Models

SOC code 41-9012 · O*NET-SOC 41-9012.00 · Little to some preparation needed · Sales

Models pay

U.S. national figures, May 2025 BLS survey · How we got this number

Median pay

$48,470

a year

Hourly

$23.30

per hour

10th$34,190Median$48,47090th$131,470

The solid band is the middle 50% of workers; the bar spans the 10th to 90th percentile.

Average pay

$72,800

$35.00 per hour

Middle 50%

$35,710 – $99,320

25th to 75th percentile

Full spread

$34,190 – $131,470

10th to 90th percentile

People employed

3,780

nationwide

National U.S. figure, May 2025. Local pay can be higher or lower.

10th percentile: $34,190; $16.44/hr
25th percentile: $35,710; $17.17/hr
Median percentile: $48,470; $23.30/hr
75th percentile: $99,320; $47.75/hr
90th percentile: $131,470; $63.21/hr

Job outlook · federal projection 2024–34

-1%

Little or no change expected

6,700

jobs in 2024

6,700

projected for 2034

About 0 more jobs

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics employment projections, 2024–34. Projections describe the broader occupation group and are estimates, not guarantees.

What does a model do?

Model garments or other apparel and accessories for prospective buyers at fashion shows, private showings, or retail establishments. May pose for photos to be used in magazines or advertisements. May pose as subject for paintings, sculptures, and other types of artistic expression.

The tasks that matter most day to day

Record rates of pay and durations of jobs on vouchers.
Pose for artists and photographers.
Gather information from agents concerning the pay, dates, times, provisions, and lengths of jobs.
Report job completions to agencies and obtain information about future appointments.
Assemble and maintain portfolios, print composite cards, and travel to go-sees to obtain jobs.
Pose as directed, or strike suitable interpretive poses for promoting and selling merchandise or fashions during appearances, filming, or photo sessions.
Follow strict routines of diet, sleep, and exercise to maintain appearance.
Apply makeup to face and style hair to enhance appearance, considering such factors as color, camera techniques, and facial features.

How to become a model

Most people in this role hold high school diploma or the equivalent (such as a ged) — 76% of workers surveyed reported it as their level of education.

Preparation level: zone 2 — Little to some preparation needed

Education: Usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not.
Experience: Some occupations may need little or no previous experience; others require several months to a year of experience. For example, landscaping and groundskeeping workers might require very little training or previous experience, while agricultural equipment operators can benefit from on-the job training.
Training: Ranges from a few days to one year of on-the-job training.

See all zone 2 occupations →

Education reported by people doing this job

High School Diploma or the equivalent (such as a GED)76%
Less than a High School Diploma17%
Bachelor's Degree4%
Some College Courses2%

Common questions

How much does a model earn?

The national median is $48,470 a year. The full range runs from $34,190 at the 10th percentile to $131,470 at the 90th — entry pay sits closer to the lower figure, and experience, licensing and specialisation move you up the range.

Can you become a model without a degree?

Yes — this occupation sits in preparation zone 2, meaning the typical entry route is usually requires a high school diploma or GED, though some occupations may not. A four-year degree is not the standard requirement, though licensing or certification may still apply.

Is model in demand?

Federal projections expect employment to shrink by about 1% between 2024 and 2034 — little or no change expected. Openings also come from people retiring or changing jobs, which the growth figure does not count.

Skills and knowledge you need

Core skills

Active Listening2.8/5
Speaking2.8/5
Critical Thinking2.6/5
Reading Comprehension2.5/5

Knowledge areas

Customer and Personal Service2.7/5

Transferable strengths: Social Perceptiveness, Coordination, Time Management.