Craft Artists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,980 | $38,480 | +55.9% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 32 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 290 jobs | 4,370 jobs | 6.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $48,880 | $23.50 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,240 | $25.11 |
| Median | $59,980 | $28.84 |
| 75th Percentile | $115,170 | $55.37 |
| 90th Percentile | $174,990 | $84.13 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Craft Artists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $59,980 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +21.5%, craft artists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can craft artists increase their salary in California?
Craft Artists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #2 out of 32 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Craft Artists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Motion Picture and Sound Recording Industries | $104,120 |
| Motion Picture and Video Industries | $104,120 |
| Temporary Help Services | $81,690 |
How are Craft Artists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Craft Artists in California is $59,980, which is 55.9% above the national median of $38,480.