Photographer Salary in Hawaii
The median photographer salary in Hawaii is $68,340 per year, which is 70.0% above the national median of $40,200.
Photographer Salary Overview in Hawaii (2026)
Hawaii ranks #1 out of 50 states for photographer compensation. This places Hawaii in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for photographers seeking high pay. At $68,340 per year, photographers in Hawaii earn $28,140 more than the national median of $40,200.
It's worth noting that Hawaii's cost of living is 170% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $68,340 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $40,200.
The salary spread in Hawaii is significant: photographers at the 10th percentile earn $40,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $139,400 — a $98,600 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Hawaii for this role is Honolulu, where the median reaches $70,350.
Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for photographers across the country.
Photographer Salary in Hawaii by Experience
In Hawaii, an entry-level photographer earns around $44,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $127,500 per year. The cost of living index in Hawaii is 170% of the national average.
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| Percentile | HI Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $40,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,000 |
| Median (50th) | $68,340 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,600 |
| 90th Percentile | $139,400 |
Photographer Salary by City in Hawaii
The largest employment areas for photographers in Hawaii include Honolulu, Pearl City, Hilo, and Kailua. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Photographer in Hawaii
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Hawaii has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Hawaii
Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Hawaii's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Photographers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $59,160 over your career trajectory.
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