Lighting Designer salary in United States Of America

Average Yearly Salary of Lighting Designer in United States Of America is approximately 68,037 USD (68,043 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 Lighting Designer do?

A lighting designer is a professional responsible for creating and implementing lighting designs for various events and productions. They collaborate with directors, set designers, and other members of the production team to create the desired atmosphere and enhance the visual impact of the performance or space. The occupation requires a combination of artistic creativity, technical knowledge, and an understanding of the practical aspects of lighting equipment. The lighting designer's role involves designing and programming lighting cues, selecting and positioning lighting fixtures, and controlling the intensity, color, and direction of light. They work closely with the team to ensure that the lighting design complements and enhances the overall vision of the production. Additionally, they may also be responsible for managing the budget, coordinating equipment rentals, and overseeing the installation and operation of the lighting system.

Skills: Lighting Designer, Lighting Design, Stage Lighting, Creative Lighting, Lighting Technology, Visual Impact
Job industry: Entertainment

How much does Lighting Designer make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Lighting Designer a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Lighting Designer 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 Lighting Designer?

High salary for Lighting Designer would be somewhere between 74,841 USD and 98,654 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Lighting Designer in United States Of America?

Living in United States Of America 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: 68,037 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 5,670 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,308 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 33 USD per hour
By working as Lighting Designer a person can save up to 3,390 USD per month or 40,683 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 Of America, see costs of living in United States Of America.

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 Lighting Designer

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 Of America

Data as of 2025

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