Photographer Salary in Albany, New York
The median photographer salary in Albany, NY is $39,396 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 19.7% below the New York state average.
Photographer Pay in Albany: What to Expect (2026)
Albany offers a median photographer salary of $39,396, which is $9,648 below the New York state average of $49,044. Compared to the national median of $40,200, Albany pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Albany's cost of living is 98% 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 Albany spans from $23,520 at the 10th percentile to $80,360 at the 90th percentile — a $56,840 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $25,480, while senior photographers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $73,500. Albany is a smaller market (pop. 99,224), which may mean fewer openings but also less competition for available positions.
Photographer Salary in Albany by Experience
In Albany, an entry-level photographer earns around $25,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Albany, NY
| Percentile | Albany |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $23,520 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,400 |
| Median (50th) | $39,396 |
| 75th Percentile | $56,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $80,360 |
Photographer Salary in Other New York Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Albany
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Albany and the surrounding New York 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 Albany may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Photographer Jobs in Albany
Browse open photographer positions in Albany, NY: