If you’re searching for the best tattoo shops in the United States, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re planning your first tattoo or looking to add to a growing collection, finding the right artist and shop is essential. From coast to coast, the U.S. is home to some of the most talented tattoo artists in the world. We’ve rounded up the top 10 tattoo parlors that stand out for their artistry, cleanliness, atmosphere, and client satisfaction.
Top 10 Tattoo Shops in the United States
1. Bang Bang Tattoo – New York City, NY
Famous for tattooing celebrities like Rihanna and Justin Bieber, Bang Bang Tattoo has become an icon in the NYC tattoo scene. Known for hyper-realistic and fine-line work, this studio combines high-end aesthetics with top-tier artistry.
Specialty: Realism, fine-line
2. Shamrock Social Club – Los Angeles, CA
Located on Sunset Boulevard, Shamrock Social Club is where Hollywood goes for ink. Run by Mark Mahoney, a legend in the tattoo world, this shop is known for traditional black-and-grey portrait work.
Specialty: Black-and-grey, portrait
3. Saved Tattoo – Brooklyn, NY
Founded by the renowned Scott Campbell, Saved Tattoo combines spirituality with creativity. The shop features a rotating roster of global guest artists and is one of the most respected tattoo studios in the country.
Specialty: Custom work, illustrative, traditional
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4. Elm Street Tattoo – Dallas, TX
Co-founded by Oliver Peck, former judge of Ink Master, Elm Street Tattoo is a Dallas institution. Known for its annual Friday the 13th tattoo marathon, this shop delivers top-notch traditional tattoos.
Specialty: American traditional
5. Black Anchor – Hesperia & Los Angeles, CA
Operated by Nikko Hurtado, a master of color realism, Black Anchor is the go-to for mind-blowing portraits and hyper-realistic pieces. Nikko’s work has elevated color tattooing to a fine art.
Specialty: Color realism
6. Invisible Ink – Miami, FL
A favorite in the South Florida tattoo scene, Invisible Ink is known for its clean environment and experienced artists. Their staff excels at a variety of styles, from delicate script to bold tribal work.
Specialty: Custom tattoos, modern styles
7. Old Town Ink – Scottsdale, AZ
Made famous by Ink Master, Old Town Ink blends artistry with professionalism. The shop offers a diverse range of styles and is known for its strong customer service.
Specialty: Black-and-grey, neo-traditional
8. True Love Tattoo – Seattle, WA
With a punk-rock vibe and expert artists, True Love Tattoo has become a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest’s tattoo community. Their artists specialize in bold lines and vibrant colors.
Specialty: Neo-traditional, Japanese
9. Chicago Tattoo Company – Chicago, IL
Established in 1973, Chicago Tattoo Company is the city’s oldest licensed tattoo shop. With a rich history and a team of diverse artists, it’s a must-visit if you’re in the Midwest.
Specialty: Traditional, blackwork
10. Guru Tattoo – San Diego, CA
Located in the heart of Southern California, Guru Tattoo blends surf culture with cutting-edge tattoo art. Their skilled team covers a wide array of styles, from sacred geometry to full Japanese sleeves.
Specialty: Japanese, biomechanical, sacred geometry
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a small meaningful tattoo or a full sleeve, these top U.S. tattoo shops offer unparalleled artistry and professionalism. Before booking your session, make sure to check the artist’s portfolio, read reviews, and consult on your design. A great tattoo is not only inked on your skin but also etched into your story.
Looking for a Tattoo Near You?
If you’re searching for the “best tattoo shop near me,” consider visiting one of the top-rated shops above—or use local directories and social media to explore hidden gems in your area.
🧾 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How were these top tattoo shops in the U.S. selected?
We based our rankings on a mix of factors including artist reputation, portfolio quality, customer reviews, cleanliness, atmosphere, and industry recognition. Many of these shops are home to award-winning artists and have been featured in tattoo magazines and shows.
2. What style of tattoos do these shops specialize in?
Each shop has its own specialty. For example:
Bang Bang Tattoo – Fine-line and realism
Black Anchor – Color realism
Shamrock Social Club – Black-and-grey portrait
Elm Street Tattoo – American traditional
Visit the shop’s website or artist’s portfolio to see which style suits your vision best.
3. How much do tattoos cost at these top shops?
Prices vary depending on size, complexity, and artist demand.
Smaller tattoos may start at $100–$200
Medium-to-large custom pieces can range from $500 to several thousand dollars
Always consult directly with the artist for an accurate quote.
4. Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
Most top tattoo shops recommend appointments due to high demand. However, some offer walk-ins or host walk-in events. It’s best to call ahead or check their website or Instagram for availability.
5. Is it safe to get a tattoo at these places?
Yes. All tattoo shops listed follow strict hygiene and safety protocols, using sterilized equipment, disposable needles, and certified ink. Be sure to follow aftercare instructions to avoid complications.
6. Can I bring my own design or idea?
Absolutely! Most artists prefer collaborating with clients. Bringing a reference or concept helps guide the design process. Many of these shops specialize in custom tattoos tailored to your vision.
7. Are these shops LGBTQ+ friendly and inclusive?
Yes. Many of the tattoo studios listed are known for creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all clients, regardless of identity or background. If you’re unsure, reach out to the shop ahead of time to discuss any concerns.
8. Which cities in the U.S. are best known for tattoo culture?
Some of the biggest tattoo hubs include:
New York City, NY
Los Angeles, CA
Chicago, IL
Portland, OR
Austin, TX
San Diego, CA
These cities offer a high concentration of reputable shops and talented artists.