Photographer Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median photographer salary in Athens, GA is $36,180 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Photographer Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median photographer salary of $36,180, which is $1,206 below the Georgia state average of $37,386. Compared to the national median of $40,200, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for photographers in Athens spans from $21,600 at the 10th percentile to $73,800 at the 90th percentile — a $52,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $23,400, while senior photographers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $67,500. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Photographer Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level photographer earns around $23,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $67,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $21,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,000 |
| Median (50th) | $36,180 |
| 75th Percentile | $52,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,800 |
Photographer Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Athens
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Athens and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Photographer Jobs in Athens
Browse open photographer positions in Athens, GA: