Makeup Artist Salaries

Position

Salary

How much does a Makeup Artist make?

The average salary for a Makeup Artist is $63,321 per year in the US.

Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Makeup Artist positions, showing an average salary of $63,321 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Makeup Artist positions, showing an average salary of $63,321 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Makeup Artist positions, showing an average salary of $63,321 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Makeup Artist positions, showing an average salary of $63,321 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

A makeup artist can earn a good living. On average, they make $63,321 a year. This can vary based on experience, location, and the type of work they do. Many makeup artists find steady work in the fashion, film, and television industries.

Most makeup artists start at the lower end of the salary range. With experience, they can move up. The top earners make over $200,000 a year. A few key factors affect earnings. Freelance artists may make more or less than those working for a studio. Artists who travel for work can also earn more. Specializing in a niche, such as special effects makeup, can lead to higher pay.

What are the highest paying cities for a Makeup Artist?

Cities like Nashville, TN, and Boston, MA, offer top pay for Makeup Artists. On average, Makeup Artists in Nashville earn over $100,000 a year. In Boston, they can expect an average salary close to $72,000 annually. These cities provide excellent opportunities for those skilled in the craft. Additionally, Makeup Artists in Los Angeles and Chicago also enjoy competitive salaries. Los Angeles offers an average salary around $65,000, while Chicago provides nearly $60,000. These major cities often have more job openings and a demand for specialized skills. Cities like Orlando, San Francisco, and Dallas also offer solid pay, making them good options to consider.

Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Makeup Artist jobs, highlighting Nashville, TN with the highest at $100,240 and Atlanta, GA with the lowest at $45,745.

Nashville, TN
Average Salary: $100,240
Nashville's vibrant music scene presents unique opportunities for creatives. Working here means collaborating with artists and models. Companies like B.E.A.R. & Co. offer exciting projects.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $71,979
In Boston, you will find a mix of traditional and innovative beauty trends. This city's diverse clientele allows for a wide range of styles. Studios such as Glam By Vanessa cater to this variety.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $64,877
L.A. is a hub for entertainment, making it a top choice for those in the industry. The city offers endless opportunities to work with celebrities. Renowned companies like Smashbox provide top-tier experiences.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $59,964
Chicago's fashion industry brings a mix of classic and modern styles. Working here lets you explore different looks and techniques. Salons such as Modern Salon offer diverse projects.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $54,934
Orlando's theme parks and events create a high demand for themed looks. This city offers a lively environment for creativity. Studios like Glamorous by Gina showcase vibrant opportunities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $52,787
San Francisco's unique style scene combines bohemian and chic elements. The city’s progressive nature allows for innovative trends. Brands like Urban Decay offer exciting projects.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $50,067
Dallas's growing tech scene brings fresh opportunities for those in the field. The city offers a blend of classic and modern beauty trends. Salons like Salon Sixty6 provide varied projects.
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Raleigh, NC
Average Salary: $48,812
Raleigh’s blend of traditional and modern beauty trends offers a diverse work environment. The city's growing arts scene provides interesting projects. Studios like Lush Beauty offer unique opportunities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $48,675
Houston's vibrant culture and diverse population create a rich environment for beauty artists. The city offers numerous opportunities for growth. Salons like The Glam Room provide engaging projects.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $45,745
Atlanta’s entertainment industry brings a mix of film, television, and fashion. Working here means collaborating with a variety of creatives. Companies like Redken offer exciting experiences.
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What are the best companies a Makeup Artist can work for?

L'Oréal pays the highest average salary for makeup artists at $45,533 annually. Blo Blow Dry Bar offers an average of $44,088 each year. Cady pays $38,640 on average, making these top companies for those seeking a lucrative career in makeup artistry.

Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Makeup Artist jobs, highlighting L'Oréal with the highest at $45,533 and Cady with the lowest at $38,640.

L'Oréal
Average Salary: $45,533
L'Oréal offers exciting opportunities for Makeup Artists in its beauty divisions. It operates globally with key locations in Paris, France, and New York, USA. This company provides a chance to work with top brands and participate in innovative beauty projects.
Blo Blow Dry Bar
Average Salary: $44,088
Blo Blow Dry Bar is a leading salon chain known for its quality services and stylish environment. It has numerous locations across the United States, including major cities like Los Angeles and Chicago. Working here means being part of a dynamic team focused on client satisfaction.
Cady
Average Salary: $38,640
Cady is a popular hair and makeup salon with multiple locations across Canada. It provides a creative setting where Makeup Artists can showcase their skills. Operating in cities such as Toronto and Vancouver, this company values artistic talent and professional development.

How to earn more as a Makeup Artist?

Makeup artists can find several ways to increase their earnings. By refining skills and expanding services, opportunities for higher income increase. Building a strong personal brand can make a significant difference in income potential. Networking with industry professionals and attending workshops can open doors to higher-paying gigs. Another key strategy is to market oneself effectively, showcasing work through social media and a professional portfolio.

Additionally, setting competitive pricing and being open to negotiating fees can lead to better pay. Consider specializing in a niche such as bridal makeup or special effects to command higher rates. Gaining certifications or licenses can enhance credibility and open up more lucrative job opportunities. Offering add-on services like consultations or product sales can also boost earnings. Persistence and continuous learning are essential for long-term success in this competitive field.

Here are some key factors to consider:

Refine skills and expand services
Build a strong personal brand
Network with industry professionals
Market effectively through social media
Specialize in a niche

How much does a Makeup Artist make?

What are the highest paying cities for a Makeup Artist?

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

How to earn more as a Makeup Artist?

Currently 82 Makeup Artist job openings, nationwide.

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

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