A tongue piercing usually costs between $40 and $120, depending on the studio, location and jewelry quality. High-end studios may charge up to $150 or more.
The price can vary a lot depending on where you go and what type of jewelry you choose. This guide explains everything that affects the cost so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Average Cost of a Tongue Piercing
Most people pay somewhere in this range:
- Small towns: $40 – $70
- Medium cities: $60 – $100
- Big cities: $80 – $150
In professional studios, the price usually includes:
- sterile single-use needle
- basic starter jewelry
- consultation
- aftercare advice
⚠️ If a studio offers a tongue piercing for $20 or less, be careful. Extremely low prices often mean poor hygiene or low-quality jewelry.
What Factors Affect the Price?
Several elements influence how much you’ll pay.
Studio reputation
Well-known studios charge more because they follow strict hygiene standards, use certified equipment and employ experienced piercers. You’re paying for safety and expertise.
Piercer experience
An experienced piercer may charge more, but proper placement reduces swelling, pain and complications.
Location
Prices are higher in large cities due to rent and operating costs.
Jewelry material
Higher-quality metals increase the final price.
Jewelry Materials & Price Differences
Choosing the right metal is important for both safety and comfort.
Titanium (Best choice)
Titanium is the gold standard for oral piercings.
Why it’s good:
- hypoallergenic
- lightweight
- corrosion-resistant
- ideal for healing
Price impact:
+$10 – $30
Surgical Steel
Common starter option.
Pros:
- affordable
- durable
Cons:
- may contain nickel
- not ideal for sensitive mouths
Usually included in base price.
Solid Gold (14k+)
Luxury option.
Important: must be solid gold, not plated.
Price impact:
+$40 – $150+
Niobium
Great alternative to titanium.
- hypoallergenic
- corrosion-resistant
- colored finishes
What to avoid
❌ silver
❌ plated jewelry
❌ mystery alloys
These can irritate your tongue and slow healing.
Why Tongue Piercings Cost More Than Earlobes
Tongue piercings are more complex because:
- they involve muscle tissue
- swelling can affect breathing
- risk of infection is higher
- placement must avoid nerves and veins
This requires:
- more skill
- better tools
- stricter hygiene
So the price reflects the higher responsibility.
Cheap vs Professional Tongue Piercing
Cheap studios often mean:
- reused tools
- poor sterilization
- low-quality jewelry
- higher infection risk
Professional studios offer:
- disposable needles
- medical-grade sterilization
- high-quality metals
- proper placement
👉 Paying more = paying for safety.
Aftercare Costs
After your piercing, you may spend:
- saline mouthwash: $5 – $15
- alcohol-free rinse: $5 – $10
Healing time:
4 to 6 weeks (initial)
Full healing: 2–3 months
Is a Tongue Piercing Worth the Price?
For many people, yes.
A tongue piercing can represent:
- confidence
- individuality
- self-expression
- connection to alternative culture
It’s not just fashion — it’s personal identity.
Risks That Affect Cost Long-Term
Poor placement can cause:
- tooth damage
- gum recession
- speech issues
Fixing mistakes can cost more than doing it right the first time.
FAQ (Rich Snippet Optimized)
How much does a tongue piercing cost?
A tongue piercing costs $40 to $120 on average. High-end studios may charge up to $150+.
Does jewelry price matter?
Yes. Titanium and solid gold cost more but are safer.
Is tongue piercing painful?
Pain is moderate and quick, lasting a few seconds.
How long does it take to heal?
Initial healing takes 4–6 weeks. Full healing takes 2–3 months.
Can I change the jewelry early?
No. Wait until swelling is completely gone.
How to Save Money (Safely)
If you want to reduce cost:
- choose basic titanium jewelry
- avoid custom designs
- go to reputable studios during promotions
❌ Never sacrifice hygiene to save money.
Final Advice
Tongue piercings require professional placement. Cutting corners can lead to serious oral health issues. Paying a little more upfront saves you pain, money and stress later.
Conclusion
A tongue piercing usually costs $40 to $120, depending on studio quality, location and jewelry choice.
Never choose price over safety — your mouth deserves professional care.
👉 Learn more about piercing culture here:
