How many swedes have tattoos?

Tattoos have become increasingly popular in Sweden in recent years, with a significant rise in interest. Decorating the body with art has evolved from being somewhat taboo to becoming a way to express oneself personally and showcase one’s identity. But how common is it, really, for Swedes to have tattoos?

Differences among age groups

According to surveys, the number of Swedes with tattoos has steadily increased. A report from Statistics Sweden (SCB) shows that by 2019, approximately 20% of the population aged 16 to 84 had one or more tattoos. This means that nearly one in five Swedes has a tattoo. Compared to previous decades, this is a noticeable increase.

There is also an age-related difference in the prevalence of tattoos. Among younger age groups, it is more common to have tattoos than among older individuals. In the 16-24 age group, a remarkable 35% had a tattoo, while in the 65-84 age group, the figure was only 6%. This indicates that the acceptance and popularity of tattoos have increased the most among younger generations.

More women than men are tattooed

Another interesting observation is that women are more likely to have tattoos than men. In the aforementioned SCB report, it was noted that 24% of women had tattoos, compared to 16% of men. However, there is some variation among different age groups and social strata.

Several factors may have contributed to more Swedes choosing to get tattooed. One likely reason is the increased visibility and acceptance of tattoos in society. In the past, tattoos were often associated with sailors, subcultures, and criminality, but today they are more widely accepted and seen as a form of personal style and artistic expression.

Increased availability of tattoo studios in Sweden

There is also greater availability of tattoo studios and professional tattoo artists. It has become an established industry offering a wide variety of styles and designs, making it easier for people to find something that suits their personal taste.

In summary, we can say that the number of Swedes with tattoos has increased, and tattoos have become increasingly common in society. Nearly one in five Swedes has a tattoo, particularly prevalent among younger women. The acceptance and visibility of tattoos have risen, contributing to more people expressing their personality and style through various tattoo designs.