Ear Piercing Prices

1. Lobe Piercing

Lobe piercing is the most common and usually the most affordable type of ear piercing. Prices for a standard lobe piercing typically range between $20 to $50 depending on the studio and whether you're getting one or both ears pierced. Many places offer discounts for piercing both lobes at once. Some shops also include basic jewelry in the price, but higher-quality materials like titanium or gold will cost extra.

Because it's the softest part of the ear, lobe piercings are simple and heal quickly, which helps keep costs low. Some places use piercing guns (especially in mall kiosks), but professional piercing studios prefer needles for safety and better healing. Don’t forget to factor in aftercare products like saline solution, which can add around $5 to $10 to your total cost.

2. Helix Piercing

A helix piercing is done on the upper cartilage of the ear and usually costs between $30 to $70, depending on the jewelry you choose and the studio's reputation. Since cartilage is thicker than the lobe, this type of piercing needs more precision and skill, which is reflected in the price.

The cost can go up if you select high-end jewelry like solid gold or gemstone studs. Healing can take several months, so you might also spend a little on aftercare. Some people get multiple helix piercings, often called a double or triple helix, which may come at a discounted bundle price if done at the same time.

3. Forward Helix Piercing

The forward helix is located near the root of the helix, closer to the head. It's slightly more intricate than a regular helix, and prices usually start at $40 and go up to $80. This is because the area is tighter and requires a skilled piercer to get it right.

If you're considering a double or triple forward helix (which is quite trendy), you might get a better deal per piercing when done in a set. Forward helix piercings look great with studs or tiny hoops, but premium jewelry like opal or gold can increase the overall cost significantly.

4. Industrial Piercing

An industrial piercing connects two holes in the upper ear with a single long barbell. Due to its complexity, it tends to be pricier, usually ranging from $60 to $100. This is essentially two piercings in one, so you're paying for double the skill and time.

Jewelry also matters—a simple steel barbell is included in most base prices, but fancier ones with designs or titanium coating can raise the price. Healing takes longer and requires more careful aftercare, so you might also spend a bit more on cleaning solutions and follow-up visits.

5. Tragus Piercing

The tragus is the small flap in front of your ear canal. A tragus piercing typically costs between $30 to $60, depending on the studio and jewelry. It's a small area, which makes it slightly more delicate to pierce, requiring a steady and experienced hand.

Jewelry options like curved barbells, flat-back studs, or dainty hoops can affect the final price. Since it's close to the ear canal, good hygiene and proper aftercare are essential, which might include purchasing special cleaning products not included in the initial price.

6. Anti-Tragus Piercing

Located just opposite the tragus, the anti-tragus is a bit more uncommon and usually costs around $40 to $80. Because it’s a thicker area of cartilage, it can be more painful and requires a piercer with experience in tricky placements.

The price will increase depending on the jewelry you choose. Not all studios offer anti-tragus piercings due to its complexity, so be sure to find a reputable shop with experienced professionals. Healing takes time—up to 6 months or more—so you may also factor in aftercare costs.

7. Rook Piercing

The rook is the thick fold of cartilage above the tragus and between the inner and outer conch. It's a more advanced piercing, typically priced between $50 to $90. This area is small and curved, requiring expert precision.

Jewelry for rook piercings includes curved barbells and small hoops. You’ll often pay extra if you want high-quality or hypoallergenic pieces like surgical stainless steel earrings. Healing time is also longer, and some people need touch-ups or adjustments, which could add to your overall cost.

8. Daith Piercing

Daith piercings are done in the innermost cartilage fold of the ear, right above the ear canal. These typically cost $40 to $90, largely depending on how difficult it is to pierce and the jewelry involved.

Many people believe daith piercings can help with migraines, which has increased their popularity. The shape of this part of the ear makes it a bit tricky, so it's essential to go to a skilled piercer. Unique jewelry like heart-shaped rings or gemmed hoops can add to the final bill.

9. Conch Piercing

The conch is the middle part of your ear and can be pierced in two styles: inner or outer. Prices for a conch piercing usually range from $40 to $90. Because it's a flat area of cartilage, the pain level is moderate, and it takes longer to heal.

You can choose a flat back stud for inner conch piercings or a large hoop that wraps around the outer ear. The size and style of jewelry play a major role in the price. Larger, custom-fit pieces will cost more and may need to be special-ordered from the studio.

10. Snug Piercing

The snug is a horizontal piercing along the inner cartilage ridge of the ear, between the helix and anti-tragus. This is a unique and rare piercing, usually priced between $50 to $90, depending on the complexity and jewelry.

Because of the awkward shape of the area, snug piercings are more painful and have a longer healing time. Only experienced piercers should attempt it, and that expertise might be reflected in the price. Custom curved barbells may also raise the overall cost.

11. Orbital Piercing

Orbital piercings involve two holes connected by a single hoop, commonly placed in the lobe or helix. They generally cost $60 to $100 due to the double piercing involved and the precise alignment required.

The price includes the hoop that links the two holes, and you might want to invest in higher-quality materials to prevent irritation. Orbital piercings look elegant but require careful healing and cleaning, so plan for aftercare expenses as well.

12. Auricle Piercing

This piercing sits between the lobe and the helix, in the outer rim of the ear. Auricle piercings cost around $30 to $60, and are becoming increasingly popular due to their subtle yet stylish look.

You can opt for studs or small hoops, and jewelry upgrades can raise the cost. Because it’s close to the surface, this piercing is prone to bumps and irritation, so good aftercare is crucial. Most studios offer cleaning kits for an extra few bucks.

13. Flat Piercing

A flat piercing is done on the flat area of cartilage between the helix and rook. This trendy spot usually costs $40 to $80, depending on jewelry and studio quality. It's great for showing off unique studs or tiny charms.

Since it’s a wide, open area, many people choose multiple flat piercings to create stylish ear layouts. Group discounts may be available for multiple piercings in one session. Aftercare and healing are fairly straightforward but may still require special solutions.

14. Constellation Piercing

A constellation piercing is a curated grouping of multiple ear piercings (often 3 or more) designed to create a pattern, usually on the lobe or outer ear. Pricing can vary widely—from $100 to $300 or more—depending on how many piercings are included and the jewelry chosen.

This is more of a custom service, where a piercer works with you to plan your ear's aesthetic. Since it involves several individual piercings, you're paying for both the number of holes and the artistry involved in layout and jewelry selection. Discounts per piercing are common in constellation packages.