Curators Salary 2025: $63,420 Median Pay, 7% Job Growth
The median curator earns $63,420 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The mean salary is $71,560, or roughly $30 an hour. The middle 80% of curators earn between $40,470 and $107,140, so top performers can reach six figures.
Curators manage collections in museums, galleries, historical sites, and other institutions. They acquire objects, design exhibits, conduct research, and oversee preservation. It's a small occupation — 12,150 jobs nationwide — but demand is solid.
How much Curators earn
The national median salary for curators is $63,420. The lowest-paid 10% make around $40,470, while the highest-paid 10% earn more than $107,140. Your actual pay depends on your employer, experience, and location.
Curators working for the federal government tend to earn the most, followed by those in scientific research and development services. Museums, historical sites, and local government pay closer to the median.
- Median annual wage: $63,420
- Mean annual wage: $71,560 ($34.41/hr)
- 10th percentile: $40,470
- 90th percentile: $107,140
Pay by state
Salaries vary significantly by state. The District of Columbia pays the most, with an average of $93,310. New Hampshire is second at $82,490, followed by New York ($79,120), California ($78,740), and Rhode Island ($77,930).
At the lower end, Mississippi averages $40,600, South Carolina $47,200, and North Carolina $49,470. If you're flexible about location, targeting high-paying states can boost your income substantially.
How to become Curator
Most curator jobs require a master's degree in art history, museum studies, history, archaeology, or a related field. A bachelor's degree may suffice for assistant roles, but advancement typically needs an advanced degree.
Internships and volunteer experience in museums or galleries are essential. Many curators start as curatorial assistants, research associates, or collection managers. Professional certifications, like the Certified Museum Professional (CMP) credential, can improve your prospects.
New curators often begin in entry-level positions such as curatorial assistant or museum technician. On-the-job training and networking through museums associations are key.
- Earn a relevant master's degree (e.g., museum studies, art history).
- Gain experience through internships or volunteer work at museums.
- Consider certification, such as from the American Alliance of Museums.
- Apply for entry-level roles: curatorial assistant, collection manager.
Job outlook
Employment of curators is projected to grow 7% between 2024 and 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. That's about 1,800 openings per year over the decade, mostly due to replacement needs from retirees and workers leaving the field.
Competition is stiff, especially for jobs at prestigious museums. Candidates with specialized knowledge in fields like natural history, science, or ethnographic collections may have an edge. Growth will be strongest in museums and historical sites that expand their public programs.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a curator make an hour?
The mean hourly wage is $34.41, based on BLS data. Median annual pay is $63,420.
What education do you need to be a curator?
A master's degree in museum studies, art history, history, or a related field is typically required. Experience through internships is also critical.
Is curator a growing career?
Yes. The BLS projects 7% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average, with about 1,800 openings per year.
What is the highest paying state for curators?
The District of Columbia pays the most at $93,310 average, followed by New Hampshire ($82,490) and New York ($79,120).
How many curators are there in the US?
As of the latest BLS data, there are 12,150 curator jobs in the United States.
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 Curators data.