Makeup Artists Salaries USA 2024: States and Industry

Makeup artists wield the power of transformation, using their skills to enhance features, create artistic looks, and boost confidence. But how much do these creative individuals typically earn?  

This article explores the Makeup Artists wages in United States Of America, exploring the factors that influence your earning potential and offering tips to maximize Makeup Artists income in this dynamic field.

Defining the Makeup Artists:

Makeup artists are skilled professionals who apply cosmetics and prosthetics to enhance or alter the appearance of individuals, typically for film, television, theater, photography, or special events.

Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance Salary Range

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics¹, the annual median salary for Makeup Artists is $47,390. Makeup Artists earn salaries ranging from $21,540 to $141,060 annually.

Top 10% earners: Exceed $141,060 annually

Bottom 10% earners: Make less than $21,540 annually

Projected annual median salary for Makeup Artists in 2024-2025 (with 2.5% increase) is $48,574.

This wide range highlights the diverse factors that influence a Makeup Artists income in USA. We will be discussing those factors below.

Top Paying Industries for Makeup Artists

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data reveals that Makeup Artists working for Employment Services earn the highest annual salaries, exceeding $ 146,000 annually (U.S BLS May 2023²).

Other high-paying industries in USA includes Motion Picture and Video Industries etc.

Industry with highest Employment Level for Makeup Artists

Most number of Makeup Artists are employed in Personal Care Services, followed by Motion Picture and Video Industries.

Chart 1: Industry with highest employment level for Makeup Artists

Top Paying U.S. States for Makeup Artists

District of Columbia leads the pack with the highest annual mean wage for Makeup Artists in USA. Following closely are New York and California all offering wages exceeding $115,000 annually (U.S BLS³).

Click Here To View Wages of All States

U.S. States with the highest employment level for Makeup Artists

New York leads in providing employment to the Makeup Artists, followed by California and Texas.

Chart 2: States with the highest employment level for Makeup Artists

Makeup Artists Take-Home Pay

After factoring in federal and state taxes, a Makeup Artists with a state-wise annual mean salary, would have an estimated net income as follows:

Taxes and take home pay estimate for a single filer

New-York: $111,970 (Annual mean wage) – $22,910 (Estimated income tax) = $89,060 (Estimated take home pay).

Florida: $46,060 (Annual mean wage) – $3,645 (Estimated income tax) = $42,415 (Estimated take home pay).

California: $99,520 (Annual mean wage) –$19,667 (Estimated income tax) = $79,853 (Estimated take home pay).

More taxes can be saved by contributions in IRA, retirement, itemized deduction such as charitable contributions, medical and dental expenses.

Expenses and Savings Potential Estimates in USA

The average annual expenses for a single person household in New York are estimated at $46,584 excluding taxes, according to estimates from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology⁴. (The figures are measured in 2023 inflation-adjusted dollars)

Based on this estimate, a Makeup Artists earning the take home pay of $89,060, with basic expenses could potentially save $42,476 annually. It’s important to note that individual expenses can vary significantly depending on lifestyle choices and location.

Savings for Married Couples/Households:

While the data provided doesn’t explicitly detail salary savings for married couples or households, it’s important to consider that combined incomes and potentially shared expenses could significantly increase overall savings potential in USA.

Beyond the Base Salary

Total compensation for Makeup Artists goes beyond the hourly or annual wage. Organizations offer additional benefits such as:

Profit Sharing: Some salons or studios may offer profit-sharing programs, allowing makeup artists to benefit from the financial success of the business.

Commissions: Makeup artists working in retail cosmetics stores may earn commissions on products they sell to clients, potentially increasing their earnings.

Meal stipends: For travel, Per-day allowances for meals and incidentals.

Travel allowances: Paid travel for on-location shoots or events.

Health insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage for you and your dependents.

Paid time off: Vacation days and sick leave.

Performance Bonuses: Commissions for product sales (in retail settings) and Bonuses for high-profile or challenging projects.

Continuing education reimbursement: Support for professional development and training.

Retirement savings plans: Retirement planning gets a helping hand with employer-sponsored plans like 401(k)s. These plans offer tax advantages for saving. Employers may also match employee contributions.

Factors Affecting Makeup Artists Income

Several factors can affect Makeup Artists paycheck:

Experience: As with most professions, experience plays a significant role in determining salary. Entry-level Makeup Artists can expect lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with proven track records command higher compensation.

Specialization: Focusing on areas like bridal makeup, film/TV makeup, or special effects can boost earnings.

Location: Geographic location significantly impacts Makeup Artists salaries. U.S. States like District of Columbia, New York, and California offer some of the highest pay, while others may offer lower wages.

Industry: The industry you work in can impact your salary. Employment Services offer the highest wages.

Employer: Freelancers may have fluctuating incomes, while salaried artists in salons or studios enjoy stability.

Clientele: High-profile clients (celebrities, influencers, fashion brands) lead to higher earning potential.

Boosting Makeup Artists Salary: Skills and Tips

So, how can Makeup Artists maximize their salary? Here are some tips:

Refine Specialty: Invest in training (e.g., bridal makeup, airbrushing) to cater to niche markets.

Build a Portfolio: Showcase your skills to attract clients.

Network: Connect with other professionals (photographers, hairstylists) to secure high-paying gigs.

Negotiate Your Salary: Don’t be afraid to negotiate your salary during the job offer stage. Research market rates for Makeup Artists with your experience and qualifications.

Continue Learning: Stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in your field by attending conferences and pursuing training opportunities.

Conclusion:

A career as a Makeup Artists in United States offers both professional satisfaction and the potential for a high salary. By understanding the various factors that influence salary and carefully managing expenses, Makeup Artists can make informed decisions and pave the way for a rewarding and financially secure career path.

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Note:

This article provides general information only and should not be considered financial advice: Your individual circumstances and specific job offer details will significantly impact your actual earnings.

Seek professional guidance: Consulting with a financial advisor can provide personalized advice on managing your finances and maximizing your savings potential.

Resources

1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes395091.htm ↩︎
2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes395091.htm ↩︎
3. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes395091.htm ↩︎
4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology: https://livingwage.mit.edu/states/36 ↩︎