Thinking of a career in video editing or looking to negotiate better pay? Knowing the current salary structure is key. Here’s a breakdown of what video editors earn in 2025 and how to increase your income.
Video content is everywhere, from viral social media clips to immersive streaming experiences. Businesses, creators, and educators rely on video to connect with audiences, making it the most powerful medium for communication, marketing, and entertainment. As a result, the demand for skilled video editors has never been higher.
Over the past decade, video editing has gone from a niche technical job to a dynamic creative career. Editors are now the storytellers behind the scenes; their job duties include shaping raw footage into compelling stories and working closely with directors, producers, and content creators. With the advancements in editing software, the rise of AI-powered tools, and the explosion of platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, the profession is evolving fast.
In this article, we’ll explore the current salary situation for video editors in 2025, breaking down pay by experience, industry, and location, and looking at the trends shaping the future of this exciting field. Drawing from Vidpros’ extensive experience as a leading video editing service for content creators, we’ll give you expert insights and up-to-date data to help you understand your earning potential in today’s fast-paced market.
What affects the average video editor’s salary?
Several key factors determine the average annual salary and how much you can earn as a video editor in 2025. Knowing these will help you position yourself for better pay:
Experience Level. Entry-level editors earn less, starting at $40,000, while senior editors with years of experience can earn up to $100,000 or more, especially in big production companies or specialized roles. Experience also affects hourly rates. Beginners charge $20-$60 per hour, and highly experienced editors charge $100 or more.
Technical Skills and Software Proficiency. Are you skilled in post-production tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects, and DaVinci Resolve? If so, you’re in higher demand and can get better pay. Specialized skills like motion graphics, color grading, or VFX boost your earning potential.
Industry Specialization. Where you work matters; editors in entertainment (film, TV) and marketing often earn more than those in corporate or social media roles. The complexity and creative demands of the industry directly affect your pay.
Geographic Location. Editors in major cities like New York or Los Angeles generally earn higher salaries due to the cost of living and concentration of media companies. Those in smaller markets may earn less, while remote work can offer more flexibility, but sometimes at lower rates.
Employment Type. In-house editors have steady salaries and benefits, while freelancers set their rates, ranging from $20 to $100 per hour, depending on experience and project scope. Agency positions and contract work may offer higher pay for specialized skills or urgent projects.
Education and Certifications. While a high school diploma may suffice for entry-level positions, a bachelor’s degree is often preferred, and additional editing software certifications can increase your job opportunities and salary offers.
These factors combine to create a wide salary range for video editors, reflecting differences in expertise, market demand, and the evolving nature of the industry in 2025.
Current salary ranges for video editors in 2025
How much does a video editor make? Your years in the field directly impact the average salary for video editors as demand increases:
By experience level
Entry-level video editors (0-2 years). Typically earn between $39,000 and $42,000 annually, averaging around $41,707 to $50,833 depending on the source. Entry-level pay reflects gaining foundational skills and building a portfolio.
Mid-level video editors (3-5 years). Salaries rise to about $49,961 to $66,000, reflecting increased proficiency and responsibility.
Senior video editors (6+ years). Experienced editors can earn between $70,000 and $85,000, with some reports showing top salaries reaching $92,000 or more, especially in specialized or leadership roles.
Trends compared to 2023-2024
Salaries have generally increased by 5-10% since 2023, driven by higher demand for video content and more complex editing needs. The rise of streaming platforms and social media content has expanded opportunities and wage growth.
Industry-specific salary variations
The company you work for can also significantly impact your earnings, with larger corporations often offering higher salaries. Here’s how salaries vary across different industries:
Entertainment industry (film, TV, motion pictures). This is the highest-paying sector, with salaries often above $70,000 for experienced editors due to complex projects and budgets.
Marketing and advertising. Competitive salaries range from around $55,000 to $75,000; video is vital in campaigns.
Corporate video. Pays slightly less, averaging $50,000 to $65,000, but offers stable employment.
