💃 How much does a model make?
There’s no good number for what most models earn; many work part-time. The U.S. BLS median is $48,470 a year; Kendall Jenner’s top-model estimate was $22.5 million (Forbes, 2018).
Modeling work is often part-time with unpredictable gaps, while famous models can earn large fees from campaigns and other work.
US Most people, typical, the top
| Who | Yearly earnings | Based on |
|---|---|---|
| Models at the U.S. BLS median wage | $48,470 | BLS median wage, May 2025. |
| A top-model example Kendall Jenner (~$22.5 million, Forbes estimate for June 2017–June 2018) | $22.5M | Forbes estimate for 2017–2018; not a current ranking. |
Per month and per day
| Who | Per month | Per day (÷365) |
|---|---|---|
| Models at the U.S. BLS median wage | $4,039 | $133 |
| A top-model example | $1.88M | $61,644 |
Where does the money come from?
How do you become a model?
In the United States, no formal education credential is required. Prepare a portfolio, send photos to agencies or attend an open call, then build experience through bookings. If under 18, check state permit rules with a parent or guardian before working.
- Practice posing and prepare a portfolio of photos.
- Send photos to agencies or attend open calls and interviews.
- If under 18, check state permit rules with a parent or guardian.
- Confirm the booking details, then do the shoot or show.
Qualifications and exams
BLS lists no formal education requirement. Rules for minors vary by state; New York requires models under 18 to get a child performer permit before working.
A day as a model
On a booking day, a model checks the time and job details with an agent, then travels to a studio or show. At a shoot, they work with stylists and makeup artists, pose for the photographer, and report when the job is done.
Common questions
How much does a model make a year?
Typical pay for U.S. models was $48,470 a year in May 2025, according to the BLS. Top fashion models earn much more. Source
What kinds of modeling jobs can bring in money?
Models can earn money from work in ads, catalogs, TV commercials, online ads, retail websites, and fashion shows. Source
Does a modeling agency take part of the pay?
Yes. Agencies represent and promote models to clients, and receive a portion of the model’s earnings. Source
Do models always have work each week?
Not always. Many models work part time, have unpredictable schedules, and may have periods without work. Source
Can experience lead to better-paid jobs?
It can. Models who work more regularly and get selected for higher-profile assignments may receive higher pay. Source
Do child models keep all their earnings?
In New York, a parent or guardian must set up a trust account, and the employer must put at least 15% of the child model’s earnings into it. Source
This section summarizes public sources. We only show numbers that have a source.
Close jobs in official statistics
In Japan
Japan Most people, typical, the top
| Who | Yearly earnings | Based on |
|---|---|---|
| Working models in Tokyo (survey estimate) | $20,811–$45,505 | ERI salary-survey estimate for Tokyo; average about ¥5.5 million. |
| Top models (industry guide: can exceed ¥10M) | $66,667 | A modeling-industry guide says top earners can exceed ¥10M a year; not official statistics, lower bound only |
Related questions
Jobs in the same group
Data table and sources
- www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/models.htm
- www.forbes.com/sites/natalierobehmed/2018/12/13/highest-paid-models-2018-kendall
- office-enjin.jp/reader-model-guide
- www.modelba.com/become/2854
- www.onetonline.org/link/details/41-9012.00
- www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/state/child-labor/entertainment
- dol.ny.gov/child-model-frequently-asked-questions
- data.bls.gov/oesprofile?major_group=410000&measure=01&occupation=419012