Tattoo reference guide
U.S. Tattoo Statistics
A sourced snapshot of tattoo prevalence, motivations, regret, and safety facts. Updated August 25, 2026.
View sourcesAt a glance
A cultural mainstay, not a fringe choice.
These figures are drawn from Pew Research Center's 2023 survey of U.S. adults, with tattoo-ink safety context from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Each number links to its original source so it can be checked and cited in context.
Prevalence
Who has tattoos in the U.S.?
of U.S. adults have more than one tattoo.
of adults under 30 have a tattoo.
of adults ages 30 to 49 have a tattoo.
of women have at least one tattoo.
of men have at least one tattoo.
Meaning
Why people get tattooed.
of tattooed adults say honoring or remembering someone or something was a reason for a tattoo.
of tattooed adults say making a statement about their beliefs was a reason.
of tattooed adults say they regret one or more of their tattoos.
Safety facts
The details behind the ink matter.
50+ pigments and shades: The FDA says more than 50 different pigments and shades are used in tattooing. Its fact sheet also notes that no color additives are approved for injection into the skin. FDA tattoo and permanent makeup fact sheet, accessed August 25, 2026
Local oversight: The FDA regulates tattoo inks as cosmetics, while the actual practice of tattooing is regulated by local jurisdictions. That distinction is one reason a professional studio, a clear conversation, and careful aftercare are worth taking seriously. FDA tattoo and permanent makeup fact sheet, accessed August 25, 2026
Request an appointment ✦Methodology and sources
How to use this page.
The prevalence, demographic, motivation, and regret figures on this page come from Pew Research Center's survey of 5,055 U.S. adults conducted July 10 to 16, 2023. The safety facts come from the FDA's public tattoo and permanent makeup fact sheet. This page does not treat national figures as a measure of local tattoo demand or individual health advice.
- Pew Research Center: 32% of Americans have a tattoo, including 22% who have more than one, August 15, 2023
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Tattoos and Permanent Makeup Fact Sheet, accessed August 25, 2026
Cite this page
Behind the Coffin Tattoos. “U.S. Tattoo Statistics: 2023 Data and Safety Facts.” Updated August 25, 2026.