Opening a Tattoo Shop Costs
The cost of opening a tattoo shop can vary significantly depending on various factors, including location, licensing, equipment, renovations, and staffing. On average, you can expect to invest anywhere between $20,000 to $50,000 or more to open a tattoo shop.
Startup Costs Breakdown
- Lease Space: $2,000 – $20,000
- Shop Renovations: $5,000 – $15,000
Ongoing Costs of Running a Tattoo Shop
Running a tattoo shop involves ongoing expenses such as rent, utilities, supplies, insurance premiums, and marketing. It’s important to budget for these recurring costs to ensure the smooth operation of your business.
Steps to Start a Tattoo Shop
- Plan your business.
- Form a legal entity.
- Register for taxes.
- Open a business bank account & credit card.
- Set up business accounting.
- Obtain necessary permits and licenses.
- Get business insurance.
- Define your brand.
Profitability and Revenue
Average revenues per tattoo studio are estimated at $241,000, and the typical tattoo artist earns $50,000/year. In large metro areas, shops with 5 or 6 artists renting space can generate $500,000 or more per year in receipts.
Cost of Starting a Tattoo Parlor
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.
Additional Information
- Rates in San Diego typically range from $150-$200/hr, with a tattoo minimum of $80.
- Opening a tattoo shop isn’t going to be easy, but you can do it with the right tools.
- Register with local authorities and get a license to open a tattoo shop in the UK. Authorities inspect premises for health and safety compliance, so ensure high hygiene standards.
- Consider apprenticeships for hands-on learning before owning a tattoo studio. Apprenticeships typically take 1-2 years at a cost of around $5,000 per year.