John PerryFinding the right artist for your body art is a massive decision, especially in a city bursting with creative talent. If you’re hunting for the best tattoo studios in Philadelphia, I know the options can feel overwhelming.
Many first-time clients and seasoned collectors actually struggle to narrow down studios that match their specific aesthetic and hygiene standards. Luckily, I’ve sifted through local favorites to help you navigate the vibrant local scene.
Below, you’ll find shops that cater to intricate cover-ups, bold traditional pieces, and everything in between, so read on!
How much do tattoos cost in Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, tattoo costs usually start at a shop’s minimum of $100 to $250, which covers setup and time for even the smallest designs.
For larger or more complex custom work, most local artists charge hourly rates ranging from $150 to $300, while elite or high-demand specialists can command $500+ per hour or daily flat rates.
| Tattoo Size and Type | Estimated Cost |
| Shop Minimum (Small/Quick) | $100 to $250 |
| Small/Simple (Under 2″) | $75 to $150 |
| Medium (4 to 6″) | $300 to $600+ |
| Large (6″+/Full Day) | $500 to $1,500+ |
1. 187 INK TATTOO
Website: 187inktattoos.com
Address: 1930 N 2nd St
Contact: (215) 995-5900
Hours: Daily 12:00PM to 9:00PM
Stepping into 187 Ink Tattoo, I immediately noticed their heavy emphasis on collaborative design, ensuring you never walk away with a carbon-copy flash piece.
I actually went here for a consultation last year and appreciated how closely the artists work with clients to bring unique concepts to life. Their resident artists handle a wide variety of aesthetics, smoothly transitioning from geometric patterns to detailed realism.
They maintain a pristine environment, too, prioritizing your health through advanced sterilization techniques.
If you’re looking to book personal trainers in Philadelphia, you might want to schedule that around your healing time, as the artists here can execute some serious, large-scale work.
I’m just iffy about their online booking system, which requires you to enter extensive details upfront and restricts uploads of reference files.
Customer Reviews
Mike brought my sentimental concept to life
Mike was great. I was getting a very sentimental tattoo. He did a great job with bringing my concept to life. Had no problem with editing the design as many times as I asked. On the day of my appointment he was on time and the shop is clean. The tattoo didn’t even hurt. I would definitely recommend. 10/10…
- Teresa M | Google Reviews
Professional, clean, patient, and detail-oriented experience
10/10 experience. Super professional, clean, and patient. They really took their time and made sure every detail was perfect. The energy was great and I felt comfortable the whole time. I’m obsessed with my tattoo and will 100% be back.
- Janiyah Assadiq | Google Reviews
2. No Ka Oi Tiki Tattoo
Website: nokaoitikitattoo.com
Address: 610 S 4th St
Contact: 215-925-1766
Hours: Monday to Thursday, Sunday 12:00PM to 10:00PM | Friday to Saturday 12:00PM to 12:00AM
The atmosphere inside No KA Oi Tiki Tattoo offers an immediate escape from the busy urban streets outside.
The studio operates on a distinct philosophy that marries city energy with traditional Hawaiian values, making it the first establishment in town dedicated to high-end Polynesian body art.
You also get access to an impressive global network here, as they regularly host a high volume of visiting international artists.
Plus, finding talent capable of handling both small details and massive back pieces is easy thanks to their diverse staff. Spontaneous visits are also welcome, which is perfect for walk-ins seeking spur-of-the-moment ink.
On the downside, their strict minimum pricing policy makes very tiny designs surprisingly expensive compared to standard street shops.
Customer Reviews
Best piercing and first tattoo experience
I got my earlobes re-pierced and I got my first tattoo. The piercing was the best piercing experience I’ve ever had. I highly recommend them over the mall experience with the gun. It was sooo much less painful. The tattoo was wonderful also. I got a small blue semicolon butterfly on my upper arm. Very little pain and it looks great! Lazy has the driest sense of humor, which made the experience even better.
- Amy Singh | Google Reviews
Gerardo is a treasure, executes my vision perfectly
10/10 experience every time I visit the shop. First off the vibes in there are always great, and it is always super clean. The shop has to have some of the nicest front desk people of any tattoo place I’ve ever been to. My artist, Gerardo, is the real treasure though. He is amazing at what he does and always execute my vision perfectly. It’s ridiculously impressive honestly. He has mastered so many different styles of tattoos, so whatever you’re looking to get done you can definitely trust him to tattoo it flawlessly.
- Mariam ghobrial | Google Reviews
3. Philadelphia Eddie’s Tattoo
Website: phillyeddiestattoo.com
Address: 621 S 4th St
Contact: 215-922-7384
Hours: Wednesday to Friday 3:30PM to 9:00PM | Saturday to Sunday 12:30PM to 9:00PM
Carrying on the legacy of a renowned historic founder, Philadelphia Eddie’s Tattoo shop delivers an authentic, old-school experience.
The staff here is fully prepared to tackle highly personalized requests alongside their classic flash options. After your session, you might even consider visiting top aesthetic clinics in Philadelphia to maintain your skin’s overall health and vibrancy over the years.
