Sound Engineer salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Sound Engineer in United States is approximately 44,384 USD (44,308 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 Sound Engineer do?

A sound engineer is a professional responsible for the technical aspects of sound during live performances, recordings, or broadcasts. They work in various fields such as music production, film and television, radio, theater, and gaming. Sound engineers have a deep understanding of audio equipment, software, and techniques to ensure the highest quality sound production. Their main tasks include setting up and operating sound equipment, mixing and editing audio tracks, adjusting sound levels during live performances, troubleshooting technical issues, and collaborating with artists, producers, and other professionals to achieve desired sound effects.

Skills: Sound Engineer, Audio Technician, Sound Production, Live Sound, Recording Engineer, Mixing and Editing.
Job industry: Entertainment

How much does Sound Engineer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Sound Engineer a well paid job?

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

What is considered a high salary for Sound Engineer?

High salary for Sound Engineer would be somewhere between 48,822 USD and 64,357 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Sound Engineer 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: 44,384 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 3,699 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 854 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 21 USD per hour
By working as Sound Engineer a person can save up to 1,412 USD per month or 16,948 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 Sound Engineer

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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