Media & Communications Rapid City, SD
Pop. 74,703
Photographer Salary in Rapid City, South Dakota
The median photographer salary in Rapid City, SD is $36,180 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 2.3% above the South Dakota state average.
City Median
$36,180
vs State Avg
+$804
vs National
$-4,020
Cost of Living
90%
Photographer Salary in Rapid City by Experience
In Rapid City, 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.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$23,400
$-2,600 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$37,800
$-4,200 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$67,500
$-7,500 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Rapid City, SD
| Percentile | Rapid City |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $21,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,000 |
| Median (50th) | $36,180 |
| 75th Percentile | $52,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,800 |
Photographer Salary in Other South Dakota Cities
How to Become a Photographer in Rapid City
Education
Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Rapid City and the surrounding South Dakota area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
PhotographyLightroom/PhotoshopLightingCompositionPhoto EditingClient Management
Job Outlook
Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Rapid City may vary based on local industry and population growth.