Position
Salary

How much does a Makeup Artist make?

The average salary for a Makeup Artist is $59,071 per year in the US.

A makeup artist creates looks for people in many different settings. This can include film, television, and theater. It can also include work in fashion shows, photo shoots, and even for private clients. The average yearly salary for a makeup artist is around $59,071. This can vary depending on the artist's experience and the type of work they do.

Makeup artists can earn different amounts based on where they work and what they specialize in. For example, those working in film and television often earn more than those working in other areas. The top-earning makeup artists can make over $170,000 a year. This is often due to their high level of skill and experience. Many makeup artists also earn extra money through tips and commissions.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Makeup Artist?

Makeup artists can find top-paying jobs in Nashville, TN, where the average salary reaches $95,831. Boston, MA, and Los Angeles, CA, follow closely with average salaries of $75,392 and $73,723, respectively. These cities offer great opportunities for those in the beauty industry.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Makeup Artist jobs, highlighting Nashville, TN with the highest at $95,831 and Houston, TX with the lowest at $46,106.
  1. Nashville, TN
    Average Salary: $95,831
    Nashville offers a vibrant music scene with many opportunities for artists. With country music giants like Grand Ole Opry, the demand for skilled artists is high. Many beauty brands and local salons seek professionals for events and photoshoots.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Nashville, TN


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $75,392
    Boston's rich history and diverse culture make it a great place for artists. The city hosts many fashion weeks and film festivals. Companies like L'Oréal and Estée Lauder often look for talented artists to work on their campaigns.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $73,723
    LA is the heart of Hollywood, offering endless opportunities for artists. The city is home to major film and TV studios. Working with top celebrities and production companies is a common experience here.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  4. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $72,625
    Chicago's fashion industry is booming. The city is known for its unique style and fashion events. Many high-end salons and fashion houses look for skilled artists to work on runway shows and photo shoots.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Chicago, IL


  5. Las Vegas, NV
    Average Salary: $60,376
    Las Vegas is a city that never sleeps, offering many opportunities for artists. The city hosts countless events, including conventions and shows. Working with top hotels and casinos can be very rewarding.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Las Vegas, NV


  6. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $53,129
    San Francisco is a tech hub with a vibrant arts scene. The city is known for its progressive fashion and beauty trends. Many startups and established companies seek artists for their events and campaigns.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  7. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $50,921
    Dallas offers a mix of traditional and modern opportunities for artists. The city's growing tech industry and fashion scene provide many job openings. Working with local beauty brands and fashion events is common.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Dallas, TX


  8. Orlando, FL
    Average Salary: $50,711
    Orlando is famous for its theme parks and entertainment industry. The city offers many opportunities for artists to work on events and photoshoots. Disney and Universal Studios are prominent employers in the area.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Orlando, FL


  9. Raleigh, NC
    Average Salary: $49,000
    Raleigh is a growing city with a strong arts community. The Research Triangle Park offers many tech and research opportunities. Local beauty brands and fashion events seek skilled artists for various projects.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Raleigh, NC


  10. Houston, TX
    Average Salary: $46,106
    Houston is a diverse city with a thriving energy sector. The city offers many opportunities for artists to work on events and photoshoots. Local beauty brands and fashion houses often look for talented professionals.
    Find Makeup Artist jobs in Houston, TX

What are the best companies a Makeup Artist can work for?

The Estée Lauder Companies offers the highest average salary for makeup artists, at $56,701. This company provides a competitive pay package and many opportunities for career growth. Live Nation also pays well, with an average salary of $48,424, making it another great option for those in the field.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Makeup Artist jobs, highlighting The Estée Lauder Companies with the highest at $56,701 and Cady with the lowest at $38,694.
  1. The Estée Lauder Companies
    Average Salary: $56,701
    The Estée Lauder Companies offers exciting opportunities for Makeup Artists in various locations. They focus on creating high-quality beauty products and provide a creative environment for professionals. Locations include New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.


  2. Live Nation
    Average Salary: $48,424
    Live Nation provides Makeup Artists with dynamic roles at events and concerts. They offer a chance to work in a fast-paced setting with a diverse range of clients. Locations include major cities across the United States.


  3. Blo Blow Dry Bar
    Average Salary: $41,022
    Blo Blow Dry Bar is a popular salon chain that offers Makeup Artist positions. They focus on providing a welcoming atmosphere for clients and offer training opportunities. Locations include cities across the United States.


  4. Cady
    Average Salary: $38,694
    Cady is a well-known beauty salon that offers Makeup Artist jobs. They emphasize customer service and provide a supportive environment for professionals. Locations include major cities in the United States.

How to earn more as a Makeup Artist?

Aspiring makeup artists can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Building a strong portfolio showcases talent and versatility, attracting more clients. Networking with other professionals in the beauty industry can lead to referrals and collaborations. Specializing in a niche, such as bridal makeup or special effects, can command higher rates. Investing in continuous education and staying updated with the latest trends ensures skills remain competitive. Lastly, marketing oneself effectively through social media and a professional website can attract a broader clientele.

To maximize earnings, consider these factors. First, enhance skills through workshops and courses. Second, offer additional services like skincare consultations or makeup tutorials. Third, set competitive pricing based on experience and market rates. Fourth, provide excellent customer service to encourage repeat business. Finally, seek out high-profile events or clients for potential higher pay. By focusing on these areas, a makeup artist can significantly increase their income.

Currently 53 Makeup Artist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Makeup Artist in the US?

Learn what a Makeup Artist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Makeup Artist today.
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Makeup Artist
53 Job Openings