Producer and Director Salary in the United States
Based on 145K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$67,222
$32.318/hr
▲ 3.6% vs 2023Salary Range
$52K – $200K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
145K
workers nationwide
Producer and Director salary in the United States reflects the creative and business-focused roles these professionals hold across film, television, and media industries. The median salary stands at $67,222 annually, with approximately 145,070 workers currently employed in these positions. This compensation level represents a middle ground within the entertainment sector, where earnings vary significantly based on individual circumstances and career progression.
Several factors influence Producer and Director salary in the United States, including experience level, industry segment, geographic location, and project scale. Established directors working on major studio productions or high-budget television shows typically earn substantially more, while those beginning their careers or working in smaller markets may start closer to the lower end of the $51,600 to $200,230 range. Networking, reputation, and the ability to secure consistent work also play crucial roles in determining earning potential within this competitive field.
Salary Distribution — Producer and Director
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $51,600 |
| 25th percentile | $78,360 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $67,222 |
| 75th percentile | $170,720 |
| 90th percentile | $200,230 |
Producer and Director Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Producer and Director
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | $122,150 | +81.7% | 36K |
| 2 | New Jersey | $107,850 | +60.4% | 3K |
| 3 | New York | $104,010 | +54.7% | 30K |
| 4 | District of Columbia | $99,900 | +48.6% | 3K |
| 5 | Delaware | $93,930 | +39.7% | 90 |
| 6 | Connecticut | $85,710 | +27.5% | 2K |
| 7 | Florida | $81,240 | +20.9% | 8K |
| 8 | Oregon | $80,610 | +19.9% | 1K |
| 9 | Washington | $79,220 | +17.8% | 3K |
| 10 | Massachusetts | $79,100 | +17.7% | 4K |
Historical Salary Trend — Producer and Director
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $64,899 |
| 2023 | $64,909 |
| 2024 | $67,222 |
Producer and Director Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do producers and directors make per hour in the United States?
- The median hourly wage for producers and directors in the United States is $32/hour. This translates to a median annual salary of $67,222, though hourly rates can vary significantly depending on experience, location, and project type.
What is the salary range for producers and directors?
- Producer and director salaries in the United States range from $51,600 at the lower end to $200,230 at the upper end. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, location, industry segment, and career advancement.
Which state pays producers and directors the most?
- California offers the highest pay for producers and directors at $122,150 annually. This significantly exceeds the national median salary of $67,222, making it one of the most lucrative locations for these professionals.
How many producers and directors are employed in the US?
- There are approximately 145,070 producers and directors employed across the United States. This represents a substantial workforce in the film, television, and media production industries.