Social media content creation is a growing field, and salaries range from $40,000 to $70,000, depending on scale and platform.
Gaming and streaming. Emerging sector with increasing pay, often $60,000+ for editors familiar with gaming content.
Geographic salary differences
Where you live and the locations you work in matter significantly regarding earnings. Here’s a breakdown of what editors earn in different regions:
Major U.S. cities:
Los Angeles, CA: Average around $72,384
San Francisco, CA: About $64,654
New York City, NY: Approximately $87,411
Washington, DC: Up to $127,429 for editors, including related editorial roles
Secondary markets: Cities like Chicago, Miami, and Baltimore typically offer 15-30% lower salaries than major hubs but are still competitive, at $50,000 to $80,000.
Remote work: Remote video editors may earn salaries similar to their local market or slightly less, depending on employer policies. Freelancers have more variability but can command higher rates with substantial portfolios.
At Vidpros, our editors are based in the Philippines, a country recognized globally for its talented and highly skilled remote workforce. Filipino video editors are especially valued for their strong English proficiency, professionalism, and adaptability, making them a top choice for businesses and content creators worldwide.
Vidpros uses this talent pool by hiring only top Filipino video editors, ensuring clients get high-quality work with overnight turnarounds. Our editors work from Tuesday to Saturday, 8 AM to 5 PM Philippine time, which aligns perfectly with international clients, especially in the U.S., allowing for efficient and responsive service.
Each editor is assigned no more than four clients, guaranteeing at least two hours of dedicated editing per client per day; much lower than industry averages, so quality and turnaround times remain high. For clients, this means you get the benefits of an agency while enjoying the cost savings of remote work. Vidpros charges a flat monthly fee of $1,000, with no hidden upsells or contracts, so professional editing is affordable and predictable. Our Filipino editors are experienced in various content types– from YouTube videos to corporate ads– and use industry-standard tools like Adobe Premiere Pro and After Effects to deliver high-quality results.
Vidpros’ editors from the Philippines combine technical skills, good communication, and a client-focused approach, all within a remote work model that brings quality and value to clients worldwide.
International comparison: Canada, the UK, Australia, and parts of Western Europe are high-paying countries for video editors. Salaries are similar to those in mid-tier US markets but vary widely by local cost of living and industry size.
Salary differences by employment type
How you work affects what you earn. Here’s how salaries vary by employment arrangement:
In-house editors. Usually have steady salaries of $50,000 to $75,000 plus benefits.
Freelancers. Freelance video editors set their rates, ranging from $16 to $31.60 per hour, with top freelancers charging up to $57.69 per hour or more, depending on expertise and client.
Agency positions. Due to project variety and deadlines, agencies pay competitive salaries, sometimes higher than corporate roles.
Content creation platforms. Editors working directly for platforms or creators have variable earnings, often project-based or retainer contracts, with income depending on volume and client budgets.
Highest-paying video editor specializations
Want to maximize your earnings? Consider developing expertise in these high-paying specializations:
VFX and motion graphics. Editors skilled in VFX and motion graphics can earn above $80,000 due to specialized skills.
3D animation integration. Combining video editing with 3D animation skills increases market value significantly.
Specialized software expertise. Mastery of tools like Adobe After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, and Avid Media Composer often leads to higher pay.
Industry-specific knowledge. Editors working in medical, legal, or technical fields with specialized content often earn premiums due to niche expertise.
Color correction. Mastery of color correction techniques can significantly enhance footage and increase earning potential.
Future salary projections (2025-2027)
What to expect in the coming years? Here are the trends shaping future video editor salaries:
Industry growth. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 3% growth in film and video editor jobs through 2033, faster than average for all occupations.
AI and automation. AI will automate routine editing tasks, reducing entry-level demand but increasing the value of creative, complex editing skills.
Emerging specializations. AI-assisted editing, VR, and AR video production skills will command premium rates.
Salary changes. Salaries will rise moderately (5-10%) as demand for video content grows and technology evolves, with top specialists seeing the most significant gains.
