How much do costume designers charge?
John Peck
Updated on March 30, 2026
Hourly Wage for Costume Designer Salary
| Percentile | Hourly Pay Rate | Last Updated |
|---|---|---|
| 25th Percentile Costume Designer Salary | $18 | November 29, 2021 |
| 50th Percentile Costume Designer Salary | $19 | November 29, 2021 |
| 75th Percentile Costume Designer Salary | $21 | November 29, 2021 |
| 90th Percentile Costume Designer Salary | $23 | November 29, 2021 |
How do you get into the Costume Design industry?
Costume designers, who tend to have at least a bachelor’s degree and at most a master’s in costuming, usually get their start as costume makers. They might begin by working on college or community productions or interning for university costume departments. From there, they progress to become assistant designers.
What degree is needed for Costume Design?
A Bachelor’s Degree in either Costume Design or Fashion Design is recommended for this career. There are associate degree programs which meet the minimum requirements for employment, but a four-year bachelor’s degree program will improve your chances of being hired.
How much does a freelance costume designer make?
Starting salaries for qualified costume designers in the UK tend to be around £16,000 to £18,000 a year. Some experienced designers may be able to earn between £18,000 and £28,000 a year with highly experience designers earning £35.000.
How do I become a costume designer without a degree?
10 Simple Tips to Become A Fashion Designer Without A Degree
- Learn & improve your basic knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator and CAD.
- gain as much as you can from online courses on fashion related subjects.
- Start drawing & fill sketchbooks.
- Build up a solid portfolio of your ideas and creative designs.
How much does a costume designer make hourly?
The average wage for a costume designer in the United States is around $12.70 per hour.
Do costume designers need agents?
Having an agent can be a great boost for your career, get it right and it can absolutely be the right decision for a costume designer.
