Art historians are professionals who study the history, theory, and criticism of visual art. They research, interpret, and write about art, and may also work in museums, galleries, and other art-related institutions.

The salary of an art historian can vary depending on their experience, education, and location. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for art historians was $70,680 in May 2021. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $39,430, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $122,840.

There are a number of factors that can affect an art historian’s salary, including their level of education, experience, and the type of work they do. For example, art historians who work in museums and galleries typically earn more than those who work in academia. Additionally, art historians who have a doctorate degree typically earn more than those with only a master’s degree.

how much do art historians get paid?

Art historians are professionals who study the history, theory, and criticism of visual art. They research, interpret, and write about art, and may also work in museums, galleries, and other art-related institutions. The salary of an art historian can vary depending on their experience, education, and location.

• Education: Art historians with a doctorate degree typically earn more than those with only a master’s degree.
• Experience: Art historians with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience.
• Location: Art historians who work in large cities typically earn more than those who work in small towns.
• Type of work: Art historians who work in museums and galleries typically earn more than those who work in academia.
• Institution: The type of institution where an art historian works can also affect their salary. For example, art historians who work at prestigious universities typically earn more than those who work at less prestigious universities.
• Grant funding: Art historians who are able to secure grant funding may be able to supplement their salary.
• Publications: Art historians who publish their research in academic journals may be able to earn more than those who do not publish.
• Awards: Art historians who win awards for their work may be able to earn more than those who do not win awards.
• Negotiation: Art historians who are able to successfully negotiate their salary may be able to earn more than those who do not negotiate.
• Cost of living: The cost of living in the area where an art historian works can also affect their salary.

In addition to the factors listed above, the salary of an art historian can also be affected by the current job market. When the job market is strong, art historians may be able to negotiate higher salaries. However, when the job market is weak, art historians may have to accept lower salaries.

Overall, the salary of an art historian can vary depending on a number of factors. However, with the right education, experience, and skills, art historians can earn a good salary.

Education

The level of education is a major factor that influences the salary of an art historian. Art historians with a doctorate degree typically earn more than those with only a master’s degree. This is because a doctorate degree represents a higher level of education and expertise in the field of art history.

• Research and Teaching
  Art historians with a doctorate degree are typically qualified to teach at the university level. They may also be involved in research and writing. These activities can lead to higher salaries than those earned by art historians with only a master’s degree.
• Management and Leadership
  Art historians with a doctorate degree may also be qualified for management and leadership positions in museums, galleries, and other art-related institutions. These positions typically come with higher salaries than those earned by art historians with only a master’s degree.
• Specialized Knowledge
  Art historians with a doctorate degree typically have a deeper understanding of art history than those with only a master’s degree. This specialized knowledge can lead to higher salaries, especially in fields such as art conservation and authentication.
• International Opportunities
  Art historians with a doctorate degree are more likely to have opportunities to work internationally. This can lead to higher salaries, especially in countries where there is a strong demand for art historians with advanced degrees.

Overall, the level of education is a major factor that influences the salary of an art historian. Art historians with a doctorate degree typically earn more than those with only a master’s degree. This is because a doctorate degree represents a higher level of education and expertise in the field of art history.

Experience

The amount of experience an art historian has is a major factor in determining their salary. Art historians with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience.

• Increased Knowledge and Skills
  As art historians gain experience, they develop a deeper understanding of art history and a broader range of skills. This makes them more valuable to employers, who are willing to pay more for their expertise.
• Proven Track Record
  Art historians with more experience have a proven track record of success in the field. This makes them more attractive to employers, who are more likely to offer them higher salaries.
• Seniority
  Art historians with more experience are more likely to be promoted to senior positions, which typically come with higher salaries.
• Negotiation Power
  Art historians with more experience are in a better position to negotiate higher salaries. They have a stronger understanding of their worth and are more likely to be able to get what they want.

Overall, the amount of experience an art historian has is a major factor in determining their salary. Art historians with more experience typically earn more than those with less experience. This is because they have a deeper understanding of art history, a broader range of skills, a proven track record of success, and more seniority.

Location

The location of an art historian’s job can have a significant impact on their salary. Art historians who work in large cities typically earn more than those who work in small towns. This is because there are more opportunities for art historians in large cities, and the cost of living is typically higher.

