How Much Is A Navel Piercing? What Experts Recommend

When I first started looking into getting my belly button (navel) pierced, I had so many questions—especially about how much it would cost. Between different studios, jewelry options, and even country-to-country differences, figuring out the actual price of a navel piercing can feel a little overwhelming. So I pulled together everything I learned, plus expert insights, to help you understand exactly what goes into the cost, what you should expect to pay, and how to make sure you’re getting the best value for your new body art.

What Is a Navel Piercing?

A navel piercing (commonly called a belly button piercing) is a small hole made through the skin around your belly button, usually just above it, so that jewelry can hang over your navel. It’s one of the most popular body piercings after ears and nose, and it’s super customizable—there are variations like upper rim, lower rim, or even side placements, depending on your anatomy.

How Is a Belly Button Piercing Done?

Belly button piercings are performed by a professional piercer, who will clean and mark the area first. If needed, they’ll shave around your navel to ensure a clean surface. Many piercers use a clamp to gently hold the skin, then push a hollow needle through to create the piercing channel. The jewelry—usually a curved barbell—is inserted immediately after. A little bleeding, redness, or swelling right after is totally normal.

So, How Much Is a Navel Piercing?

On average, a belly button piercing will cost between $30 and $75 in the U.S., with the total potentially increasing based on your jewelry choice. In many reputable studios, this price either includes very basic jewelry or covers only the piercing service—meaning you’ll pay extra for the jewelry you actually want.

In my research (and after chatting with folks online), I found that prices can differ quite a bit depending on where you live. For example, someone in Ireland paid around €50 (about $54 USD) including titanium jewelry, while in Florida, I was quoted $120 at one studio—though I later discovered several other respected piercers charging about half that. It really pays to shop around.

What Factors Influence the Cost?

The price of a navel piercing depends on a few key things:

• Location: Studios in big cities or trendy neighborhoods usually charge more.

• Piercer’s experience: Seasoned pros may cost extra but also lower your risk of complications.

• Jewelry choice: Implant-grade stainless steel or titanium are common safe options. Opting for gold (14k or higher) will significantly raise the cost.

• Complexity: Variations like floating navels or special placements might cost more.

Plus, always budget for a tip for your piercer, since that’s separate from the studio fee.

What Are the Best Jewelry Options?

The best jewelry for initial piercings is typically implant-grade stainless steel or titanium because they’re hypoallergenic and safe for healing. If you love the look of gold, make sure it’s at least 14k solid gold—lower karats or gold-plated pieces are too soft or can flake off, irritating your piercing.

Styles include:

• Curved barbells: The classic choice, shaped to fit the curve of your belly.

• Dangles: Flashy and fun once healed.

• Non-dangle styles: Sleek for everyday or active lifestyles.

• Reverse/top-down: Where the decorative piece sits on top of the navel.

Does It Hurt, and How Long Does It Take to Heal?

Most people rate the pain around a 4 or 5 out of 10—sharp but quick. Because your belly is mostly soft tissue, it’s less painful than cartilage piercings. As for healing, plan on about 6 to 8 months for the piercing to be mostly healed, with complete healing possibly taking up to a year.

Navel Piercing Jewelry

When it comes to navel piercings, jewelry choices are key—not just for style, but for healing too. Most professional piercers recommend starting with a curved barbell made from implant-grade stainless steel or titanium. These materials are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Once your piercing has fully healed, you can explore options like dangle charms, reverse top-down barbells, or even minimalist rings. Always prioritize high-quality, hypoallergenic metals to keep your piercing healthy.

Belly Button Piercing Infection

A belly button piercing is an open wound, so some mild redness and discharge are normal early on. However, if you notice persistent swelling, warmth, severe redness, yellow or green pus, or increasing pain, it could be a sign of infection. Avoid home remedies like alcohol or peroxide that can irritate the skin. Instead, clean gently with sterile saline solution and consult your piercer or a healthcare provider right away if symptoms worsen.

How long does it take for Naval Piercing to heal?

Patience is key with navel piercings. While some people see initial healing in about 6-8 months, it can take up to a year for a belly button piercing to fully heal. Your overall health, activity level, and how well you follow aftercare instructions all influence this timeline. During this period, avoid swimming in pools or oceans, wear loose clothing, and resist the urge to change your jewelry too soon.

Caring for Your New Belly Button Piercing

Aftercare is essential. I was advised (and most piercers agree) to clean the area twice a day with sterile saline solution, avoid pools or hot tubs until fully healed, and wear loose clothing to reduce irritation. Stay away from alcohol or hydrogen peroxide—they’re too harsh. Always wash your hands first before touching your piercing.

Signs to Watch Out For

Some redness, slight discharge, and mild discomfort are normal in the early days. But if you notice increasing redness, swelling, yellow or green pus, or a rash around the piercing, contact your piercer or a dermatologist—it could be infected.

Is $120 Too Much for a Belly Button Piercing?

In many places, yes—especially if that’s just for the piercing and not premium jewelry. However, prices vary by region. A lot of reputable studios in the U.S. will charge around $40 to $70, plus the cost of jewelry. Always check that your piercer uses sterile equipment and high-quality materials. Sometimes paying a bit more is worth it for safety and skill.

Conclusion

So, how much is a navel piercing? Anywhere from $30 to $75 on average, though you could pay more depending on where you live and your jewelry preferences. Just remember: quality matters. Go to a professional studio, use implant-grade or solid gold jewelry, and follow your aftercare instructions closely. That way, your new piercing will stay healthy, heal beautifully, and keep shining for years to come.