How much does a Model make?

The average salary for a Model is $53,729 per year in United States. Salaries estimates are based on 909 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by a Model employees in United States.

The highest salary for a Model in United States is $72,248 per year.

The lowest salary for a Model in United States is $40,296 per year.

If you are thinking of becoming a Model or planning the next step in your career, find details about the role, the career path and salary trajectory of a Model.

Models can choose to find work themselves as freelancers or to be represented by an agency. In either situation, pay is low while a model establishes themselves in the industry, but it has the potential to rise drastically. Early-career models often work for free to build a portfolio and increase their visibility. Mid-career models often work part-time and experience periods of unemployment. Elite models, however, have the potential to earn salaries and fame on par with high-performing professional athletes.

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About 64% of models on Glassdoor rate themselves as satisfied with their current salaries. On average, models can earn an additional $4,806.85 every year. This, along with their base salary, may contribute to good compensation.

The amount a model earns varies widely, depending on a wide range of factors, including gender, age, appearance, industry level, niche, and location. Across all of these experience levels and niches, however, models earn between $31,162.59 and $93,998.22 every year. The average model makes about $53,728.61. While there's no seniority in this position, you'll earn more by gaining experience and creating a high-quality portfolio.

Keep up with fashion industry research if you want to maximize your salary as a model. Working with industry-leading brands pays much higher than collaborating with local indie brands and will score you more high-paying gigs. You should also know where you fit within the industry, such as high fashion or commercial work, and build a quality portfolio within this niche. Your portfolio is your biggest marketing tool, so it should show off your absolute best. Consider time spent working; some jobs are a week long, while another photoshoot might require just a few hours of your time. Working with an agent could also score you higher-paying roles.

Negotiating contracts for model roles can be difficult, but many factors work into the deal. Along with model salary, always consider travel to and from the shooting/runway location, meals, accommodation, and any clothing/beauty supplies required by you. While models with experience and solid portfolios can reasonably request a number 10% to 20% above the one offered after each contract, models often lose out by not factoring in benefits. Since modeling is a contract gig, employers vary widely in what they offer, and many cover travel expenses, accommodations, and meals. Others might accommodate your salary request but not cover these, so consider the value of each.

About 64.30% of Model professionals feel satisfied with their salary, according to anonymous Glassdoor ratings. An additional $4,807 in potential pay per year, among other factors, can qualify the annual pay of a Model in United States as a good salary.

Model professionals in United States have a wide total pay range, between $31,163 and $93,998 depending on experience, with an estimated total pay of $53,729 following the average career path of a Model.