Artists and Related Workers Salary: $99,760 Median in 2025
The median salary for Artists and Related Workers in the U.S. is $99,760 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $48 an hour. The top 10% earn more than $193,170, while the bottom 10% make $45,340 or less. Employment in this occupation stands at 95,780 workers.
How much Artists and Related Workers earn
The median — the point where half earn more and half earn less — is $99,760. The mean annual wage is $112,040, or about $48 per hour. Salaries span widely: the 10th percentile is $45,340 and the 90th percentile is $193,170.
Pay varies by specialty, experience, and location. Fine artists, illustrators, and multimedia artists are all grouped under this BLS category. The highest earners often work in motion picture or software publishing.
Pay by state
State-level data from the BLS is not available for this occupation in the latest OEWS release. However, artists in major media markets like California and New York typically command higher wages. Rural and lower-cost states tend to pay less.
How to become an Artist or Related Worker
Most artists hold a bachelor's degree, often in fine arts, graphic design, or animation. But talent and a strong portfolio can be more important than formal education. Many start as assistants or freelancers, building a body of work.
Certification is not typically required, but specialized software skills — like Adobe Creative Suite or 3D modeling tools — are essential. Networking and internships help break into competitive fields like film or advertising.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in art or a related field, or gain equivalent skills through independent study.
- Build a portfolio showcasing your best work. Update it regularly.
- Gain experience through internships, freelance projects, or entry-level assistant roles.
- Consider joining professional organizations like the Graphic Artists Guild for networking and resources.
Job outlook
The BLS does not project growth for Artists and Related Workers for 2024–2034. That said, demand for digital artists and animators is strong in entertainment, advertising, and tech. Traditional fine arts roles may face more competition.
Frequently asked questions
What does the median salary of $99,760 mean for artists?
It means half of all Artists and Related Workers earn more than that, half earn less. It's a midpoint, not a starting salary. New graduates often earn less, while experienced or specialized artists earn well above.
Do I need a degree to be an artist?
Many employers prefer a bachelor's, but a strong portfolio can substitute. Skills in digital tools and a network of contacts are critical. Some successful artists are self-taught.
Is there growth in art careers?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics didn't provide a growth projection for this occupation through 2034. But fields like multimedia art and animation are expanding due to demand in video games, movies, and online content.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Artists and Related Workers data.