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Best Tattoo Shops inHouston

Houston's tattoo scene is a vibrant reflection of the city's diverse culture, offering a wide array of styles from traditional Americana to hyper-realistic portraits. Known for its welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, Houston attracts tattoo enthusiasts from all walks of life. The city boasts numerous talented artists and studios, especially in areas like Montrose, known for its eclectic spirit and artistic flair. Houston's tattoo culture is a unique and important part of the city’s identity.

Updated: 2025-05-08
4 verified shops
Speaks: English, Spanish, Other languages depending on the specific artists and shops, reflecting Houston's diverse population
Houston cityscape

City Heritage & Tattoo Culture

The Rich History of Tattoo Art in Houston

The history of tattooing in Houston can be traced back to the influx of immigrants from different parts of the world. In the early days, tattooing was primarily practiced by sailors and military personnel who passed through the city’s ports. In the 1970s and 1980s, tattoo shops began popping up throughout the city, offering a wider range of designs and styles. Tejano culture has significantly shaped Houston's tattooing traditions, incorporating symbols like sugar skulls and religious icons.

Tattoo Price Guide in Houston

Typical cost estimates for tattoos in Houston. Prices vary based on artist, studio, size, and complexity.

Small Tattoo

$80-200

Simple designs, < 2 inches

Medium Tattoo

$250-500

Detailed, 2-5 inches

Large Tattoo

$400-1000+

Complex, 5+ inches

Full Sleeve

Prices vary depending on the design

Multi-session project

Hourly Rate

$120-200

For custom/large work

Explore Houston's Top Studios

Quickly jump to the details of each featured shop below.

Kingdom Tattoo

5(767 reviews)
Fine Line
Realistic Tattoo
Japanese Tattoo
Floral Tattoo
Anime Tattoo
€€

Kingdom Tattoo is a full-service tattoo shop located in Houston, TX. They offer a safe, clean, and sterile environment for their clients. Kingdom Tattoo stays on top of industry trends, ensuring artists are trained in the latest techniques and products and welcomes tattoo requests of all sizes. They focus on 5-star customer service.

Location & Hours

2395 S Texas 6, Houston, TX 77077, USA

Opening Hours

Monday11:00–20:00
Tuesday11:00–20:00
Wednesday11:00–20:00
Thursday11:00–20:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday11:00–19:00

Featured Reviews

Kelsey Reynolds
5.0

Excellent place to get tattoos. The environment is incredibly sterile. The experience is amazing. The customer service is amazing. Nathania and crew took such amazing care of us, especially my wife since it was her first tattoo. We will definitely be coming back!

Jan 20, 2025
Catherine Wilson
5.0

Went to Dragon today for my biggest tattoo yet, along with covering one I got previously, and he did an absolutely amazing job! I cannot recommend him enough. My friend that came to sit with me today is already looking to schedule hers with him next!

Feb 22, 2025

Destroy Ink Tattoo

5(302 reviews)
Custom Designs
(Based on reviews and shop description, specific styles cannot be confidently determined. Therefore, listing 'Custom Designs' as a general offering.)
€€

Destroy Ink Tattoo, located in Houston, TX, is a professional tattoo service provider committed to providing customers with high-quality tattoo design and implementation. Their team of experienced tattoo artists offer personalized tattoo design solutions based on customer needs and preferences. They focus on every detail, from material selection and disinfection to design and implementation, adhering to the highest standards.

Location & Hours

1417 Richmond Ave. Suite A, Houston, TX 77006, USA

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–20:00
Tuesday12:00–20:00
Wednesday12:00–20:00
Thursday12:00–20:00
Friday12:00–22:00
Saturday12:00–22:00
Sunday12:00–20:00

Featured Reviews

Rosealeigh S
5.0

Communication is key. Ashleigh was diligent and her attention to detail was awesome. She gave me a fresh, clean piece of work and performed to the full standards of what I expected. The shop is clean and welcoming and organized. Tattoo’s should never stress you out, and I definitely felt comfortable and confident in my artist ability to perform. See y'all soon. Thanks for your time Ashleigh!

