How to Become a Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in California
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in California earn a median salary of $140,080/year, which is 131% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.5%. After taxes and rent, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators takes home approximately $6,699/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators can afford in California
Becoming a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in California
Meet education requirements
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustratorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 1,760 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators. The highest concentrations are in Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $141K | $67.62/hr | 1,360 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $85K | $40.84/hr | 230 |
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary range in California
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators make in California?▼
The median fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators salary in California is $140,080 per year ($67.35/hr). This is 131% above the national median of $60,560. Salaries range from $63,950 to $226,440.
What are the requirements to become a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in California?▼
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $140,080, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in California would take home approximately $8,111/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 17.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in California are Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($140,660), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($84,950). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.5%. On a $140,080 salary, this means roughly $9,165/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.