Lyricist salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Lyricist in United States is approximately 56,450 USD (56,711 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Lyricist do?

A lyricist is a professional who writes the words or lyrics for songs. They collaborate with composers and musicians to create the lyrical content that complements the melody and overall theme of a song. The occupation of a lyricist requires a deep understanding of language, storytelling, and musicality. They must have a knack for crafting catchy and meaningful lyrics that resonate with the audience. Lyricists often work in the music industry, writing for various genres such as pop, rock, country, hip-hop, and more. They may also write lyrics for musicals, film soundtracks, and commercials. A successful lyricist possesses creativity, strong writing skills, and the ability to adapt their style to different genres. They must also be able to collaborate effectively with composers and artists to bring their vision to life.

Skills: Songwriting, Music, Lyrics, Creative Writing, Collaboration, Musicality
Job industry: Entertainment

How much does Lyricist make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


Want to check how your salary compares? Submit your own salary here

Salary comparison to National average

Is Lyricist a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Lyricist is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Lyricist?

High salary for Lyricist would be somewhere between 62,095 USD and 81,853 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Lyricist in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 56,450 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 4,704 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,086 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 27 USD per hour
By working as Lyricist a person can save up to 2,446 USD per month or 29,351 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Lyricist

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

Random salary:
Climate change policy specialist advocate (52,515 USD per year, pre-tax.)
Video game creative director (135,569 USD per year, pre-tax.)
Managing dispensing optician (38,521 USD per year, pre-tax.)
Dvd author encoder (42,413 USD per year, pre-tax.)
Business administration manager non-profit organization (63,587 USD per year, pre-tax.)

Feedback about these results