Photographer vs Social Media Manager salary
In United States, a social media manager earns about 15% more than a photographer — $73,100 vs $63,500 per year.
Showing amounts in USD (USD default). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies
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Creative
Social Media Manager$73,100/yr
- Monthly
- $6,100
- Hourly
- $35
- Range
- $46,800–$105,300
- 10-yr outlook
- +10%
Pay range, side by side
| Percentile | Photographer | Social Media Manager |
|---|---|---|
| Entry (10th) | $37,800 | $46,800 |
| 25th | $50,600 | $59,900 |
| Median | $63,500 | $73,100 |
| 75th | $79,200 | $89,200 |
| Senior (90th) | $94,900 | $105,300 |
National United States figures in USD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.
More Creative comparisons
Frequently asked questions
- Does a photographer or social media manager earn more in United States?
- A social media manager earns more, at about $73,100 per year vs $63,500 for a photographer — roughly 15% ($9,600) more.
- What is the salary range for these roles in United States?
- A photographer typically earns $37,800–$94,900, while a social media manager earns $46,800–$105,300 per year.
- How much do these jobs pay per month in United States?
- On a monthly basis before tax, a photographer averages about $5,300 and a social media manager about $6,100.
- How do entry-level salaries compare?
- At the 10th percentile in United States, a photographer earns about $37,800 while a social media manager earns about $46,800 per year.
- How do senior-level salaries compare?
- At the 90th percentile in United States, a photographer earns about $94,900 while a social media manager earns about $105,300 per year.
- Are photographer and social media manager 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.