Makeup artist earnings in the United States vary widely depending on experience, location, specialization, and employment type.
- The average hourly wage for a makeup artist is around $29.77 to $32, which translates to about $5,280 per month or roughly $74,000 annually for a full-time schedule
. Another source cites an average annual salary closer to $41,698 to $44,901, with entry-level positions starting around $37,700
- Salary ranges are broad, from minimum wage ($7.25 per hour) up to $94.45 per hour or more, especially with overtime, bonuses, and tips factored in
- Starting salaries typically range between $20,000 and $30,000 per year, but top earners-especially those working in film, television, or celebrity makeup-can make $121,000 or more annually
- Makeup artists working in high-demand or high-cost-of-living states like California, New York, or Oregon tend to earn more, with some states offering averages around $60,000, while others may offer $36,000 to $42,000 per year
- Freelance makeup artists can charge from $300 to $3,000 per day depending on their clientele and reputation
In summary, makeup artist salaries range broadly from about $20,000 for entry- level roles to over $120,000 for experienced professionals in specialized fields, with an average around $40,000 to $75,000 annually depending on various factors.
