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Arts & Media · Massachusetts

How to Become a Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in Massachusetts

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in Massachusetts earn a median salary of $83,530/year, which is 38% above the national average. Massachusetts has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators takes home approximately $3,836/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$84K
Median salary in Massachusetts
+38%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
30
Employed in Massachusetts

What a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators can afford in Massachusetts

Gross annual salary$83,530
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$5,248/mo
Median 2BR rent (Massachusetts)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home26.9% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$83,530/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,836/mo

Becoming a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Massachusetts

1

Meet education requirements

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators positions in Massachusetts typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Massachusetts. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators positions in Massachusetts require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Massachusetts licensure or certification

Massachusetts may require specific licensing or professional certification for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustratorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Massachusetts Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Massachusetts

Massachusetts employs 30 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators. The highest concentrations are in Boston-Cambridge-Newton.

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary by metro area in Massachusetts

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Boston-Cambridge-Newton$44K$21.09/hr40

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary range in Massachusetts

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$63K
Median (50th)
$84K
75th percentile
$111K
90th percentile (senior)
$186K
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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 Massachusetts?

The median fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators salary in Massachusetts is $83,530 per year ($40.16/hr). This is 38% above the national median of $60,560. Salaries range from $31,200 to $186,250.

What are the requirements to become a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Massachusetts?

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators positions in Massachusetts typically require Bachelor's degree. Massachusetts may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Massachusetts licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators afford to live in Massachusetts?

At the median salary of $83,530, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Massachusetts would take home approximately $5,248/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.9% 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 Massachusetts?

The highest paying metro areas for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in Massachusetts are Boston-Cambridge-Newton ($43,860). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Massachusetts have state income tax for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators?

Yes, Massachusetts has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $83,530 salary, this means roughly $4,177/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.