What's a tattoo artist's annual income? Is it lucrative? We reveal the real salary situation!

For those aspiring to become tattoo artists, many may wonder whether the profession holds financial promise or if reality is harsh.

Tattooing is an industry with an extremely wide income range — apprentices often earn almost nothing, while top artists can make over ¥10 million a year.

In this article, we’ll clearly explain the average annual income of tattoo artists, salary expectations at each career stage, the main factors that influence income, and practical strategies to increase earnings.

Average Annual Income of Tattoo Artists

Although it’s difficult to give an exact figure, the average annual income of tattoo artists is said to be around ¥3–5 million.

However, this number includes both beginners and veterans, and income varies greatly depending on experience and reputation.

It’s not uncommon for apprentices just starting out to earn almost nothing, but those who refine their technique, build trust with clients, and gain popularity can earn more than ¥10 million a year.

Average Income of Apprentices

At many tattoo studios, apprentices are effectively unpaid during their training period, with transportation costs sometimes being the only compensation.

After completing their apprenticeship and starting to work with test clients on small tattoos, they might earn around ¥50,000–¥100,000 per month.

After about three years, as they start taking on simple tattoos independently, income might rise to around ¥100,000–¥200,000 per month — still a modest amount overall.

Average Income of Studio-Based Tattoo Artists

For artists working within a studio, income is typically commission-based.

As a general rule, tattoo artists receive around 50% of the service fee.

That means if a tattoo costs ¥30,000, the artist’s share would be about ¥15,000.

While studio artists can leverage the studio’s brand and customer base, they also have to give up part of their revenue, unlike freelancers who keep most of their earnings.

A beginner might earn around ¥1.5–3 million per year, while mid-level artists with solid technique and loyal clients can make ¥4–7 million annually.

Still, working at a studio doesn’t come with a guaranteed monthly salary — income depends entirely on skill and ability to attract clients.

Average Income of Independent Tattoo Artists

Independent tattoo artists who run their own studios have the highest income potential.

Since all the revenue from their work goes directly to them, those who operate efficiently from a private or rented space can retain more profit.

For highly sought-after artists, a single session can cost over ¥100,000, making annual earnings of over ¥10 million a realistic goal.

However, being independent also means covering all expenses — rent, utilities, needles, ink, and equipment.

Even with high revenue, true profit depends on careful cost management, so business skills are just as important as artistry.

Factors That Determine a Tattoo Artist’s Income

Why do earnings vary so widely among tattoo artists?

Let’s explore the key factors that impact income.

Skill Level and Experience

The most critical factor is skill.

Clients are extremely selective because tattoos are permanent, so exceptional technique and artistry are essential.

Since tattooing often leads to repeat clients, ensuring high satisfaction is also crucial.

Consistent practice and steady skill improvement are the shortest path toward stable income.

Social Media Influence

In recent years, social media presence and marketing ability have heavily influenced tattoo artists’ earnings.

Artists frequently use Instagram or TikTok to showcase their work and attract clients nationwide.

Because tattoo artists can sometimes appear intimidating, sharing behind-the-scenes moments or personal aspects online helps build trust with potential clients.

Location

Tattoo clients are concentrated in urban areas, so artists in big cities like Tokyo or Osaka tend to have more clients and higher pricing compared to rural areas.

In contrast, artists based in regions with fewer tattoo enthusiasts often struggle to grow their income.

Some artists expand internationally, guesting at tattoo conventions or collaborating with overseas studios for periodic work trips.

How to Increase Tattoo Artist Income

Even after becoming independent, there are several methods to further boost income.

Rather than simply doing more sessions, it’s important to take strategic approaches that highlight personal strengths.

Establish a Unique Style

There are many tattoo genres — Japanese Irezumi, realism, tribal, and more — but artists who become synonymous with one style attract more clients.

Mastery in a specific field draws customers from far away who seek that unique specialty.

Once an artist’s design sense and creative world are recognized, they can also raise their session prices more easily.

Create Additional Income Streams

Many successful tattoo artists have multiple sources of income beyond tattooing itself.

Examples include selling apparel featuring their designs, earning sponsorships, and selling tattoo flash sheets.

Some artists are also invited as guest artists overseas and receive significant pay.

Those who can expand their work beyond tattooing can diversify and significantly grow their total income.

Continue Skill Improvement

Consistent technical growth over time is key to boosting long-term earnings.

Because tattoos are permanent, artists devote countless hours to practice.

Keeping up with trends and learning new techniques is vital, and even experienced artists must maintain a lifelong learning attitude.

Improved quality leads to greater client satisfaction, creating positive word-of-mouth and attracting new clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tattoo Artist Income

Here are answers to common questions about tattoo artists’ earnings.

Do apprentices get paid?

In most cases, apprentices are unpaid.

They often need part-time jobs or other income sources to support themselves during training.

Their main responsibilities include cleaning the studio, preparing tools, and practicing drawing and design.

This period should be seen as training to gain experience rather than a time to earn money.

Can you become a tattoo artist in your 30s?

Yes, it’s possible to become a tattoo artist even in your 30s or 40s.

Many people switch careers at this stage to pursue tattooing.

There are no strict age limits — you can start at any age as long as you’re dedicated.

However, minors require parental consent, and most studios or schools only accept trainees aged 18 or older.

Can you do tattooing as a side job?

Yes, tattooing can be done part-time or as a side job.

Some people work full-time jobs while tattooing from home on weekends, or freelance as tattoo artists alongside another profession.

However, it’s not something that can be started casually.

Tattooing involves lengthy preparation, consultations, and session times for each client — and carries significant responsibility since tattoos are permanent.

Even as a side job, one must approach the craft with full professionalism.

Summary: Tattoo Artist Income

A tattoo artist’s annual income varies greatly depending on skill level and experience.

On average, most earn around ¥3–5 million per year, but newcomers often face financial challenges in the early stages.

Once established and recognized, however, making over ¥10 million annually becomes a realistic goal.

To succeed in this field, one must develop outstanding technical skill, artistic vision, a clear personal style, strong self-promotion, and a relentless commitment to growth.

Beyond money, tattooing offers profound fulfillment — your work becomes a lasting part of someone’s life.