Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $140,080 | $60,560 | +131.3% vs US |
| State Rank | #1 of 38 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 1,760 jobs | 10,000 jobs | 17.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,950 | $30.75 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,950 | $41.80 |
| Median | $140,080 | $67.35 |
| 75th Percentile | $167,240 | $80.41 |
| 90th Percentile | $226,440 | $108.87 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $140,080 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +138.2%, fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators increase their salary in California?
Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 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 #1 out of 38 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 Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $87,050 |
| Software Publishers | $83,270 |
| Publishing Industries | $83,270 |
How are Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in California is $140,080, which is 131.3% above the national median of $60,560.