SOC 3411 Culture, media and sports occupations

Artists Salary

Salary data from ONS ASHE. Some figures may be unavailable due to small sample sizes.

For artists, £47,763 is the typical (median) pay. That is above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +22% versus the national average.

About this role

Artists create original works of visual art including paintings, sculptures, prints, installations and mixed media. They develop concepts, select materials and techniques, exhibit work and may teach or undertake commissions alongside their own creative practice.

Key responsibilities

Developing artistic concepts and creative projects
Creating original artworks using chosen media and techniques
Exhibiting and selling work through galleries and exhibitions
Applying for funding, residencies and commissions
Promoting work through social media and professional networks

Qualifications and entry routes

Typically holds a degree in fine art (BA/MA). Portfolio quality is more important than qualifications for career progression. Postgraduate study and residencies provide development opportunities.

Career outlook

Highly competitive with most artists combining practice with teaching, commissions or other employment. Arts Council England funding and public art commissions provide income opportunities.

Key skills

Creative vision Technical art skills Self-promotion Business management Critical thinking

Common industries

Gallery representation
Public art commissions
Art education
Community arts
Commercial illustration

Data coverage

SOC code 3411

Data source ONS ASHE

Years available 2015–2025

Median Salary

N/A

Mean Salary

£33,815

Jobs (000s)

N/A

Data Years

11 years

Salary Trend (2015-2025)

Adjust for inflation

Nominal growth: +56.5%Real growth: +17.7%

Artists salary: common questions

How much do artists earn in the UK?

Artists earn a median of £47,763 a year (ONS ASHE 2025).

Is £47,763 a good salary in the UK?

For artists, £47,763 is the typical (median) pay. That is above the UK full-time median of £39,039 — +22% versus the national average.

Have artists salaries kept up with inflation?

Since 2015, median artists pay has risen from £26,681 to £47,763 — +79% in cash terms, or +30% after CPIH inflation. That is ahead of inflation over the period.

Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).