In large cities, there are more museums, galleries, and other art-related institutions. This means that there is more demand for art historians, and they can negotiate higher salaries. Additionally, the cost of living in large cities is typically higher, so art historians need to earn more money to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for art historians in New York City was $85,920 in May 2021. This is significantly higher than the median annual salary for art historians in smaller cities, such as Scranton, Pennsylvania ($60,690) and Sioux Falls, South Dakota ($58,920).

Of course, there are also some benefits to working as an art historian in a small town. The cost of living is typically lower, and there may be less competition for jobs. However, art historians who are willing to work in a large city can typically earn a higher salary.

Overall, the location of an art historian’s job is an important factor to consider when negotiating their salary. Art historians who work in large cities typically earn more than those who work in small towns.

Type of work

The type of work that an art historian does can also have a significant impact on their salary. Art historians who work in museums and galleries typically earn more than those who work in academia.

There are a number of reasons for this disparity. First, museums and galleries typically have more funding than academic institutions. This means that they are able to offer higher salaries to their employees.

Second, museums and galleries are more likely to be located in large cities. As we discussed earlier, art historians who work in large cities typically earn more than those who work in small towns.

Third, museums and galleries are more likely to be able to offer their employees benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. These benefits can make a significant difference in an art historian’s overall compensation package.

Of course, there are also some benefits to working as an art historian in academia. For example, academic art historians typically have more freedom to pursue their own research interests. They may also have more opportunities to teach and mentor students.

However, for art historians who are primarily interested in earning a high salary, working in a museum or gallery is typically the better option.

Here are some real-life examples of the salary differences between art historians who work in museums and galleries and those who work in academia:

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for art historians who work in museums and galleries was $69,930 in May 2021.
• According to the American Association of University Professors, the median annual salary for art historians who work in academia was $62,340 in 2020-2021.

As you can see, art historians who work in museums and galleries typically earn more than those who work in academia. This is due to a number of factors, including funding, location, and benefits.

Institution

The type of institution where an art historian works can have a significant impact on their salary. This is because prestigious universities typically have more funding than less prestigious universities. This means that they are able to offer higher salaries to their employees, including art historians.

In addition, prestigious universities are more likely to be located in large cities. As we discussed earlier, art historians who work in large cities typically earn more than those who work in small towns. This is because there are more opportunities for art historians in large cities, and the cost of living is typically higher.

Finally, prestigious universities are more likely to be able to offer their employees benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. These benefits can make a significant difference in an art historian’s overall compensation package.

Here are some real-life examples of the salary differences between art historians who work at prestigious universities and those who work at less prestigious universities:

• According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for art historians who work at universities was $70,680 in May 2021.
• However, art historians who work at prestigious universities, such as Harvard University and Yale University, can earn significantly more than this.
• For example, the average salary for an art historian at Harvard University is $105,000.

As you can see, the type of institution where an art historian works can have a significant impact on their salary. Art historians who work at prestigious universities typically earn more than those who work at less prestigious universities.

This is an important factor to consider when negotiating your salary, and it is something that you should keep in mind when you are searching for a job.

Grant funding

Grant funding is an important source of income for many art historians. Art historians can use grant funding to support their research, travel to conferences, and purchase equipment. Grant funding can also be used to supplement an art historian’s salary.

The amount of grant funding that an art historian can receive varies depending on a number of factors, including the type of grant, the size of the grant, and the art historian’s experience and qualifications. However, even a small grant can make a significant difference in an art historian’s salary. For example, a grant of $5,000 could be used to cover the cost of travel to a conference or to purchase new equipment.

There are a number of different organizations that offer grants to art historians. These organizations include the National Endowment for the Humanities, the American Council of Learned Societies, and the Getty Foundation. Art historians can also find grants from universities, museums, and other cultural institutions.

If you are an art historian, securing grant funding is a great way to supplement your salary and support your research. There are a number of resources available to help you find and apply for grants. The Grant Funding Guide for Art Historians is a good place to start.

ConclusionGrant funding is an important part of an art historian’s salary. Art historians who are able to secure grant funding can supplement their salary and support their research. There are a number of different organizations that offer grants to art historians, so it is important to do your research and find the grants that are right for you.

