Tattoo artists have the unique ability to create permanent works of art on the human body. But how much do these talented individuals make for their craft? In this article, we’ll explore the earning potential of tattoo artists and the factors that can influence their pay.
Factors That Affect a Tattoo Artist’s Earnings
There are several factors that can influence how much a tattoo artist makes, including location, experience, and skill level.
Location:
Tattoo artists in larger cities or areas with a high demand for tattooing may be able to charge more for their services than those in smaller towns or rural areas. Additionally, tattoo artists who work in upscale shops or studios may be able to charge more than those who work in more casual or less established locations.
Experience:
Tattoo artists who have been in the business for a longer period of time may be able to charge more for their services than newer or less experienced artists. This is due to the fact that they have likely built up a strong reputation and have a loyal client base.
Skill level:
Tattoo artists who are considered to be highly skilled or specialized in a certain style or technique may be able to charge more for their services than those who are less skilled.
Average Earnings of Tattoo Artists
The earning potential of a tattoo artist can vary greatly depending on the factors mentioned above. However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for tattoo artists was $20.36 in May 2020. This means that half of all tattoo artists in the U.S. earned more than this amount, while half earned less.
It is important to note that many tattoo artists work on a commission basis, rather than an hourly wage. This means that they earn a percentage of the price of each tattoo they do, rather than a set hourly rate. The commission rate can vary depending on the artist and the shop or studio they work at.
Table:
| Location | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| New York City | $30 |
| Los Angeles | $25 |
| Houston | $20 |
| Chicago | $22 |
| Phoenix | $18 |
It is important to note that the above table is an example and the hourly wage can vary depending on the artist and the shop or studio they work at.
Can a tattoo artist make a good living?
Yes, a tattoo artist can make a good living, particularly if they are located in an area with a high demand for tattooing, have a good reputation and a loyal client base, and are highly skilled or specialized in a certain style or technique.
How do tattoo artists typically get paid?
Many tattoo artists work on a commission basis, rather than an hourly wage. This means that they earn a percentage of the price of each tattoo they do, rather than a set hourly rate.
Is it possible to make a career out of tattooing?
Yes, it is possible to make a career out of tattooing. As with any career, the earning potential can vary depending on a variety of factors, such as location, experience, and skill level.
In conclusion, tattoo artists have the potential to make a good living, but the earning potential can vary greatly depending on factors such as location, experience, and skill level. It is important to keep in mind that the earning data mentioned in this article is just an estimate and can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances.