Costume Attendants: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 6,290 costume attendants, and they earn a median of $54,810/year. The range runs from $34K to $115K. California pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level costume attendants start around $34K. The gap between that and the median ($55K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $115K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| California | $80K | 1,740 |
| New York | $77K | 1,120 |
| Georgia | $68K | 50 |
| Washington | $62K | 150 |
| Wisconsin | $59K | 130 |
| Florida | $59K | 450 |
| Hawaii | $55K | 50 |
| Rhode Island | $49K | 30 |
| District of Columbia | $48K | 80 |
| Minnesota | $48K | 80 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a costume attendants make?▼
The median costume attendants salary in the United States is $54,810 per year ($26/hour). Entry-level positions start around $33,610, while experienced professionals earn up to $115,240.
What education do you need to become a costume attendants?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for costume attendants?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for costume attendants.
What are the highest paying states for costume attendants?▼
The highest paying states for costume attendants are California ($80,440), New York ($77,280), Georgia ($68,390), Washington ($62,430), Wisconsin ($59,460). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.