Publications

Publishing research in academic journals is an important way for art historians to share their work with the world. It can also lead to higher salaries. Art historians who publish their research are more likely to be promoted to senior positions, which typically come with higher salaries.

In addition, art historians who publish their research are more likely to be recognized for their work. This recognition can lead to invitations to give lectures, write books, and curate exhibitions. These opportunities can also lead to higher salaries.

Here are some real-life examples of the salary differences between art historians who publish their research and those who do not publish:

• According to a study by the American Historical Association, art historians who publish at least one article in a top academic journal earn an average of $10,000 more per year than those who do not publish.
• A study by the College Art Association found that art historians who have published at least three articles in top academic journals earn an average of $20,000 more per year than those who have not published any articles.

As you can see, publishing research in academic journals can have a significant impact on an art historian’s salary. Art historians who are serious about their careers should make sure to publish their research in top academic journals.

Conclusion

Publishing research in academic journals is an important part of an art historian’s career. It can lead to higher salaries, promotions, and recognition. Art historians who are serious about their careers should make sure to publish their research in top academic journals.

Awards

Winning awards is a prestigious achievement that can have a positive impact on an art historian’s salary. Awards can recognize an art historian’s research, teaching, or service to the field. They can also bring an art historian’s work to the attention of a wider audience, which can lead to more opportunities and a higher salary.

• Increased Visibility and Recognition

  Winning awards can increase an art historian’s visibility and recognition within the field. This can lead to more invitations to give lectures, write articles, and curate exhibitions. These opportunities can provide additional income and help art historians to negotiate higher salaries.

• Enhanced Credibility and Expertise

  Winning awards can also enhance an art historian’s credibility and expertise. This can lead to more invitations to serve on committees, review grant proposals, and participate in other professional activities. These activities can provide additional income and help art historians to develop their careers.

• Increased Job Opportunities

  Winning awards can also increase an art historian’s job opportunities. Art historians who have won awards are more likely to be recruited for prestigious positions at museums, universities, and other cultural institutions. These positions typically come with higher salaries.

• Higher Salaries

  In addition to the indirect benefits listed above, winning awards can also lead to higher salaries. Art historians who have won awards are more likely to be able to negotiate higher salaries when they are hired or promoted.

Overall, winning awards is a prestigious achievement that can have a positive impact on an art historian’s salary. Awards can increase an art historian’s visibility and recognition, enhance their credibility and expertise, increase their job opportunities, and lead to higher salaries.

Negotiation

Negotiation is an important skill for art historians to have. Art historians who are able to successfully negotiate their salary may be able to earn more than those who do not negotiate. This is because negotiation allows art historians to advocate for themselves and to get what they deserve.

There are a number of factors that can affect an art historian’s salary, including their experience, education, and the type of work they do. However, negotiation can be a powerful tool for increasing an art historian’s salary, regardless of these other factors.

For example, a recent study by the American Historical Association found that art historians who negotiated their salary earned an average of $5,000 more per year than those who did not negotiate. This is a significant difference, and it shows that negotiation can have a real impact on an art historian’s salary.

There are a few things that art historians can do to improve their negotiation skills. First, they should research the average salary for art historians in their field. This will give them a good starting point for negotiations.

Second, art historians should be prepared to justify their salary request. They should be able to articulate their skills and experience, and they should be able to explain why they deserve to be paid more than the average.

Finally, art historians should be confident when they negotiate. They should not be afraid to ask for what they deserve, and they should be willing to walk away from a negotiation if they are not getting what they want.

Negotiation is an important skill for art historians to have. Art historians who are able to successfully negotiate their salary may be able to earn more than those who do not negotiate. By following the tips above, art historians can improve their negotiation skills and get the salary they deserve.

Cost of living

The cost of living is a significant factor that can affect an art historian’s salary. Art historians who work in areas with a high cost of living, such as New York City or London, typically earn more than those who work in areas with a lower cost of living, such as rural areas or small towns.

