Updated Costs for Popular Body Piercings (July 2025)
Last Updated on July 23, 2025
Curious about how much a new piercing will cost? This guide breaks down average pricing for common body piercings in the U.S. as of mid-2025. It also covers what factors affect cost and what to expect beyond just the piercing fee.
Earlobe and Cartilage Piercing Costs
- Single earlobe: $30–85 depending on location and studio
- Both lobes: $60–120
- Cartilage (helix, tragus, conch, etc.): $45–95
- Industrial (barbell across two piercings): $70–110
Studios often include basic starter jewelry, but not always. Always ask if jewelry is part of the total.
Nose and Facial Piercing Costs
- Nostril: $50–100
- Septum: $60–110
- Eyebrow: $45–90
- Lip (labret, Monroe, Medusa): $50–100
- Bridge (across the nose): $70–120
Nose and lip piercings may require curved or custom-length jewelry, which can affect the total price.
Tongue and Oral Piercing Costs
- Tongue: $50–80
- Smiley or frenulum: $60–90
- Venom (double tongue): $100–150
Studios may recommend titanium for oral piercings because it’s less reactive and easier to heal.
Navel and Surface Piercing Costs
- Belly button: $60–120
- Surface piercings (hips, collarbone, etc.): $70–130
- Dermal anchors: $65–110 each
Prices usually include starter jewelry but not specialty designs or implant-grade upgrades.
Nipple Piercing Costs
- Single nipple: $50–80
- Both nipples: $90–140
Studios may offer a small discount for getting both done at the same time.
Genital Piercing Costs
- Most genital piercings: $90–160+
- Highly technical piercings: $150–250+
- Pricing varies significantly by anatomy and studio policy. It’s best to call ahead for a consult.
Studios often require consultations for genital piercings, and some piercers specialize in only certain types.
What Affects the Price of a Piercing?
- Location: Prices are typically higher in large cities.
- Jewelry quality: Implant-grade titanium or gold increases the total.
- Piercer experience: More skilled piercers charge more, especially for high-risk or advanced placements.
- Studio reputation: Well-reviewed shops with high cleanliness standards tend to cost more—but also offer safer experiences.
According to Emily, who manages a studio in Austin, “We see a lot of first-timers choose lower-end jewelry to save money, but they usually come back to upgrade once they’ve healed. It’s better to start with something your body can tolerate.”
Typical Price Ranges (Including Jewelry)
| Piercing Type | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|
| Earlobe (single) | $50–80 |
| Cartilage | $60–110 |
| Nostril | $60–100 |
| Septum | $70–110 |
| Eyebrow | $50–90 |
| Lip (various) | $60–100 |
| Tongue | $60–90 |
| Navel | $70–120 |
| Surface | $80–130 |
| Nipple (pair) | $90–140 |
| Genital | $90–250+ |
These prices typically include a basic jewelry option but not premium metals or gem settings.
Tips for Getting the Best Experience
- Tip your piercer: A 15–30% gratuity is standard if you’re happy with the service.
- Ask what’s included: Some studios charge separately for jewelry or aftercare.
- Avoid lowball prices: If a piercing seems unusually cheap, ask about sterilization, training, and jewelry quality.
- Check portfolios: Look for healed photos, not just fresh ones.
According to Jordan, a piercer in Chicago, “Don’t just shop for price. Look for a studio that takes time to explain the process, uses high-end tools, and shows you how they clean everything.”
Budgeting for Your Piercing
Body piercings in 2025 range from around $50 to $250 depending on placement, studio, and materials. Always plan for jewelry, gratuity, and aftercare supplies like saline spray. When in doubt, call your local studio and ask for an estimate. A reputable piercer will be happy to walk you through the process and help you make the safest, most informed decision.