Photographer Salary in Saint Louis, MO
How much does a photographer make in Saint Louis? Explore median, entry-level, and senior salaries adjusted for Saint Louis's cost of living.
Salary Breakdown by Experience Level
See how photographer salaries break down across different pay periods in Saint Louis.
| Period | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual | $27,757 | $49,346 | $74,019 |
| Monthly | $2,313 | $4,112 | $6,168 |
| Biweekly | $1,068 | $1,898 | $2,847 |
| Weekly | $534 | $949 | $1,423 |
| Hourly | $13 | $24 | $36 |
Saint Louis vs National Average
How Saint Louis's photographer salaries compare to national figures.
Cost of Living in Saint Louis
About Photographer
Overview
Capture images for clients and organizations.
Education
High school diploma; certificate or degree in photography preferred
Key Skills
Growth Rate
Expected job growth: +16% over the next decade
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Photographer Salary in Saint Louis, MO — Complete Guide
Median Salary Overview
The median salary for a photographer in Saint Louis, MO is $49,346 per year, adjusted for the local cost of living index of 94. This figure reflects typical earnings for experienced professionals in this role, considering Saint Louis's unique economic conditions.
Salary Range and Experience Levels
Entry-level photographer professionals in Saint Louis can expect to earn around $27,757 annually. As professionals gain experience, salaries typically increase, with senior-level photographers earning approximately $74,019 per year. This represents a 167% increase from entry to senior level.
Cost of Living Adjustment
Saint Louis's cost of living index of 94 significantly impacts salary comparisons. As a lower cost-of-living city, salaries in Saint Louis are adjusted accordingly. This means that while the nominal salary may appear higher or lower than the national average of $61,760, the actual purchasing power must be considered in context.
Housing and Affordability
A significant portion of a photographer's salary in Saint Louis typically goes toward housing. With a 1-bedroom apartment averaging $1,200 per month, housing represents about 29.2% of median salary. Financial experts generally recommend keeping housing expenses below 30% of gross income.
Career Growth and Opportunities
Photographers are in growing demand across the United States, with an expected job growth of 16% over the next decade. In Saint Louis, this translates to increasing opportunities and potential for salary growth as demand for experienced professionals continues to rise.