How Much Do Tattoos Cost in Canada (Different Area + Type Guide)

The first step in planning for a tattoo is budgeting for how much it costs. Tattooing has seen a major transformation in the past few years, with access to high-tech needles, specialized ink and highly trained tattooists.

And while this transformation may mean satisfaction with the results of your new tattoo, it does come at a cost. Tattoos have become incredibly diverse in terms of design and style, which also affects their pricing.

And this comprehensive guide, we will explore the factors that influence tattoo prices in Canada and provide you with an average cost estimation. Additionally, we’ll delve into how much tattoos cost in different parts of Canada and the average cost ranges for various types of tattoos.

By the end of this blog, you’ll better understand what to expect and how to plan for your desired tattoo.

Factors Influencing Tattoo Pricing in Canada

Expect to spend between $200-$400 on a small-sized tattoo in Canada. Here are the factors that determine average tattoo prices.

The Artist

The skills, experience, and reputation of the tattoo artist play a significant role in determining the cost of a tattoo. Highly skilled and renowned artists may charge higher rates, but finding an artist who provides quality work at reasonable costs is crucial.

The Size

Tattoo artists typically charge based on the time it takes to complete the work and their standard fees. Larger tattoos require more time, so if you’re on a budget, consider opting for smaller designs.

The Colour

Tattoos with multiple colours generally cost more than single-colour tattoos due to the additional detailing and time required. Complex and intricate designs with many colours will increase the overall cost.

The cost is primarily due to the additional time, effort, and resources required to create intricate multicoloured tattoo designs.

Here’s a more detailed description of how colour affects the cost of a tattoo in

Time and Detailing: Multicolored tattoos involve more detailed work. A professional tattoo artist must apply each colour precisely to create a visually appealing and coherent design. Shading, blending, and layering different colours can be time-consuming, directly affecting tattoo costs in Canada.
Ink Usage: Creating multicoloured tattoos requires a higher quantity of ink compared to single-colour tattoos. Average tattoo prices increase with more colours since they must be mixed and applied in specific areas, increasing the overall material cost.
Artist Skill Level: To achieve the best results with multicoloured tattoos, a skilled and experienced artist is required. Highly skilled tattoo artists in Canada may charge higher rates due to their expertise in handling complex designs.

Placement

The location on your body where you want the tattoo inked can influence the cost. Sensitive areas like hands, feet, neck, and genitalia are usually more expensive than less sensitive areas.

Tattoo Design

The complexity and intricacy of the design will affect the overall cost. Highly detailed and intricate tattoos will require more time and effort, leading to higher prices.

Average Cost of Tattoos in Canada

The cost of tattoos can vary significantly depending on the factors mentioned above and the region in Canada. While it’s difficult to provide exact figures due to the subjective nature of pricing, we can provide some general estimations:

Smaller tattoos (approximately 2×2 inches) may cost around $50 to $250.
Medium-sized tattoos (such as a tribal or portrait) can range from $150 to $450.
Large tattoos, like half or full sleeves, might start at $500 and can go up to $4,000 for a full back or custom design.

Average Tattoo Prices in Different Parts of Canada

The cost of tattoos can vary slightly depending on the specific area within Canada. As of 2023, here’s an overview of average tattoo prices in some major cities:

Toronto: In Toronto, the average cost for a quality medium-to-large tattoo is between $175 to $190 per hour, with a $100 minimum for smaller tattoos.
British Columbia: The average cost for a tattoo in British Columbia, including cities like Vancouver, can range from $175 to $190 per hour for a quality medium-to-large tattoo. Smaller tattoos are typically priced by the piece, with a minimum cost of around $100.
Greater Toronto Area: Tattoo prices in the Greater Toronto Area can vary depending on the artist’s size, complexity, and experience. On average, small tattoos cost between $50 to $250, while medium-sized tattoos like a tribal or portrait may range from $150 to $450.
Montreal: The average cost of tattoos in Montreal follows similar trends as in other areas of Canada. Small tattoos may range from $50 to $250, medium-sized tattoos from $150 to $450, and larger tattoos starting at $500 and going up to $4,000 for a full back or custom design.
Ottawa: The pricing for tattoos in Ottawa is consistent with the national average. Small tattoos can range from $50 to $250, medium-sized tattoos from $150 to $450, and larger tattoos start at $500 and can go up to $4,000 for more elaborate designs.

Additional Factors to Consider When Budgeting for a Tattoo

Tattoo pricing in Toronto isn’t limited to the tattoo drawing itself. Any budget for a new tattoo in Toronto must consider the following talking points:

Consultations: Some tattoo artists may charge a consultation fee to discuss your design and ideas before booking the tattoo session.
Design Customization: If you have a unique or intricate design in mind, there may be additional charges for the artist’s time and effort to create a custom piece.
Aftercare: Proper aftercare is essential for tattoo healing. Budget for any recommended aftercare products like tattoo ointments or lotions.

In the End

Getting a tattoo is an exciting experience, but being well-informed about the cost implications is essential. Average tattoo prices in Toronto range from $200-$1,000. You can plan and budget by understanding the factors that influence tattoo pricing in Canada.

And while it’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, investing in a skilled and experienced tattoo artist is crucial for a lasting and beautiful piece of art on your skin.

Whether you’re in Toronto or any other part of Canada, take your time to research local tattoo artists, read reviews, and schedule consultations to find the perfect artist who can bring your tattoo vision to life.

Our tattoo artists at Piranha Studio start by listening to your design inspo before providing a commensurate expense list to help you plan for the cost of a new tattoo.

Remember, a tattoo is a lifelong commitment, so choose wisely, and enjoy the process of creating meaningful body art that reflects your personality and style. Happy tattooing!