Body piercings have become a timeless trend bold, expressive, and full of personality. Among them, the belly button piercing (also known as a navel piercing) stands out as one of the most stylish and feminine choices. Whether it’s your first piercing or another addition to your collection, one question naturally pops up before you book your appointment: how much does a belly button piercing cost?
The answer depends on several factors the piercer’s expertise, your city, jewelry type, and aftercare. This guide will walk you through everything, from average belly button piercing prices to hidden fees, healing tips, and real-world examples.
What Exactly Is a Belly Button Piercing?
A belly button piercing involves inserting jewelry through the skin surrounding your navel. It’s usually done on the upper rim of the belly button but can vary depending on anatomy and personal preference.
Different Types of Belly Button Piercings
| Piercing Type | Description | Healing Time | Average Cost |
| Standard Navel Piercing | Jewelry placed above the belly button the most common style. | 6–9 months | $40–$80 |
| Inverse (Bottom) Piercing | Piercing below the navel instead of above. | 6–9 months | $45–$90 |
| Double Piercing | Two piercings one above and one below. | 9–12 months | $80–$150 |
| Surface Piercing | Piercing the flat skin around the navel using a surface bar. | 9–12 months | $60–$120 |
| Floating Navel Piercing | Uses a curved barbell that “floats” under the skin — great for shallow navels. | 6–9 months | $50–$100 |
Fun Fact: Supermodels in the ’90s like Naomi Campbell and Christy Turlington helped make navel piercings mainstream. Today, it’s still one of the most photographed and replicated piercings worldwide.
How Much Does a Belly Button Piercing Cost on Average?
In 2025, the average belly button piercing cost falls between $30 and $100, depending on location, jewelry, and studio reputation.
| Country | Average Cost Range | Common Jewelry Material |
| United States | $40–$90 | Surgical steel, titanium |
| United Kingdom | £25–£70 | Gold, stainless steel |
| Canada | CAD $40–$100 | Titanium, bioplast |
| Australia | AUD $50–$120 | Gold, titanium |
| India | ₹1,200–₹4,000 | Surgical steel, titanium |
Why Prices Vary So Much
Piercing studios differ in experience, hygiene, and jewelry quality. A professional, certified piercer in a reputable salon will always charge more than a small local studio but that higher price often means better tools, sterile equipment, and fewer complications later.
Factors That Influence Belly Button Piercing Cost
1. Studio Reputation and Location
Bigger cities like New York, London, or Sydney tend to charge higher prices due to rent, licensing, and equipment costs.
However, the extra cost often buys peace of mind. Reputable studios use sterile needles, autoclaves, and implant-grade jewelry, reducing infection risk dramatically.
2. Piercer’s Experience and Certification
A skilled piercer doesn’t just make it look good they ensure correct placement, avoid blood vessels, and minimize pain. Many certified piercers have completed apprenticeships under professionals and are licensed by local health authorities.
Expect to pay $10–$30 more for an experienced piercer but you’re also paying for precision and safety.
3. Jewelry Material
Jewelry type plays a huge role in overall cost and healing comfort. Cheap metals can cause allergic reactions or rejection.
Here’s a breakdown of jewelry options:
| Jewelry Material | Description | Pros | Average Price |
| Surgical Steel (316L) | Most common, durable, hypoallergenic. | Affordable, safe for most skin types. | $10–$25 |
| Titanium | Lightweight and biocompatible. | Great for sensitive skin; nickel-free. | $20–$50 |
| Gold (14k or 18k) | Luxurious, hypoallergenic if nickel-free. | Looks elegant; long-lasting. | $50–$120 |
| Bioplast/PTFE | Flexible and non-metallic. | Ideal for healing piercings. | $15–$30 |
| Niobium | Rare, corrosion-resistant metal. | Similar benefits to titanium. | $25–$45 |
Tip: Avoid nickel-based metals during healing. They’re cheap but can cause irritation or prolonged redness.
4. Type of Jewelry Design
The jewelry’s design complexity also affects price:
- Curved barbells , classic and affordable
- Dangling charms , trendy but slightly pricier
- Gemstone tops or 3D shapes , premium designs with extra sparkle
5. Additional Expenses
Don’t forget these add-ons that can increase your total bill:
- Aftercare solutions ($10–$20)
- Jewelry upgrade later ($20–$80)
- Follow-up checkups (often free, but some charge a small fee)
- Replacement jewelry if you lose or damage the original piece
Hidden or Long-Term Costs
While the initial piercing may cost $40–$90, the long-term expenses often surprise people.
Hidden Costs Breakdown:
| Expense | Estimated Cost | Notes |
| Aftercare Products | $10–$25 | Saline spray or antiseptic solution |
| Jewelry Change | $20–$60 | Recommended every few months |
| Replacement Jewelry | $30–$100 | Upgrades or style changes |
| Doctor Visit (if infected) | $50–$150 | If you develop an infection or allergic reaction |
Taking care of your piercing is part of the investment. Spending a little more early saves you from infections, scars, or costly medical treatments later.
