Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Art Directors in Los Angeles get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Los Angeles metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $106,100 | $80,600 | $137,900 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $131,800 | $100,200 | $171,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $151,600 | $115,200 | $197,100 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $181,900 | $138,200 | $236,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $206,100 | $156,600 | $268,000 |
Highest-paying metros for Art Directors — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Art Director salary in the Los Angeles metro is $151,600 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $115,200 to $197,100 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $250,100 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays -5% relative to the California state median for Art Directors. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Los Angeles vs. national: +34%. That puts Los Angeles among the stronger US markets for Art Directors — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Art Director salary of $151,600 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Art Directors in Los Angeles start around $106,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $181,900 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
Get my personal salary report →