Pricing Guide
WHAT DOES A TATTOO actually cost?
Tattoo pricing in Savannah follows the same logic as anywhere else: you're paying for skill, time, and artistic vision. What varies is the weight you give each of those factors — and how you find the artist who balances them correctly for your budget.
Here's the honest breakdown for Savannah in 2026:
Shop minimum: $100–$150. This is what you'll pay for the smallest possible piece at most quality shops in Savannah — Paris Joelle Tattoos, Savannah Ink Tattoo, and Drop Dead Tattoo all have shop minimums in this range. It covers the setup, supplies, and the artist's time for a very small design.
Small tattoo (2–4 inches): $150–$300. A solid small piece — simple flash, a small custom design, a minimal symbol. This is the most common range for first tattoos and tourist pieces.
Medium tattoo (4–6 inches): $300–$600. More detail, more time. A full forearm design, a detailed floral, a portrait of a pet. Hourly rates for quality Savannah artists run $150–$250/hour.
Large and complex work: $600+, often much more. Sleeves, back pieces, large realism guide portraits, and complex illustrative tattoo guide work require multiple sessions and serious investment. Budget accordingly.
"In tattooing, cheap work isn't good and good work isn't cheap. The math only works one way."
Style affects price too. realism guide and neo-traditional guide take significantly longer than traditional tattoo guide flash. cover up tattoo guide work costs more than fresh skin. fine line tattoo guide requires specialized technique that commands a premium at the best shops.
What to Know
HOW TO DO IT right
ALWAYS TIP 20%
Tipping is standard in tattooing. 20% is the baseline. For exceptional work or a complicated custom design, 25% is appropriate. Cash is preferred.
SHOP MINIMUMS ARE REAL
The shop minimum exists because every tattoo requires setup, sterilization, and time regardless of size. Don't try to negotiate below it.
HOURLY RATES VS. FLAT RATES
Some artists charge hourly ($150–$250/hr in Savannah), others quote flat rates for custom pieces. Both approaches are standard — ask upfront which method your artist uses.
CUSTOM WORK COSTS MORE
A flash design costs less than a fully custom piece because the design work is already done. If you want something completely original, budget for the design time.
PRICE REFLECTS SKILL
The cheapest tattoo in Savannah is not the best deal. A $100 tattoo that you regret and need to cover up costs you the cover-up plus the original. Quality is cheaper long-term.
DEPOSIT IS STANDARD
Most Savannah shops take a deposit ($50–$150) to hold your appointment. This is applied to the final cost and confirms the artist's time. It's non-refundable if you cancel last-minute.
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COMMON QUESTIONS
How much does a small tattoo cost in Savannah?
$150–$300 for a quality small piece (2–4 inches) at shops like Paris Joelle Tattoos, Savannah Ink Tattoo, or Drop Dead Tattoo. Shop minimums run $100–$150.
How much do Savannah tattoo artists charge per hour?
Quality Savannah artists charge $150–$250 per hour. The more experienced and specialized the artist, the higher the rate.
Are Savannah tattoo prices higher than average?
Savannah is in line with other mid-size Southern cities with strong tattoo scenes. Prices are slightly higher than rural areas but lower than major coastal cities like NYC or LA.
What's included in the tattoo price?
Everything needed for the session — stencil, needles, ink, gloves, aftercare wrap, and the artist's time. You tip on top of this. Follow-up touch-ups may or may not be included; ask your artist.