The Belly Button Piercing Procedure
Understanding the process helps you feel more confident before walking into the studio.
Step-by-Step Process
- Consultation: The piercer checks your navel anatomy and discusses jewelry options.
- Sterilization: The skin around your belly button is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
- Marking: The entry and exit points are marked for perfect alignment.
- Piercing: A sterile, hollow needle creates the hole in a swift motion.
- Insertion: The jewelry is gently placed through the new piercing.
- Aftercare Instructions: You’ll receive cleaning guidelines and healing tips.
Pain Level: Most people describe it as a quick pinch about 3 or 4 out of 10 on the pain scale.
Healing Process and Aftercare Tips
The belly button piercing healing process takes between 6 and 12 months, depending on your body and aftercare routine. Healing too fast or too slow depends largely on hygiene and jewelry quality.
Aftercare Do’s and Don’ts
| Do’s | Don’ts |
| Clean twice daily with saline solution. | Don’t touch it with dirty hands. |
| Dry the area gently with paper towels. | Avoid tight clothing that rubs the area. |
| Sleep on your back to prevent pressure. | Don’t swim in pools or hot tubs early on. |
| Eat nutritious foods to boost healing. | Avoid alcohol and smoking during early healing. |
Pro Tip: Sea salt soaks (¼ teaspoon of non-iodized salt in warm water) can help soothe irritation and promote healing naturally.
Signs of a Healthy vs. Infected Piercing
| Symptom | Healthy Piercing | Possible Infection |
| Redness | Mild and temporary | Persistent, spreading redness |
| Discharge | Clear or white | Yellow or green pus |
| Pain | Dull ache for a few days | Sharp, throbbing pain |
| Swelling | Minimal | Increasing daily |
If infection develops, visit a professional piercer or doctor immediately. Don’t remove the jewelry yourself it can trap bacteria inside and worsen the infection.
Real-Life Case Studies: How Much People Actually Paid
Case 1: Sarah – Los Angeles, CA
- Studio: Black Diamond Tattoo & Piercing
- Piercing Type: Standard Navel
- Jewelry: Titanium curved barbell
- Base Cost: $60
- Aftercare Kit: $15
- Total: $75
“It healed beautifully within 8 months. Paying for titanium was totally worth it.”
Case 2: Emma – London, UK
- Studio: The Circle London
- Jewelry: 14k Gold Barbell
- Base Cost: £55
- Jewelry Upgrade: £40
- Total: £95
“I wanted something classy that wouldn’t irritate my skin gold was the perfect choice.”
Case 3: Maya – Toronto, Canada
- Studio: Adrenaline Toronto
- Piercing Type: Inverse Navel
- Jewelry: Surgical Steel
- Total: CAD $65
“Affordable and professional service. The piercer made me feel super comfortable.”
Common Questions About Belly Button Piercing Costs
1. Why do some studios charge less?
Lower prices often mean lower-quality jewelry or inexperienced piercers. Always check reviews, certifications, and cleanliness before choosing based on price alone.
2. Can I bring my own belly button jewelry?
Some studios allow it, but it must be sterile and implant-grade. Most professionals prefer to use jewelry they’ve sanitized themselves for safety.
3. Do I need to tip my piercer?
Yes , just like hairstylists or tattoo artists, piercers appreciate tips. A 10–20% tip is standard for good service.
4. How soon can I change my jewelry?
You should wait at least 3–6 months before swapping jewelry. Changing it too early can delay healing or cause irritation.
5. Is a belly button piercing painful or dangerous?
Pain is minimal and short-lived. However, risks include infection, rejection, or migration if you neglect aftercare or use poor-quality jewelry.
Is a Belly Button Piercing Worth the Cost?
Absolutely if you’re ready for the care and responsibility it requires. The belly button piercing cost isn’t just about the piercing itself; it’s an investment in safe artistry and your personal expression.
Expect to spend around $50–$100 for a high-quality piercing and $20–$50 more for jewelry upgrades or aftercare.
Remember, the cheapest option is rarely the best. As professionals say:
“A good piercing isn’t cheap, and a cheap piercing isn’t good.”
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
| Average Cost (2025) | $40–$100 |
| Healing Time | 6–12 months |
| Best Jewelry | Titanium or gold |
| Hidden Costs | Aftercare, jewelry upgrades |
| Pain Level | Mild (3–4/10) |
| Biggest Factor | Studio reputation and jewelry quality |
Final Thoughts
Getting a belly button piercing can be an exciting and empowering experience but only when done safely. Take your time researching studios, verify certifications, and don’t compromise on jewelry quality.
Whether you spend $40 or $100, what matters most is hygiene, expertise, and proper healing. With care and patience, your piercing can heal beautifully and last for years.
“Piercings are not just about decoration they’re about expression, confidence, and individuality.”