Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance pay in California
In California, the median pay for makeup artists, theatrical and performance is $67.73 an hour ($140,870 a year). About 830 people work in this job there.
That is 45% higher than the U.S. median ($97,150). California ranks 2nd of 6 states and territories for this job’s median pay.
Pay range for makeup artists, theatrical and performance in California
| Earns more than | Hourly | Yearly |
|---|---|---|
| 10% of workers | $36.70 | $76,340 |
| 25% of workers | $60.00 | $124,800 |
| Half of workers (median) | $67.73 | $140,870 |
| 75% of workers | $68.96 | $143,450 |
| 90% of workers | $81.54 | $169,590 |
Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance pay in California metro areas
| Metro area | Median yearly pay | People in this job |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $140,870 | 780 |
California unemployment rate: 5.1% (August 2026), U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Education, experience and outlook for makeup artists, theatrical and performance
- Typical education to start: Postsecondary nondegree award (BLS)
- Related work experience most have: 1 to 2 years (O*NET)
- Job outlook: +6.1% over ten years, faster than average · about 600 openings a year (BLS)
Related jobs in California
| Job | Median yearly pay |
|---|---|
| Manicurists and Pedicurists | $36,630 |
| Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists | $38,660 |
| Skincare Specialists | $38,770 |
| Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators | $58,240 |
| Costume Attendants | $72,030 |
| Barbers | $38,380 |
Other job titles for this job
Open makeup artists, theatrical and performance jobs on JAI Bot
No open jobs in this field right now. Search all jobs or set up a free job alert.
Hiring makeup artists, theatrical and performance? Use the free hiring guide for a job description and interview questions, then post the job on JAI Bot. Every job shows typical pay to job seekers.
Post a job freeFind jobsCheck pay for any jobSource: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025 estimates. Figures are for wage and salary workers and do not include the self-employed. The median is the middle wage: half earn more, half earn less. Other job titles: O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license; O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. JAI Bot has modified this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.