Video editor salary range 2025
Experience Level | Annual Salary Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Entry-level (0-2 years) | $39,000 – $50,833 | Building skills and portfolio |
Mid-level (3-5 years) | $50,000 – $66,000 | Increased responsibility |
Senior (6+ years) | $70,000 – $85,000+ | Leadership, specialization |
This table reflects the growing opportunities and evolving demands in the video editing field in 2025, highlighting the importance of skill development, industry choice, and location in annual wage outcomes.
Sources: ZipRecruiter (April 2025), PayScale (April 2025), Salary.com (March 2025), Indeed (April 2025), Coursera / Glassdoor / BLS (2024-2025), Built In (April 2025)
How to increase your video editing income
Want to increase your video editing income? Here are practical tips to help you command higher rates and better opportunities:
1. Develop in-demand skills
Are your technical skills up to date? Developing new skills is the fastest way to a higher income. Focus on:
Master industry-standard software. Learn the advanced features of tools like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and After Effects. Stay updated on new plugins and technology to keep your skills relevant.
Sharpen technical and creative skills. Focus on attention to detail, storytelling, color grading, and advanced audio design. Practice regularly, use keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow, and experiment with new editing techniques.
Continuously learn. Take online courses, attend workshops, and follow industry trends like 4K/8K editing, VR, and AI-assisted workflows. Developing new skills through professional development is essential for staying current with trends and enhancing your career.
2. Optimize your portfolio
Your portfolio is your most powerful marketing tool. Is yours showcasing your best work? Here’s how to make it stand out:
Showcase a variety of work. Build a portfolio highlighting different styles, genres, and platforms– corporate, social, film, and marketing, focusing on creating professional videos. Include before-and-after samples to demonstrate your impact.
Focus on storytelling and results. Use case studies or short descriptions to explain how your edits improved viewer engagement or met client goals.
Keep it fresh. Regularly add new projects and remove old work to reflect your current skill level and aesthetic.
3. Build your network
In video editing, who you know can be as important as what you know. Expand your connections with these:
Join online communities. Editing forums, social media groups, and platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and collaborators.
Attend industry events. Webinars, workshops, and local meetups to build relationships with other professionals and agencies.
Ask for referrals and testimonials. Satisfied clients can help you get new opportunities through recommendations and reviews.
4. Smart pricing
Are you charging what you’re worth? For freelancers, especially, pricing can make or break your income:
Research market rates. Understand standard rates in your region and niche—entry-level editors may charge $20–$40/hour, while experienced specialists can command $60–$100/hour or more.
Offer tiered packages, with different service levels (basic, standard, premium) to appeal to a broader range of clients.
Charge for value, not time. For complex or high-impact projects, consider flat rates or value-based pricing instead of hourly billing.
5. Master salary negotiations
For employed editors, knowing how to negotiate can increase your income:
Document your achievements. Track your contributions to successful projects, such as increased engagement or client satisfaction.
Benchmark your role. Use industry salary data to support your case for a raise or promotion, understanding the typical annual wage for your position.
Highlight specialized skills. To justify higher pay, emphasize expertise in high-demand areas like motion graphics, VFX, or social media content.
Be prepared to discuss flexibility. If remote work or flexible hours are critical, include them in your negotiations as added value.
By continuously learning, optimizing your portfolio, networking, smart pricing, and negotiating your worth, you can increase your video editing income in 2025 and beyond.
Vidpros: your video editing partner
Need reliable, affordable video editing services? Vidpros offers access to top-notch Filipino editors for $1,000 a month. Our editors are experienced in various content types and use industry-standard tools to deliver professional results fast.
Each client has no hidden fees, contracts, or dedicated editing time. Vidpros is perfect for businesses and content creators who need consistent, high-quality video editing without the hassle of in-house staff or managing multiple freelancers.
Check out how Vidpros can help you with your video content needs and stay ahead in the video-first world. Book a call with us today!
