Entertainment, tech, aerospace — sprawling and high-paying. Here's how Photographers 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) | $47,100 | $35,800 | $61,300 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $58,600 | $44,500 | $76,200 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $67,400 | $51,200 | $87,600 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $80,800 | $61,400 | $105,100 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $91,600 | $69,600 | $119,100 |
Highest-paying metros for Photographers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Los Angeles metro economy.
The average Photographer salary in the Los Angeles metro is $67,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $51,200 to $87,600 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $111,200 or more.
Yes — Los Angeles pays -5% relative to the California state median for Photographers. 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 Photographers — though cost of living in Los Angeles is also typically elevated.
In Los Angeles, the median Photographer salary of $67,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Photographers in Los Angeles start around $47,100, while seniors (10+ years) reach $80,800 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.
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