Small tattoo
Fineline, symbols, wrist, often in the lower price range.
Open matching galleryTattoo prices: what does a tattoo really cost?
Quick answer
A tattoo in Germany usually costs between €80 and €500. Small motifs are often €80–200, medium ones €200–500, and large projects start at €800. Many artists charge an hourly rate of €80–150. On tathood the median is €400, based on 325 real tattoos with price info.
Tattoo prices are rarely one-size-fits-all. Size, style, placement, and artist experience heavily influence effort.
This hub shows realistic budget ranges and links directly to matching examples.
This hub shows realistic budget ranges and links directly to matching examples.
Data base: 325 tattoos with price info, median 400 euros, coverage 44 percent. Editorially updated May 2026.
Tattoo prices by size and range
Real price data from tathood artists' portfolios, grouped by budget range. Tap a range for matching examples.
| Price range | Typical motifs | Examples | Median | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| up to €200 | Mini, fineline, lettering, small symbols | 58 | €180 | View examples |
| €201–400 | Forearm, shoulder, medium single motifs | 127 | €350 | View examples |
| €401–800 | Detailed pieces, half forearms, color | 119 | €550 | View examples |
| from €800 | Sleeves, back pieces, multi-session projects | 21 | €1000 | View examples |
Data base: real tattoos with price info from tathood artists. Overall median €400, editorially updated May 2026.
Median price by tattoo style
Median cost across different styles, calculated from real tattoos with price info from tathood artists.
| Style | Examples | Median |
|---|---|---|
| Black & Gray | 103 | €450 |
| Illustrative | 87 | €400 |
| Blackwork | 67 | €400 |
| Fineline | 62 | €400 |
| Ornamental | 52 | €400 |
| Line Work | 44 | €250 |
| Dotwork | 37 | €350 |
| Botanical / Floral | 31 | €400 |
Real tattoos by budget range
This selection shows how motifs can look across different budget levels.
Price guides by budget
Each guide shows typical motifs, pricing logic, and real examples for that range.
up to €200
View all tattoos in this price range€201–400
View all tattoos in this price range€401–800
View all tattoos in this price rangefrom €800
View all tattoos in this price rangeHow tattoo prices are built
Price usually depends on motif size, style, detail level, session time, and artist experience.
Placement and potential touch-up effort can also increase cost. Good planning avoids cutting corners.
Placement and potential touch-up effort can also increase cost. Good planning avoids cutting corners.
Which factors determine the tattoo price?
These factors decide where your motif lands within a range, ordered top to bottom by weight:
- Size: More surface means more time, the single biggest cost driver.
- Detail level: Fine lines, gradients, and micro-realism need more skill and time.
- Style: Realism and color work usually cost more than simple linework.
- Placement: Ribs, hands, or feet are more demanding than forearm or calf.
- Color vs. black/gray: Color and saturation increase effort and often touch-ups.
- Artist experience: In-demand artists with a waitlist charge higher rates.
How much does a tattoo cost per hour?
Many artists don't charge a flat rate but bill by the hour. €80 to €150 per hour is common; experienced or in-demand artists charge more. Small, clear motifs are often a fixed price, while larger projects are billed hourly or per session.
Is there a tattoo minimum price?
Most studios set a minimum price, usually between €80 and €120. It covers preparation, sterile materials, and setting up the workstation, even for a tiny motif. Also plan for a deposit, which many artists request at booking and apply to the final price.
Start with budget, then motif
Fineline tattoo
Fine lines need experience, prices vary by size.
Open matching gallerySleeve & larger pieces
Multiple sessions, usually from €800 upward.
Open matching galleryFor more context, visit the tattoo meanings hub, the tattoo gallery, or forearm tattoos women and forearm tattoos men.
FAQ: tattoo prices
Price information is editorial guidance based on publicly visible studio and portfolio data, not a binding offer.