Tattoo Shops · Wilmington, NC/Updated June 13, 2026
The 10 Best Tattoo Shops in Wilmington, NC
For tattoos, Wilmington has some stellar options. We've ranked the best shops based on real customer feedback and reviews.
MHMaya Hendricks · Home Services Editor Updated June 13, 2026 · Next review July 2026
Editorially independent10 companies evaluated
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★ Editor's ChoiceWilmington Tattoo & Piercing
96Score
Latest update · June 13, 2026: Initial ranking published. 10 Wilmington-metro tattoo shops businesses evaluated, top 10 ranked by Vetted Score.
Wilmington's tattoo scene is thriving, with over 4,300 reviews reflecting the artistry and professionalism of local shops. Leading the pack is Wilmington Tattoo & Piercing, boasting an impressive 5-star rating from 1,170 reviews, setting a high standard in a competitive field.
This list was crafted by evaluating 10 tattoo providers in the area. Each shop was ranked based on their Vetted Score, which considers customer ratings and the volume of reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect.
10tattoo shops evaluated in Wilmington
4.84average rating across the field
4.3Kcustomer reviews analyzed
Cityvetted analysis of public Google review data, updated June 13, 2026.
To determine our rankings, we analyzed customer feedback, focusing on overall satisfaction and the consistency of service across various shops. We do not accept payment for placement, ensuring that our recommendations are unbiased and based solely on merit.
This list is refreshed monthly, allowing us to keep up with changing ratings and new reviews, so you can trust that you're getting the most accurate information available.
The Vetted Score: six weighted factors
Customer sentiment25%
Rating quality20%
Review volume & velocity20%
Website trust signals15%
Service breadth10%
Business longevity10%
Sentiment is measured by AI analysis of review text, recency-weighted, with verified-pattern checks to discount suspicious review bursts.
With a perfect rating of 5 stars from 1,170 reviews, Wilmington Tattoo & Piercing is a local favorite. Customers rave about the skilled artists and the welcoming atmosphere. This shop excels at custom designs and detailed work, making it ideal for those looking to express their individuality. However, due to its popularity, booking an appointment can take some time.
Gypsy Soul Tattoo and Piercing also holds a stellar 5-star rating with 565 reviews. Customers appreciate the friendly staff and reasonable prices, making it a great choice for those on a budget. The shop is known for its clean environment and artistic designs. A downside is that some artists may have limited availability.
Snafu Tattoo Studio has a 5-star rating from 125 reviews, showcasing its artistic flair. Reviewers love the unique styles and creativity of the artists. This studio is perfect for those seeking something different from traditional tattoos. However, its smaller size may limit the number of artists available at any given time.
Port City Tattoo Co. boasts a solid 4.8-star rating from 603 reviews. Customers appreciate the professionalism and variety of styles available. This shop is well-regarded for its customer service and detailed consultations. A downside is that some clients mention longer wait times for appointments. A review base that deep is hard to game, and the score barely moves across it, which is the clearest consistency signal we track. Most of what reviewers hire it for is professional and detailed consultations. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $100 to $250 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are longer wait times for appointments and some artists may be booked out.
Cape Fear Tattoo holds a 4.8-star rating from 252 reviews. Clients often praise the friendly atmosphere and the versatility of the artists. This shop is particularly good for both tattoos and piercings. However, some reviews mention variability in artist experience, which could affect the final result. A review base that deep is hard to game, and the score barely moves across it, which is the clearest consistency signal we track. Most of what reviewers hire it for is tattoos and piercings. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $80 to $300 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are variability in artist experience and some artists may be less experienced.
Rockstar Tattoo Shop Wilmington has an impressive 4.9-star rating from 110 reviews. Reviewers appreciate the laid-back environment and the talent of the artists. This shop is a solid choice for those looking for a chill experience while getting inked. However, the smaller number of reviews means it's still an emerging option.
Queen Street Tattoo NC has a solid 4.8-star rating from 212 reviews. Customers often highlight the clean shop and the professionalism of the staff. This shop is great for both traditional and modern designs. However, some clients note that the prices can be on the higher side compared to other local shops.
Modern Ink Tattoo Studio has a 4.8-star rating from 147 reviews. Clients appreciate the contemporary designs and friendly atmosphere. This shop is well-suited for customers looking for modern styles and a welcoming experience. However, the lower review count suggests it may not have the same level of established reputation as some competitors.
Jade Monkey Tattoo has a 4.7-star rating from 548 reviews. Customers often mention the unique designs and friendly staff. This shop is particularly good for those looking for personalized tattoos. However, some reviews highlight occasional inconsistencies in service speed. A review base that deep is hard to game, and the score barely moves across it, which is the clearest consistency signal we track. Most of what reviewers hire it for is personalized tattoo designs. It serves Wilmington, NC, with $90 to $250 pricing, and the honest trade-offs are occasional service speed issues and inconsistencies in artist styles.
Hardwire Tattoo & Body Piercing has a 4.6-star rating from 589 reviews. Customers appreciate the variety of services offered, including body piercings. This shop is a good choice for those seeking both tattoos and piercings. However, some clients mention that the atmosphere can feel a bit rushed during busy times.
Selecting the right tattoo shop is essential for both the quality of your artwork and your comfort throughout the process. Here are some key factors to consider.
Review Volume and Consistency
Look for shops with a high number of reviews. A consistent rating across many reviews indicates reliable service.
Artist Specialization
Check if the shop has artists specializing in your desired tattoo style. This can greatly influence the outcome of your piece.
Hygiene and Safety Standards
Visit the shop or read reviews about their cleanliness. A reputable shop prioritizes hygiene and safety.
What it costs
What tattoos cost in Wilmington
Tattoo prices can vary significantly based on size, complexity, and the artist's experience. Here's a breakdown of typical costs.
Small Tattoos$50 to $150 for simple designs, often charged by the hour.
Medium Tattoos$150 to $400 depending on detail and time required.
Large Tattoos$400 to $1,200 for intricate designs or full sleeves.
Cover-Up Tattoos$200 to $800 based on the complexity of the original tattoo and the new design.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a tattoo cost in Wilmington?
Tattoo prices in Wilmington generally range from $50 to $200 for smaller designs, while larger pieces can cost upwards of $300, depending on the artist and complexity.
What should I consider when choosing a tattoo shop in Wilmington?
Look for shops with a high number of positive reviews and experienced artists. Shops like <strong>Wilmington Tattoo & Piercing</strong> and <strong>Gypsy Soul Tattoo and Piercing</strong> have proven track records.
How often is this ranking updated?
We re-run the full analysis monthly with fresh review data. Last updated June 13, 2026.
Our verdict
For most Wilmington tattoo enthusiasts: <strong>Wilmington Tattoo & Piercing</strong>
The clear leader in Wilmington is Wilmington Tattoo & Piercing, with an impressive 5-star rating from 1,170 reviews. This volume of positive feedback speaks volumes about their consistency and quality. Following closely is Gypsy Soul Tattoo and Piercing, also holding a perfect 5-star rating but with 565 reviews, indicating strong customer satisfaction. Finally, Snafu Tattoo Studio, with a 5-star rating from 125 reviews, is promising but unproven compared to the others. For anyone looking for top-tier tattoo services in Wilmington, these three shops are your best bets.
Cityvetted
