Pay by Role
China · Salary comparison

Architect vs Photographer salary

In China, a architect earns about 65% more than a photographer $75,664 vs $45,870 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is CNY). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Pays more
Creative
Architect
$75,664/yr
Monthly
$6,313
Hourly
$36
Range
$48,422$108,953
10-yr outlook
+5%
Creative
Photographer
$45,870/yr
Monthly
$3,820
Hourly
$22
Range
$27,286$68,570
10-yr outlook
+4%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileArchitectPhotographer
Entry (10th)$48,422$27,286
25th$62,051$36,578
Median$75,664$45,870
75th$92,316$57,227
Senior (90th)$108,953$68,570

National China figures in CNY. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Creative comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a architect or photographer earn more in China?
A architect earns more, at about ¥513,000 per year vs ¥311,000 for a photographer — roughly 65% (¥202,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in China?
A architect typically earns ¥328,300–¥738,700, while a photographer earns ¥185,000–¥464,900 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in China?
On a monthly basis before tax, a architect averages about ¥42,800 and a photographer about ¥25,900.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in China, a architect earns about ¥328,300 while a photographer earns about ¥185,000 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in China, a architect earns about ¥738,700 while a photographer earns about ¥464,900 per year.
Are architect and photographer similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Creative category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.