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Models Salary in California

Last updated: 2025 BLS data · Page refreshed:

How much do Models make in California?

Last updated: 2025 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics

$57,400
Median Annual Salary
▼ -8.0% vs 2024
$72,810
Mean Salary
$57,400
Median Salary
$27.60
Hourly Rate
990 people work as Models in California

Models salary by percentile in California

BLS-reported salary distribution — from entry-level (10th percentile) to top earners (90th percentile).

Models salary in California — 2025 BLS percentilesHorizontal bars showing 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 90th percentile annual salaries for Models in California.10thBottom 10% earn less than $35,400$35,40025th25% earn less than $35,400$35,400MedianHalf earn more than $57,400$57,40075th75% earn less than $107,900$107,90090thTop 10% earn more than $131,470$131,470

Models in California earn a median salary of $57,400 per year ($4,783/month). This is 9.9% above the national average of $52,231. California ranks #4 out of 16 states for Models pay. Approximately 990 people work in this occupation across California. Salaries decreased by 8.0% compared to 2024.

About This Job: Models

Model garments or other apparel and accessories for prospective buyers at fashion shows, private showings, or retail establishments. May pose for photos to be used in magazines or advertisements. May pose as subject for paintings, sculptures, and other types of artistic expression.

Top Skills

Social Perceptiveness
2.88
Active Listening
2.75
Speaking
2.75
Critical Thinking
2.62
Coordination
2.62

Key Knowledge Areas

Customer and Personal Service
2.72
English Language
2.48
Fine Arts
2.38
Transportation
1.84
Communications and Media
1.78
Typical Education: High School Diploma or Equivalent (76.3% of workers)

Source: O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor

Salary Range: Models in California

Salaries for Models in California range from $35,400 at the 10th percentile (entry level) to $131,470 at the 90th percentile (experienced). The middle 50% earn between $35,400 and $107,900.

Median $57,400
P10: $35,400 P25: $35,400 P75: $107,900 P90: $131,470
10th
$35,400
25th
$35,400
Median
$57,400
75th
$107,900
90th
$131,470
Percentile Annual Salary Hourly Rate Monthly
10th Percentile (Entry Level) $35,400 $17.02 $2,950
25th Percentile $35,400 $17.02 $2,950
Median (50th) $57,400 $27.60 $4,783
75th Percentile $107,900 $51.88 $8,991
90th Percentile (Experienced) $131,470 $63.21 $10,955

Note: The mean (average) salary of $72,810 differs from the median because salary distributions are typically skewed by high earners.

📊 How Does This Compare?

#4
California ranks #4 of 16 states
$52,231
National avg. for Models
+9.9%
vs. national average
Above Average

Similar Jobs That Pay More in California:

What does this salary really buy? See Models salary in California adjusted for cost of living →

How much do you actually take home? See Models take-home pay in California after taxes →

Explore Models Data in California

Models Salary by State

Compare Models pay across states — sorted by highest median salary.

View all 50 states →

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Models make in California?
The median annual salary for Models in California is $57,400 as of 2025. The average (mean) salary is $72,810.
What is the salary range for a Models in California?
Salaries for Models in California range from $35,400 at the 10th percentile to $131,470 at the 90th percentile. The middle 50% earn between $35,400 and $107,900.
What is the starting salary for a Models in California?
Entry-level Models positions in California typically start around $35,400 (10th percentile). With some experience, salaries rise to $35,400 (25th percentile).
How many people work as Models in California?
According to 2025 BLS data, approximately 990 people are employed as Models in California.
What is the hourly rate for a Models in California?
Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, the median hourly rate for a Models in California is approximately $27.60 per hour.

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Data Source & Methodology

Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, 2025 estimates. The OEWS survey covers approximately 1.1 million establishments nationwide.

Annual salaries are calculated based on a standard 2,080-hour work year. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, education, employer, and local market conditions. Figures do not include benefits, bonuses, or overtime pay.

Our Methodology · Data Sources · Source: BLS OEWS

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