A buddy of mine got a traditional eagle here recently and raved about the artist’s dedication to historically accurate application methods.
I also appreciate their clever booking form, which uses everyday sports equipment sizes to help you easily estimate your desired dimensions.
Just be aware of their strict financial policies before committing. For instance, they refuse all refunds on pre-purchased vouchers, and those credits cannot be transferred to other historic locations bearing the exact same name.
Customer Reviews
Multiple beautiful tattoos over ten years
The first picture tattoo was done 10 years go 2009 then the rest were done in 2018-2019(in one year) my recent one was the last picture(the cross) they are the best I enjoy going there beautiful experience. Both Men are great tattoo artist n both of them have done my tattoos n great job. I love them n will recommend them because if is what you like they will make you get what u want.
- Brenda Minnick (Bebe) | Google Reviews
Seamless process for my first walk-in tattoo
Came into the shop as a walk-in after calling the night before and talking with Frank. Being from out of town and this being my first tattoo, both him and the staff made the process seamless. Not only was he able to deliver a great piece, he is also a very personable guy with a lot of experience. At no point did I feel pressured into getting something done, nor was I rushed into making a decision. I’ll definitely be back! The picture was taken within 24 hours of completion.
- Derek Straka | Google Reviews
4. FLOATING WORLD TATTOOS AND BODY PIERCING
Website: floatingworldtattoos.com
Address: 1729 South St
Contact: (267) 764-3238
Hours: Daily 12:00PM to 10:00PM
Deeply entrenched in the local neighborhood, Floating World Tattoos houses talent that bridges the gap between traditional walk-in culture and bespoke artistry.
You can spot signature visual accents in their work, with artists adding techniques that mimic a glittery finish to neotraditional color pieces.
They also actively cultivate a welcoming space for marginalized communities, led by Ricky Star, a queer resident artist.
Choosing a veteran like Ozzie Perez, who has been tattooing in South Philly since 2005, guarantees a high level of technical proficiency, along with a flexible design process.
Unfortunately, securing a spot for a small piece can be quite difficult because many high-demand artists prioritize large, multi-session projects. They prefer taking on extensive pieces that give them the opportunity to freehand their original artwork.
Customer Reviews
Evan did an amazing cover up walk-in
Had an amazing experience with Evan. I was a walk in and came in to cover up a stick and poke tattoo I got in high school. I had no reference images but Evan was able to cook up just what I was looking for. It was my first tattoo and I had so much fun. Evan made a beautiful apple on my wrist, you can’t tell at all that it’s a cover up. He was amazing and I will definitely be back and recommend him to all of my friends!!!!! He’s incredibly talented, kind, and knowledgeable.
- Emma Apple | Google Reviews
Amazing artists and unique surrealist eye art
The artists here are amazing!
I got matching surrealist eyes from Evan. His art style is super unique and so so cool. I came in to the consultation without any reference images and he was able to bring my idea to life in the best possible way. The eyes are extremely well done and I am obsessed with them.
My roommate came in with me and got a really cool walk-in tattoo from Mo that turned out so cute!
The whole experience was so incredibly fun and we will absolutely be coming back soon.
- Jade Gourley | Google Reviews
5. SEVEN SWORDS TATTOO COMPANY
Website: sevenswordstattoocompany.com
Address: 2580 Frankford Ave
Contact: (267) 319-1910
Hours: Sunday to Thursday 12:00PM to 6:00PM | Friday to Saturday 12:00PM to 8:00PM
Founded by a highly experienced industry veteran, Seven Words Tattoo Company provides a deeply refined, narrative-driven approach to classic ink.
Every member of this hand-picked team exhibits precise execution and an incredible attention to detail when developing tailored, made-to-order concepts. The artists focus on masterful traditional work, prioritizing lasting pieces that age beautifully.
When you visit, you can expect a relaxed, hygienic setting that naturally minimizes the usual anxiety associated with getting a new tattoo.
Planning a session requires some foresight, as you must contact them in advance to verify walk-in availability.
Their operating hours are also quite limited. They shut down early during the week, potentially clashing with standard evening availability for working clients.
Customer Reviews
James Padlet did an outstanding, better than imagined job
My artist, James Padlet, did an outstanding job on my tattoo. He took the time to listen to what I wanted, gave helpful suggestions, and made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole process. The final result was even better than I imagined!
I definitely recommend Seven Swords Tattoo Company and James if you’re looking for talented artists and a great overall experience. I’ll 100% be coming back for my next one.
- Charles Murray | Google Reviews
Highly satisfied with my meaningful handwriting tattoo
Seven Swords is 100% worth it. I got my second tattoo done by Joseph and he was an amazing artist to work with. Everyone else in the studio was also very welcoming and kind! Joseph gave me options for sizing, took his time with placement and made sure I was comfortable. I am highly satisfied with how my tattoo of my dad’s handwriting turned out and it means a lot to me. I can’t wait to come back again soon!
- Alexi Brunner | Google Reviews
