Music Directors and Composers in New York
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | New York | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,230 | $63,670 | +26.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #2 of 32 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 1,610 jobs | 12,330 jobs | 13.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in New York
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,890 | $17.73 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,230 | $24.63 |
| Median | $80,230 | $38.57 |
| 75th Percentile | $130,590 | $62.78 |
| 90th Percentile | $238,300 | $114.57 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Music Directors and Composers in New York in 2026?
With a median salary of $80,230 in New York and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +49.6%, music directors and composers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can music directors and composers increase their salary in New York?
Music Directors and Composers in New York 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: New York 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 Music Directors and Composers in New York?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $96,590 |
| Civic and Social Organizations | $92,930 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $75,860 |
How are Music Directors and Composers paid in New York compared to the national average?
The median salary for Music Directors and Composers in New York is $80,230, which is 26.0% above the national median of $63,670.