Photographer Salary in Paterson, New Jersey
The median photographer salary in Paterson, NJ is $42,210 per year, which is 5.0% above the national median and 8.7% below the New Jersey state average.
Photographer Pay in Paterson: What to Expect (2026)
Paterson offers a median photographer salary of $42,210, which is $4,020 below the New Jersey state average of $46,230. Compared to the national median of $40,200, Paterson pays above average for this role.
Paterson's cost of living is 105% 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 Paterson spans from $25,200 at the 10th percentile to $86,100 at the 90th percentile — a $60,900 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $27,300, while senior photographers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $78,750. With a population of 159,732, Paterson is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Photographer Salary in Paterson by Experience
In Paterson, an entry-level photographer earns around $27,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $78,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 105% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Paterson, NJ
| Percentile | Paterson |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,500 |
| Median (50th) | $42,210 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $86,100 |
Photographer Salary in Other New Jersey Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Paterson
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Paterson and the surrounding New Jersey 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 Paterson may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Photographer Jobs in Paterson
Browse open photographer positions in Paterson, NJ: