Music Directors and Composers Salary in California
Music Directors and Composers in California earn a median of $93,090 a year, +26% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $93,090
- vs. U.S. median
- +26% ($73,710)
- Rank among states
- 2 of 30
- Jobs in the state
- 2,510
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $48,600; the top 10% earn over $175,670. Nationally the range is $39,880 to $165,760.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Talent Directors$129,790 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Art Directors$137,780 median in California
- Choreographers$75,000 median in California
- Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers$86,480 median in California (broader BLS group)
- Producers and Directors$129,790 median in California
- Graphic Designers$75,130 median in California
Music Directors and Composers pay in California
How much do music directors and composers make in California?
The median is $93,090 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $48,600 and the top 10% earn over $175,670. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for music directors and composers?
On pay alone it ranks 2 of 30 (+26% vs. the national median of $73,710). Living costs are not included.