On this page
If you’re curious about how much a belly button piercing costs, you’re not alone. This popular body modification is a style statement, but pricing varies widely by studio, jewelry, and location. Similar to ear piercing and other beauty treatments, understanding the typical price range helps you budget wisely. Below we break down the real numbers, from studio averages to city-specific rates.
Average Belly Button Piercing Cost in the US
The national average for a navel piercing typically falls between $40 and $70. How much you’ll actually pay depends on whether you choose a high-end piercing studio, the quality of the jewelry you pick, and the region you live in. When people ask, “how much does it cost for a belly button piercing?” they often mean the total out-the-door price, which usually includes the piercing service, the initial piece of jewelry, and aftercare instructions. Some shops bundle these, while others charge separately for the jewelry.
On the low end, you might find promotions around $30, but it’s essential to ensure the piercer follows strict hygiene standards. In contrast, upscale studios in metropolitan areas can charge $80 to $100 for the same service when premium implant-grade titanium or gold jewelry is chosen. Overall, how much a belly button piercing usually costs sits comfortably in the $45–$65 range for most people.
Cost by State and City
Where you live significantly influences the final price. Below is a snapshot of typical ranges across several US states. These figures reflect professional piercing studios; mall kiosks or jewelry stores that use piercing guns are not recommended for navel piercings.
| Location | Typical Price Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| National Average | $35 – $70 | $50 |
| New York (NY) | $50 – $90 | $70 |
| Texas | $35 – $65 | $50 |
| Florida | $40 – $75 | $55 |
| California | $45 – $80 | $60 |
| Colorado | $40 – $70 | $55 |
All prices are estimates for a single standard navel piercing with basic surgical steel jewelry. Premium materials add extra cost.
Factors That Influence the Price
Studio Reputation and Piercer Experience
Highly experienced piercers who are members of the Association of Professional Piercers (APP) often charge more. Their studios invest in autoclave sterilization, single-use needles, and top-tier aftercare, which justifies the higher fee. A professional belly button piercing cost usually starts around $50 in such environments.
Jewelry Quality and Material
The starter jewelry makes a huge difference. Basic surgical steel is often included, but upgrading to implant-grade titanium, niobium, or 14k gold can add $20 to $80 or more. When evaluating how much money a belly button piercing costs, remember that a higher-quality barbell reduces the risk of allergic reactions and promotes healing.
Geographic Location
As the table shows, New York and California prices sit near the top, while Texas and Florida offer more moderate rates. Searching “how much does a belly button piercing cost near me” will yield local results that reflect your area’s cost of living. In smaller cities, you might find studios charging around $35, whereas downtown Manhattan could be $90+.
How Much Does a Double Belly Button Piercing Cost?
A double navel piercing (two piercings, often one above the other or both top and bottom) typically ranges from $70 to $140 total, depending on studio pricing. Some shops offer a discount for getting both done at the same appointment, so you might pay $60–$100 for the second piercing. Expect to spend a bit more if you choose coordinating jewelry pieces.
Navel Piercing at Claire’s: What to Know
Many people search “how much does a belly button piercing cost at Claire’s” — but the answer is that Claire’s does not perform navel piercings. Claire’s uses a piercing gun for ear piercings only, which is unsafe for belly buttons. Professional piercers use sterile, single-use hollow needles, which are much safer and less traumatic to the tissue. If you’re considering a navel piercing, always go to a reputable studio, even if the price is higher than a mall ear-piercing fee.
Tips to Save Money Safely
- Look for studios that include basic jewelry in the piercing fee. This avoids hidden add-ons.
- Ask about apprentice piercings under supervision – they can be 20–30% cheaper while still safe.
- Avoid “too good to be true” deals. A $20 navel piercing often skips sterilization or uses low-quality metal.
- Purchase aftercare saline solution from a drugstore instead of the studio’s marked-up brand.
- Check if the studio offers a free follow-up or downsizing appointment, saving you later costs.
Another way to budget is to compare the cost with other beauty procedures. For instance, a forearm tattoo can run several hundred dollars, making a navel piercing a relatively affordable body modification. Likewise, many people get piercings alongside services like waxing or nail treatments, so exploring all your options in the beauty category can help you plan a full self-care budget.
Data Sources & Methodology
The price estimates in this guide are based on aggregated market research, publicly available pricing data, and industry reports. We do not collect proprietary information from individual businesses.
- Publicly reported piercing studio pricing across major US cities
- Industry standards set by the Association of Professional Piercers (APP)
- Consumer pricing surveys and forums such as RealSelf and CostHelper
- Jewelry manufacturer suggested retail prices for implant-grade materials
- Ongoing monitoring of regional beauty service cost trends
All content is written and maintained by the CostInsightHub Editorial Team for informational purposes only.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical, professional, or financial advice. Actual piercing costs can vary significantly depending on the studio, location, jewelry choice, and individual requirements. Always consult a licensed professional piercer and follow proper aftercare. CostInsightHub does not endorse any specific provider or make referrals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a belly button piercing cost on average?
The national average falls between $35 and $70, with most professional studios charging around $50 to $60, including a basic barbell.
Is the jewelry included in the piercing price?
Most studios include a standard surgical steel curved barbell. Premium materials like titanium or gold usually cost extra, ranging from $20 to $80 more.
How much does a belly button piercing cost near me?
Local prices depend on your region. Use the table above as a reference, then call nearby APP-member studios for exact quotes. Expect city centers to be pricier than suburbs.
Does a navel piercing hurt?
Pain is subjective, but most people describe it as a quick pinch lasting only a second. Aftercare discomfort is minimal if you follow cleaning instructions.
How long does a belly button piercing take to heal?
Healing typically takes 6 to 12 months. During this time, avoid swimming in pools or hot tubs and stick to saline cleaning to prevent infection.
Can I get a belly button piercing at Claire’s?
No. Claire’s only offers ear piercings with a gun. Navel piercings should always be performed by a trained professional using a sterile needle.
How much does a double belly button piercing cost?
A double navel piercing usually costs between $70 and $140 total. Studios may offer a discount for the second piercing if done in the same session.
