Makeup Artist salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Makeup Artist in United States is approximately 42,408 USD (42,552 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 Makeup Artist do?

A makeup artist is a professional who specializes in applying cosmetics to enhance the appearance of individuals in various settings, such as film, television, theater, fashion shows, special events, and photo shoots. Their main objective is to transform a person's look by using makeup techniques that highlight their best features and create desired effects. This occupation requires a deep understanding of color theory, facial anatomy, and different makeup products and tools. Makeup artists may also provide skincare advice and collaborate with hairstylists and wardrobe stylists to create a cohesive overall look.

Skills: makeup artist, cosmetics, beauty industry, professional makeup, makeup techniques, skincare advice
Job industry: Beauty and personal care

How much does Makeup Artist make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Makeup Artist a well paid job?

No, our data shows that Makeup Artist is typically not a well-paid job. The salary varies based on experience. Meaning that even though Makeup Artist might be a low paying job, with experience the salary might increase to satisfactory levels.

What is considered a high salary for Makeup Artist?

High salary for Makeup Artist would be somewhere between 46,649 USD and 61,492 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Makeup Artist 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: 42,408 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 3,534 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 816 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 20 USD per hour
By working as Makeup Artist a person can save up to 1,266 USD per month or 15,192 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 Makeup Artist

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

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