The Best Tattoo Shops Nearby in Boston | Best Tattoo Shops Near Me

Featured Boston Tattoo Artists

1

Tina Tattooz - Speakeasy Tattoo Gallery

2

Bonnie Blue - Ink About it Tattoo

3

Jeudiel Condado - Boston Artist

1

Tina Tattooz - Speakeasy Tattoo Gallery

2

Bonnie Blue - Ink About it Tattoo

3

Jeudiel Condado - Boston Artist

Top 10 Tattoo Shops in Boston

  • 1
    Chameleon Tattoo & Body Piercing
    36 JFK St, Cambridge, MA 02138
    ★★★★★ 4.8 (350+ reviews)
    Harvard Square's premier tattoo studio specializing in custom designs and traditional styles.
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  • 2
    Boston Barber & Tattoo Co.
    113 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113
    ★★★★½ 4.6 (280+ reviews)
    North End's unique barbershop and tattoo studio combination. Known for traditional American styles.
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  • 3
    Ghost in the Machine
    571 Centre St, Jamaica Plain, MA 02130
    ★★★★★ 4.9 (200+ reviews)
    Custom designs and contemporary styles in a welcoming JP atmosphere.
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  • 4
    Stingray Body Art
    1 Harvard Ave, Allston, MA 02134
    ★★★★½ 4.5 (320+ reviews)
    Allston's veteran tattoo shop offering diverse styles and experienced artists.
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  • 5
    Fat Ram's Pumpkin Tattoo
    1548 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02120
    ★★★★★ 4.8 (180+ reviews)
    Mission Hill's artistic haven for custom tattoos and unique designs.
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  • 6
    Empire Tattoo
    612 Tremont St, Boston, MA 02118
    ★★★★½ 4.7 (250+ reviews)
    South End studio known for fine line work and Japanese-style tattoos.
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  • 7
    Good Faith Tattoo
    101 Salem St, Boston, MA 02113
    ★★★★½ 4.6 (190+ reviews)
    North End studio specializing in bold traditional and neo-traditional designs.
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  • 8
    Brilliance Tattoo
    957 Commonwealth Ave, Boston, MA 02215
    ★★★★★ 4.8 (160+ reviews)
    Female-owned studio known for intricate designs and watercolor styles.
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  • 9
    Regeneration Tattoo
    155 Harvard Ave, Allston, MA 02134
    ★★★★½ 4.5 (220+ reviews)
    Custom artwork and excellent cover-up work in the heart of Allston.
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  • 10
    Visible Ink Tattoo
    317 Washington St, Brighton, MA 02135
    ★★★★½ 4.4 (170+ reviews)
    Brighton's go-to shop for both traditional and contemporary tattoo styles.
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Boston Tattoo Calculator & Style Finder | Free Tattoo Planning Tool

Boston Tattoo Planning Tools

Tattoo Price Calculator

Estimated Price Range: $180 - $350

Note: This is a rough estimate for Boston area shops. Actual prices may vary based on artist experience, shop minimum charges, and specific design requirements. Many Boston shops have a minimum charge of $100-150.

Tattoo Style Finder

Based on your preferences:
Recommended Boston Artists:
  • Visit Chameleon Tattoo in Harvard Square for traditional style
  • Check out Boston Barber & Tattoo Co. in the North End
  • Try Ghost in the Machine for custom designs
Boston Tattoo Scene FAQ | Everything You Need to Know About Getting Tattooed in Boston

Boston Tattoo Scene FAQ

About Boston's Tattoo Scene

What makes Boston's tattoo scene unique?
Boston boasts a distinctive tattoo scene characterized by:
  • Strong influence of maritime and historical New England design traditions
  • High concentration of academically trained artists
  • Fusion of traditional and contemporary tattoo styles
  • Emphasis on precise, detail-oriented work
  • Significant presence of artists with fine arts backgrounds
What are the typical rates for tattoos in Boston?
Boston tattoo pricing varies by artist and complexity. Expect minimum charges of $100-180, with hourly rates ranging from $150-275. Custom pieces are typically priced by project complexity. Most reputable shops require a deposit of $50-100 when booking, especially for larger or intricate designs.

Finding the Right Shop & Artist

How do I choose the right tattoo shop in Boston?
When selecting a Boston tattoo shop, consider:
  • Review artist portfolios, especially those showcasing local or New England-inspired designs
  • Check online reviews and recommendations from local art communities
  • Verify shop cleanliness and professional certifications
  • Consider the shop's specialty and artistic approach
  • Visit multiple shops to compare styles and consultation experiences
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
Most Boston tattoo shops prioritize appointments, particularly for custom work. Popular artists often have waiting lists spanning 2-4 months. Some shops offer limited walk-in slots for smaller, simpler designs, typically on specific days of the week. It's recommended to call ahead or check the shop's social media for walk-in availability.

Local Laws & Requirements

What are Boston's tattoo regulations?
Massachusetts and Boston have strict tattoo regulations:
  • Minimum age is 18, with valid government-issued photo ID required
  • All tattoo shops must be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health
  • Artists must complete bloodborne pathogen training
  • Shops undergo regular health inspections
  • Consent forms are mandatory for all clients

Aftercare & Health

What aftercare resources are available in Boston?
Boston offers comprehensive tattoo aftercare resources:
  • Most shops provide specialized aftercare products
  • Local pharmacies stock professional tattoo healing supplies
  • Many artists offer free touch-ups within a specified period
  • Local holistic health stores offer natural healing alternatives
Local Tip: Boston's variable humidity and seasonal temperature changes can affect tattoo healing. During winter, keep your new tattoo moisturized, and in summer, protect it from excessive sun exposure.

Boston Tattoo Culture

What styles is Boston known for?
Boston tattoo artists excel in several distinctive styles:
  • Maritime and nautical-themed designs
  • Historical and architectural illustrations
  • Academic and scientifically precise blackwork
  • New England landscape and nature-inspired art
  • Contemporary minimalist designs
  • Fine line and watercolor techniques

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