What Are Tattoo Prices in South Africa?
By MoneyToday Team • Dec 2025 • 7 min read
Thinking about getting inked? Tattoo prices in South Africa vary widely based on size, complexity, artist experience, and location. Whether you're budgeting for a small symbol or planning a full sleeve, this guide covers what you can expect to pay.
In 2025, hourly rates typically range from R800 to R2,000, while minimum charges start at around R500 to R700 at most reputable studios.
Pro tip: Studios in Cape Town and Sandton tend to charge 20-50% more than other areas. Junior artists or apprentices may charge 30% less, but always prioritize hygiene and quality over price.
Tattoo Prices by Size
| Size | Description | Price Range | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tiny | Single symbol, small text, minimalist design | R500 - R800 | 15-30 mins |
| Small | 5cm x 5cm or smaller, basic detail | R600 - R1,500 | 30 mins - 1 hour |
| Medium | Palm-sized, moderate detail | R1,500 - R3,500 | 1-3 hours |
| Large | Hand-sized or larger, complex detail | R3,500 - R7,000 | 3-6 hours (half day) |
| Extra Large | Full sleeve, back piece, leg sleeve | R7,000 - R20,000+ | Multiple sessions |
Prices are estimates and vary by studio, artist experience, and design complexity.
15-30 mins
30 mins - 1 hour
1-3 hours
Studio Prices Comparison
Here's what some popular South African tattoo studios charge:
| Studio | Location | Minimum | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trade Mark Tattoo Custom designs | Umhlanga, Durban | R600 | R800-R1,200 |
| Fine Line Tattoo Fine line work | Durban | R500 | R800+ |
| Salvage Tattoo Half-day sessions R3,500 | Various | R600 | R800-R1,000 |
| Ting's Tattoos Custom work | Johannesburg | R500 | R1,100 |
| Fallen Heroes Tattoo Multiple artists | Randburg, JHB | R600 | R1,000+ |
| Cape Electric Tattoo Black & grey, Japanese | Gardens, Cape Town | R700 | R1,000-R1,500 |
| Kak Lucky Tattoos Award-winning artists | Kloof St, Cape Town | R800 | R1,200-R2,000 |
What Affects Tattoo Prices?
1. Size & Placement
Larger tattoos take more time. Difficult placements (ribs, hands, feet) may cost more due to the technical challenge and pain involved.
2. Detail & Complexity
A simple outline costs less than a detailed portrait or realistic piece. Colour adds time and complexity vs black & grey.
3. Artist Experience
Renowned artists charge R1,500-R2,000/hour. Apprentices may charge R300-R600/hour. You get what you pay for – experience matters.
4. Location
Cape Town and Sandton studios charge 20-50% more than other areas due to higher overheads and demand.
5. Custom vs Flash
Custom designs cost more due to design time. Flash (pre-drawn designs) or Friday the 13th specials can save money.
6. Cover-ups
Covering an existing tattoo requires more skill, ink, and time. Expect to pay 20-50% more than a fresh tattoo of the same size.
How to Save Money on Tattoos
Book with Apprentices
Junior artists charge 30-50% less. Studios like Dragon Tattoo (CPT) offer discounted apprentice rates. Just check their portfolio first.
Look for Flash Sales
Many studios offer Friday the 13th specials (around R500), flash days, or promotional deals. Follow studios on Instagram for announcements.
Choose Flash Over Custom
Pre-drawn flash designs eliminate design time costs. Many artists have beautiful flash sheets – you might find exactly what you want.
Go Black & Grey
Colour tattoos take longer due to layering and blending. Black and grey work is typically faster and therefore cheaper.
Book Outside Major Cities
Talented artists exist outside Cape Town and Sandton. Research studios in suburban areas or smaller cities for better rates.
Deposits & Payment
Deposit Requirements
- Small tattoos: R600 deposit typical
- Large projects: R1,500+ deposit
- Deposits are usually deducted from final price
- Most deposits are non-refundable if you cancel
Payment Methods
- • Cash is often preferred
- • Many studios accept card payments
- • Some accept SnapScan/Zapper
- • Tipping (10-20%) is appreciated but not required
Tattoo Aftercare Essentials
Proper aftercare protects your investment and prevents infection. Here's what you need to know:
Do This
- Leave protective film on for 4-5 days (if used)
- Wash hands before touching tattoo
- Use unscented, water-based antibacterial cream
- Pat dry with clean paper towel
- Wear loose, cotton clothing over tattoo
- Apply sunscreen once healed (SPF 30+)
Don't Do This
- • No swimming (pool, sea, bath) for 2-4 weeks
- • No direct sun exposure while healing
- • Don't pick or scratch scabs/peeling skin
- • Avoid Vaseline, Zambuk, petroleum products
- • Don't use shared/used towels
- • Avoid tight clothing that rubs the area
Healing Timeline
- Days 1-3: Redness, swelling, oozing plasma (normal)
- Days 4-14: Peeling, itching, scabbing – don't pick!
- Weeks 2-4: Surface healed, slight cloudiness
- Month 2: Fully healed, colours settle
Top Studios by City
Cape Town
- • Kak Lucky Tattoos (Kloof St)
- • Cape Electric Tattoo (Gardens)
- • Good Things Tattoo Co (Salt River)
- • Tomb Tattoo (Gardens)
- • Hoodoo Tattoos
Expect 20-50% higher prices
Johannesburg
- • Fallen Heroes (Randburg)
- • The Crow's Nest (Melville)
- • Handstyle Tattoos (9th St)
- • Black Book Tattoos
- • Ting's Tattoos
Sandton studios charge premium
Durban
- • Trade Mark Tattoo (Umhlanga)
- • Fine Line Tattoo
- • Electric Eye Tattoo Studio
Generally more affordable
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do tattoo shops have a minimum charge?
The minimum (usually R500-R700) covers the cost of brand new single-use needles, disposables, sterile machine setup, and the artist's time. Even a tiny tattoo requires the same setup as a larger one.
Is it cheaper to get multiple tattoos in one session?
Often yes. You only pay the setup/minimum once. If you're getting multiple small tattoos, booking them together can save money versus separate appointments.
Should I tip my tattoo artist?
Tipping isn't required in South Africa but is appreciated for exceptional work. 10-20% is standard if you're happy with the result. Cash tips are preferred.
What's included in the price?
Most studios include design time (for custom), the tattoo itself, and basic aftercare instructions/products. Touch-ups within a certain period (usually 6-8 weeks) are often free or discounted.
How do I choose a good artist?
Check their portfolio on Instagram/Facebook for consistency and style match. Read reviews. Visit the studio to check cleanliness. Ask about their sterilization process. A good artist won't mind questions.
Ready for Your Next Tattoo?
Research artists, check portfolios, and book a consultation before committing. Quality tattoos are worth the investment.