Tailor, Dressmaker, and Sewer Salary: $40,100 Median (2025 BLS Data)
The median salary for Tailors, Dressmakers, and Sewers in the U.S. is $40,100 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to roughly $19 an hour. The bottom 10% earn around $29,570, while the top 10% bring in $61,570. These figures come from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey.
How much Tailors, Dressmakers, and Sewers earn
The mean annual wage for this occupation is $44,060. Pay varies significantly by experience, location, and specialization—custom bridal or theatrical costuming often pays more than basic alterations.
Typical pay ranges from $29,570 at the 10th percentile to $61,570 at the 90th percentile. Half of all workers earn between those figures.
- Median annual wage: $40,100
- Mean annual wage: $44,060
- Hourly mean wage: $19.00
- 10th percentile: $29,570
- 90th percentile: $61,570
Pay by state
The BLS does not currently publish state-level wage data for this occupation due to insufficient sample sizes. Salary will largely depend on local cost of living and demand for custom garment work. Major metropolitan areas typically pay more.
How to become a Tailor, Dressmaker, or Sewer
Most workers learn through on-the-job training or a vocational program. High school courses in family and consumer sciences can provide a foundation.
Formal training is available at community colleges and technical schools, often through fashion design or sewing certificate programs. Apprenticeships with experienced tailors are a common entry path.
- High school diploma or equivalent typically required.
- Vocational certificate or associate degree in fashion design or sewing can improve prospects.
- On-the-job training under an experienced tailor or dressmaker is common.
- No state licensing required, but sewing certification (e.g., from the American Sewing Guild) may be valued.
Job outlook
Employment data for 2024-2034 is not available from the BLS. The occupation is small, with 16,110 workers nationwide. Growth is likely stagnant as mass-produced clothing dominates, but custom and repair work may sustain demand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the hourly wage for a tailor?
The mean hourly wage is about $19.00 per hour, according to the BLS.
Do tailors make good money?
The median salary of $40,100 is near the national average for all occupations. Top earners can reach $61,570.
How many tailors are employed in the US?
As of the latest BLS data, there are 16,110 Tailors, Dressmakers, and Sewers employed nationwide.
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 Tailors, Dressmakers, and Sewers data.