A nose piercing costs around $40 to $100 in the US, with jewelry included. A standard nostril piercing at a reputable studio usually runs $50–$80; a septum or bridge can cost a bit more. Prices below $30 are a red flag — cheap piercings usually mean cheap jewelry, rushed work, or both.

What you are really paying for is the piercer’s skill, sterile equipment, and quality starter jewelry — not just the hole.

For the full picture, start with our complete nose piercing guide.

Average Nose Piercing Prices by Type

  • Nostril piercing: $40–$80, jewelry included.
  • Septum piercing: $50–$90, jewelry included.
  • Bridge piercing: $60–$100, jewelry included.
  • Double nose piercing: $80–$150 for both, sometimes discounted as a pair.

These are typical US studio ranges. Prices vary by city — expect the higher end in major metros and the lower end in smaller towns.

Illustration showing what a nose piercing price typically includes
Illustration: what a typical piercing price covers.

What Affects the Price?

  • Jewelry material — implant-grade titanium costs the studio more than basic steel, and it shows in the price. It is worth it.
  • Piercer experience — senior piercers charge more; you are paying for steadier hands.
  • Studio quality — licensed studios with autoclaves and single-use needles cost more than mall kiosks.
  • Location — rent in New York or Los Angeles gets baked into every piercing.
  • Piercing complexity — bridge and double piercings take more time and precision.

What Is Usually Included in the Price?

A proper studio quote includes the piercing service, the starter jewelry, sterilization, and aftercare instructions. Ask before you book — some studios quote the piercing alone and add jewelry separately. Aftercare saline spray ($8–$15) is usually an extra purchase.

Jewelry Upgrades: What They Cost

  • Basic titanium stud: included in most starter prices.
  • 14k gold stud or hoop: typically $60–$150 extra, depending on design.
  • Decorative or gemstone pieces: $40–$200+, set by the brand and materials.

Our nose piercing jewelry guide explains which materials are worth paying for and which to avoid.

Illustration of nose piercing jewelry at different price points
Illustration: starter jewelry versus premium upgrades.

How to Spot a Fair Quote (and a Bad Deal)

  • Fair: the studio lists prices openly, includes jewelry in the quote, and uses implant-grade titanium or 14k gold.
  • Fair: the piercer is happy to explain the jewelry and answer questions.
  • Red flag: prices under $30 with no detail about jewelry quality.
  • Red flag: piercing guns instead of needles.
  • Red flag: pressure to decide fast or upsells you did not ask for.

Nose Piercing Cost FAQs

How much does a nose piercing cost at a tattoo shop?

About the same as a dedicated studio — $40–$100 with jewelry. Judge the piercer and hygiene, not the sign on the door.

Is it cheaper to get pierced at the mall?

Sometimes, but mall kiosks often use piercing guns and low-grade jewelry, which raise the risk of pain, infection, and bumps. The ‘savings’ can cost more in complications.

Do I tip my piercer?

Tipping 15–20% is customary in the US and appreciated — it is standard for personal services.

How much does it cost to change nose piercing jewelry?

Many studios swap jewelry for free or a small fee ($10–$25) if you buy the new piece from them. The jewelry itself is the main cost.

Keep exploring: our nose piercing guide hub links every article in this cluster.