
Beyond just teaching tattooing, we focus on helping you build a career so you can confidently walk into a shop (or even open your own).
Want to Learn in Spanish or Portuguese?
Tattooing is a global art form, and at Ink Different Tattoo School, we embrace bilingual education. If you prefer to learn in Spanish, you’ll feel right at home in our Brooklyn, Chicago, Tampa, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale locations—where we have Spanish-speaking mentors ready to guide you.
Looking for a Portuguese-speaking tattoo apprenticeship? Our Dallas and Orlando locations offer instruction in Portuguese, ensuring that language is never a barrier to learning. No matter where you come from, we’re here to help you build your dream career.