Top Tattoo Shops in Austin (2025 guide)
A GUIDE TO THE BEST TATTOO SHOPS IN AUSTIN
New to Austin? Looking for a quality tattoo shop for your next piece?
Austin is home to some of the best tattoo shops in Texas, with well-known tattoo studios and highly rated Austin tattoo artists specializing in blackwork, realism, fine-line, surrealism, traditional, and fully custom designs. That being said- this can make finding a good tattoo shop extremely overwhelming with the ever-growing influx of skilled artists into Texas’ capital.
So we mapped out the highest-ranking tattoo shops in Austin so that you don’t have to.
Whether you’re searching for the best tattoo shops in Austin, the top tattoo artists in the city, or trusted Austin tattoo studios known for clean line work and consistent results, this guide is meant to highlight the best tattoo shops this great city has to offer. These are the tattoo shops Austin locals recommend, the studios with strong portfolios, and the artists recognized for quality, creativity, and exceptional client experience.
Here’s our roundup of the top tattoo shops in Austin for 2025.
1. Black Crown Studios
A modern, design-forward tattoo studio in South Austin that blends creativity with professionalism. Black Crown Studios is home to a collective of artists known for their precision and range-from bold blackwork and realism to refined black & grey pieces and experimental custom designs. The space has a clean, minimal aesthetic and a calm, appointment-first atmosphere that makes every session feel focused and personal. Notable resident artists like A.B. Garza and Johny Vasquez bring a distinct mix of realism and blackwork influences that perfectly capture the studio’s style. Explore the full artist lineup and recent work through the Black Crown Studios gallery.
2. Familiar Tattoo
A relaxed studio with a collaborative feel and thoughtful custom work. Cyril’s pieces show careful line control and balanced compositions, ideal for clients who want clean design with a personal twist.
3. Bougie Bougie Tattoo Studio
A private, appointment-only space that keeps sessions calm and focused. Sam is known for steady detail work and considerate pacing, making it easy for first-timers to feel comfortable.
4. The Serpent Tattoo ATX
Modern, design-driven tattoos with a clear illustrative flair. Rachel brings strong shapes and confident shading, giving each piece a crisp, intentional look.
5. Ancient Ink Tattoo
A classic neighborhood shop with an experienced crew and no-rush consultations. Alex blends solid fundamentals with subtle texture—great for pieces meant to age well.
6. Electric 13 Tattoo
Long-running studio with a big, energetic team and a wide range of styles. Annabelle’s work has bold structure and tidy color choices that read well from any distance.
7. Bluebonnet Tattoo
Friendly, approachable studio with an emphasis on comfort and clear aftercare. Ty favors soft linework and gentle gradients for pieces that feel understated and wearable.
8. Electric Siren
Sleek, modern space with a polished presentation and careful planning. Joey’s tattoos balance contrast and flow, with layouts that sit naturally on the body.
9. Kattitude Tattoo
Artist-led studio with a playful, graphic edge. Kat’s designs lean expressive and confident—clean outlines, strong silhouettes, and just enough detail to keep things interesting.
10. The Inkery
Quiet, focused environment that’s great for longer sessions. Scott pairs steady technical work with practical design choices so pieces heal clean and stay readable.
How we built this list
This guide was created by reviewing artist portfolios, client feedback, studio cleanliness, consistency of work, and the overall booking experience. Each shop on this list offers something a little different, and the rankings reflect a mix of quality, reputation, and real client experiences.
You can read more about how we evaluate tattoo studios on our full methodology page.
How to choose the right tattoo shop
Finding the right studio usually comes down to the style you want, the artist you connect with, and how comfortable you feel during the process. Some people prefer a quiet, private space, while others like the energy of a bigger shop. Take your time looking through portfolios and don’t be afraid to ask questions before booking.
Common Tattoo Styles Around Austin
Austin has a wide mix of tattoo styles, from bold traditional pieces to softer fine-line work. You’ll also see a lot of black-and-grey, floral designs, and custom illustrative tattoos depending on the artist. No single shop does everything, so it’s worth browsing different portfolios to see which style feels closest to what you want.
If you want a quick overview of different styles, you can browse our tattoo styles page here.
Before You Book
Most studios in Austin book out at different speeds, so it helps to check artist availability early. Look through recent healed work, read through each shop’s booking notes, and make sure the artist’s style matches what you’re going for. If you’re new to the city, don’t hesitate to send a message or ask for a quick consult—artists generally appreciate clear communication.
Wherever you end up going, take your time, trust the process, and choose the studio that feels right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do tattoos cost in Austin?
Prices vary by artist, size, and style, but most shops charge hourly and will give a rough estimate during the consult.
Do I need an appointment or can I walk in?
Many studios book ahead, while a few offer walk-ins when artists are available. Checking ahead saves you time.
How should I prepare for a tattoo session?
Eat beforehand, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and bring any references you want to share with your artist.
Is tipping expected?
Tipping isn’t required, but most clients tip as a way to thank the artist for their time and effort.
How long does a tattoo take to heal?
Healing times vary, but most pieces take around 2–4 weeks with proper aftercare..
If you have a question or want to recommend another studio, feel free to reach out here.