Jan 5, 2025
Rita Jin
5.0

I love Kai🫶🏻🫶🏻 An Unforgettable Experience at Destroy Ink Tattoo!** I recently visited Kai for my first tattoo and was absolutely blown away by the entire experience. From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel welcome and at ease. The artists here are not only insanely talented but also deeply passionate about their craft. They took the time to listen to my ideas, offered creative suggestions to refine the design, and explained every step of the process with patience. What truly stood out was their attention to detail and commitment to hygiene—everything from the sterilized equipment to the clean, modern studio reassured me I was in safe hands. My tattoo turned out even better than I imagined, and I’ve received countless compliments on it! If you’re looking for a place that combines artistry, professionalism, and a warm atmosphere, Destroy Ink is the spot. Huge thanks to the team for making my tattoo journey so memorable. I’ll definitely be back for my next piece!

Feb 16, 2025
A girl in a tattoo studio

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It Always Hurts Tattoo

5(293 reviews)
Fine Line
Black and Grey
American Traditional
Illustrative
Custom Designs
€€

It Always Hurts Tattoo, located in Downtown Houston at 214 Travis St, was established in 2021. The studio aims to create a unique and intentional experience, honoring the sacred origins of tattooing. The studio houses a team of talented artists from across the city, welcoming clients from all walks of life.

Location & Hours

214 Travis St, Houston, TX 77002, USA

Opening Hours

MondayClosed
Tuesday12:00–19:00
Wednesday12:00–19:00
Thursday12:00–19:00
Friday11:00–20:00
Saturday11:00–20:00
Sunday11:00–17:00

Featured Reviews

Chelsey McDaniel
5.0

Me and my sister came into town to visit and knew we wanted to get a tattoo while there. I made an appointment with Kayla and she was amazing. She got back to me when requesting very quickly and answered all my questions that I had beforehand. When getting there I was hesitant on getting what I wanted and she made the process so smooth and made me not feel pressured or rushed which helped me decide. She also was so sweet and worked my sister in without an appointment so she could get one! She was the sweetest and full of talent. One of the best artist I have met. Love this place!

Apr 26, 2025
SummerVarley
5.0

My friend and I walked in here based on recommendation without appointments and the artists were more than kind in accommodating us. I see why this shop was recommended based on first impression alone, and then Kayla did my actual tattoo for me and she was very sweet, precise, and made a new client in me! Can't wait to come back.

Jan 11, 2025

Painstaking Art Tattoo Shop & Piercing

5(153 reviews)
Custom Designs
Walk-ins
Expert Body Piercing
€€

Painstaking Art Tattoo Shop & Piercing, located at 5906 Canal St in Houston, is a modern tattoo parlor known for its professional artists and custom designs. The shop aims to provide a unique experience in a beautiful and inspiring space. Painstaking Art Tattoo selects artists who continuously work to better their craft and appreciate the art of tattooing. They also have an APP member on-site for expert body piercing with the highest safety standards.

Location & Hours

5906 Canal St, Houston, TX 77011, USA

Opening Hours

MondayClosed
Tuesday12:00–20:00
Wednesday12:00–20:00
Thursday12:00–20:00
Friday12:00–20:00
Saturday12:00–20:00
SundayClosed

Featured Reviews

Jarred Pruitt
5.0

This shop was amazing. To begin, they have some parking, which is rare and much appreciated. Gotta say, it’s probably the best decorated shop I have been. The space is warm colored and it features multiple interesting antique pieces and taxidermy mounts. It’s just overall of warm and kind of comfortable space. Tracy (the owner) was receptive and answered all my questions. Neil did my piece and I couldn’t be happier. Great shop, great vibes, don’t miss it!

Feb 8, 2025
Justin Pope
5.0

One of the best shops in Houston! First thing I noticed was the interior of the shop, it's a very cool atmosphere. All the artists are extremely welcoming and talented to boot. I can't recommend this place enough.

Feb 23, 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about getting tattooed in Houston

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Optimal Visiting Period

The best time to get a tattoo in Houston is during the spring or fall. The weather is mild, which is ideal for tattoo healing, as extreme heat and humidity can cause sweating and potential complications. These seasons also avoid the peak tourist seasons, potentially making it easier to book appointments.

Plan your trip during this time for the best experience, considering weather, local events, and artist availability.

Trending Tattoo Styles in Houston

Discover the most sought-after tattoo aesthetics currently popular in Houston.

American Traditional

Blackwork

Fine Line

Japanese

Realism

Tribal