Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators Hourly Pay
As of May 2025, the median hourly wage for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in the United States was $26.68, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OES survey.
Hourly Wage Percentiles
| Percentile | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| 10th | $15.21 |
| 25th | $18.06 |
| Median | $26.68 |
| 75th | $40.00 |
| 90th | $69.33 |
Data source: BLS OES national file · U.S. BLS OES survey, May 2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators make an hour?
The median hourly wage is $26.68; the mean hourly wage is $35.17.
What is the entry-level hourly pay for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators?
Workers at the 10th percentile earn about $15.21 per hour — a common proxy for entry-level pay.
What is the top hourly pay for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators?
Workers at the 90th percentile earn about $69.33 per hour.