Makeup Artists Salary in California
Makeup Artists in California earn a median of $140,870 a year, +45% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $140,870
- vs. U.S. median
- +45% ($97,150)
- Rank among states
- 2 of 6
- Jobs in the state
- 830
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $76,340; the top 10% earn over $169,590. Nationally the range is $23,360 to $167,470.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Floral Designers$47,040 median in California
- Art Directors$137,780 median in California
- Merchandise Displayers and Window Trimmers$47,010 median in California
- Choreographers$75,000 median in California
- Interior Designers$80,230 median in California
- Music Directors and Composers$93,090 median in California
Makeup Artists pay in California
How much do makeup artists make in California?
The median is $140,870 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $76,340 and the top 10% earn over $169,590. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for makeup artists?
On pay alone it ranks 2 of 6 (+45% vs. the national median of $97,150). Living costs are not included.