Is owning a tattoo shop profitable?
Christopher Davis
Updated on March 04, 2026
Tattoo Parlor Startup Costs The business is easy to enter and can be lucrative. One can get started for about $27,000. After a few years of establishing their clientele and honing their craft, most tattoo artists earn $50,000/year and shops have an average profit margin of 55% after expenses.
How do I start a tattoo business?
9 ways for a tattoo artist to get more clients
- Help promote your tattoo shop.
- Build a personal brand.
- Create a signature style.
- Launch a professional website.
- Get on the right social media platforms.
- Work the hashtag.
- Encourage clients to share their experience.
- Travel to tattoo conventions.
Do tattoo Parlours need a Licence?
Licence Requirements If you carry out any form of skin piercing and / or tattooing you must be in possession of a licence that has been granted by the local authority in which you operate from. The activity of skin piercing or tattooing includes: cosmetic body piercing including ear piercing.
How much does opening a tattoo shop cost?
The average cost of opening a tattoo parlor can be as high as $50,000. However, with the increasing demand for body art, you may be able to recoup your investment in a short amount of time if you own a successful tattoo shop.
How do tattoo shop owners make money?
Tattoo shop employees are typically paid one of two ways: They receive a percentage of the price of their tattoos, or they pay the business owner a weekly or monthly booth rental payment, then keep the rest of their income. In a 60/40 split of a $100 tattoo, the business owner receives $40, and the artist keeps $60.
Who is the richest tattoo artist?
Scoot Campbell Scoott Campbell is the richest tattoo artist in the world. He charges less than $1000 per hour. He started his own shop named as Saved Tattoo in 2005 in New York. His shop is the most famous tattoo shop in the Hollywood and having many tattoo artists among top 10 richest tattoo artists.
Can I run a tattoo business from home?
Tips. Each state, and even individual public health departments, maintain their own requirements for tattoo artists. While working from home may not be explicitly prohibited by law, doing so is unlikely to meet health and safety standards.
Is there money in tattooing?
Tattoo artists can make good money because they do everything from infinity symbols on fingers to stunning full body designs. Gifted artistry, steady hands and raw courage are required when skin is your canvas. Famous body artists can earn up to $500 per hour, or more.
Is tattooing a good job?
The tattoo industry isn’t an easy industry to make it in, but if you’re persistent and work hard to constantly hone your craft, it can be incredibly rewarding. On a daily basis, you’ll be helping people commemorate milestones in their lives.
How to get a tattoo shop business license?
You automatically register with the Department of Revenue when you file a Business License Application to get a business license. Complete a Body Art, Body Piercing, and Tattoo Shop, Mobile Unit, or Event Location Application. Mail your application to the address on the form. Be sure to include all of the following: Completed application form.
Do you need a license for a tattoo parlor?
Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a tattoo parlor. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits.
What do you need to become a tattoo artist?
To open a tattoo studio, you have to apply to the state for a tattoo license specific to that location. If you offer body piercing as well, you need a second, separate application. To work in someone else’s studio, you have to register as a tattoo artist with the state after taking training in infection control and aseptic tattoo procedures.
Do you need a license to get a tattoo in Arizona?
Arizona: In Arizona, you do not need a license to open your tattoo business, so go ahead and start your business. The Arkansas Department of Public Health issues tattoo licence in the state, and it called the Tattoo Artist, Permanent Cosmetic Artist, Body Piercer or Brander License. The state of Arkansas requires a formal exam for licensure.