Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance Salary in U.S. (2024)
The median pay for a makeup artists, theatrical and performance in U.S. is $50,280/year ($24.17/hour), per BLS data. The range runs from $22K at the entry level to $157K for experienced workers.
Updated
AffordMap analysis of BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024
So what does $50K get you in U.S.?
About makeup artists, theatrical and performances
Compensation breakdown
Annual earnings by percentile, U.S.
Entry-level makeup artists, theatrical and performances (10th percentile) start around $22K. Mid-career wages sit at $50K.Top earners bring in $157K or more - a $135K spread from bottom to top.
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance pay across states
Median income ranked highest to lowest, compared to the national figure
| State | Median salary | vs. national | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $133K | +164% | N/A |
| Georgia | $133K | +164% | 80 |
| New York | $100K | +100% | 310 |
| District of Columbia | $91K | +82% | 80 |
| Tennessee | $59K | +16% | 30 |
| Florida | $43K | -14% | 380 |
Track makeup artists, theatrical and performance salary changes
BLS updates this data quarterly. We'll email you when U.S. numbers change.
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Frequently asked questions
How much do makeup artists, theatrical and performances make in U.S.?
The median is $50,280 a year - that works out to about $24.17 an hour. The range is wide: entry-level workers start around $22,010, and experienced makeup artists, theatrical and performances can clear $157,090. These are BLS numbers, based on employer-reported data, not self-reported surveys.
Is $50K enough to live in U.S.?
On that salary, you'd take home roughly $3,537/month after taxes. A 2-bedroom here rents for about $1,412/month, which eats 39.9% of your paycheck. That's above the 30% rule of thumb - housing will be a stretch at the median salary, though you can manage with roommates or a smaller place.
How far does a makeup artists, theatrical and performance salary go in U.S.?
U.S. has a Regional Price Parity of 100 (100 is the national average). That's right at the national average. After cost-of-living adjustment, the median makeup artists, theatrical and performance salary is worth about $50,280 in national-average purchasing power.
Where do makeup artists, theatrical and performances get paid the most?
The table above ranks every state by median pay for this role. Keep in mind that the highest-paying states tend to have the highest costs of living, so the top salary doesn't always mean the most money in your pocket.