• Housing: Housing costs are a major factor that can affect an art historian’s salary. Art historians who live in areas with high housing costs, such as San Francisco or Los Angeles, may need to earn a higher salary in order to afford a decent place to live.
• Transportation: Transportation costs can also affect an art historian’s salary. Art historians who live in areas with good public transportation may be able to save money on transportation costs, while those who live in areas without good public transportation may need to own a car, which can be a significant expense.
• Food and other expenses: The cost of food and other expenses can also vary depending on the area where an art historian lives. Art historians who live in areas with a high cost of living may need to spend more money on food and other expenses, such as entertainment and dining out.

Overall, the cost of living is an important factor that can affect an art historian’s salary. Art historians who work in areas with a high cost of living may need to earn a higher salary in order to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

FAQs about “how much do art historians get paid?”

This section provides answers to frequently asked questions about the salary of art historians. These questions are designed to address common concerns and misconceptions, providing a comprehensive understanding of the factors that influence art historians’ earnings.

Question 1: What is the average salary for an art historian?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for art historians was $70,680 in May 2021.

Question 2: What factors affect an art historian’s salary?

Several factors can influence an art historian’s salary, including their experience, education, location, type of work, institution, grant funding, publications, awards, negotiation skills, and cost of living.

Question 3: Do art historians with a doctorate degree earn more than those with a master’s degree?

Yes, art historians with a doctorate degree typically earn more than those with only a master’s degree. This is because a doctorate degree represents a higher level of education and expertise in the field of art history.

Question 4: Do art historians who work in museums and galleries earn more than those who work in academia?

Yes, art historians who work in museums and galleries typically earn more than those who work in academia. This is because museums and galleries typically have more funding and are more likely to be located in large cities, where the cost of living is higher.

Question 5: Can art historians negotiate their salary?

Yes, art historians can negotiate their salary. By researching the average salary for art historians in their field, preparing to justify their salary request, and negotiating confidently, art historians can increase their chances of earning a higher salary.

Question 6: How does the cost of living affect an art historian’s salary?

The cost of living can significantly impact an art historian’s salary. Art historians who work in areas with a high cost of living, such as New York City or London, typically earn more than those who work in areas with a lower cost of living.

In summary, the salary of an art historian is influenced by various factors, including their experience, education, location, type of work, institution, grant funding, publications, awards, negotiation skills, and cost of living. Understanding these factors can help art historians make informed decisions about their careers and negotiate salaries that reflect their worth and contributions to the field.

To learn more about the salary and career of art historians, explore the following resources:

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Art Historians
• College Art Association
• American Historical Association: Art History Division

Tips for Negotiating a Higher Salary as an Art Historian

Negotiating a salary can be a daunting task, but it is an important skill for art historians to have. By following these tips, art historians can increase their chances of earning a higher salary:

Tip 1: Research the Average Salary for Art Historians
Before negotiating your salary, it is important to do your research and find out what the average salary for art historians is in your field. This will give you a good starting point for negotiations.

Tip 2: Be Prepared to Justify Your Salary Request
When you are negotiating your salary, you need to be prepared to justify your request. This means being able to articulate your skills and experience, and explaining why you deserve to be paid more than the average.

Tip 3: Be Confident
Confidence is key when negotiating your salary. Do not be afraid to ask for what you deserve, and be willing to walk away from a negotiation if you are not getting what you want.

Tip 4: Negotiate Everything
In addition to your salary, there are a number of other things that you can negotiate, such as benefits, vacation time, and professional development opportunities. Be sure to negotiate everything that is important to you.

Tip 5: Get Everything in Writing
Once you have negotiated your salary and benefits, be sure to get everything in writing. This will protect you in the event of any disputes.

Summary:

By following these tips, art historians can increase their chances of earning a higher salary. Remember, negotiation is a skill that takes practice. The more you negotiate, the better you will become at it.

Conclusion

The salary of an art historian can vary depending on a number of factors, including their experience, education, location, type of work, institution, grant funding, publications, awards, negotiation skills, and cost of living. However, with the right education, experience, and skills, art historians can earn a good salary.

Art historians play an important role in our understanding of art and visual culture. They research, interpret, and write about art, and they may also work in museums, galleries, and other art-related institutions. By understanding the factors that affect their salary, art historians can advocate for themselves and negotiate for the salary they deserve.