Cost of Living and the Struggling Artist

We’re at the top of a new decade, and pandemic or not we can’t afford to continue perpetuating the image of the starving artist. Regardless of one’s status or following, we all have to eat. The cost of living has steadily risen over the last few years with no sign of slowing down.

Cost of living expenses involve the amount of money needed in order to sustain a certain standard of living or lifestyle. This includes, the cost of healthcare, food, basic needs, and housing, which often tops the list for many. As such, when one chooses to pursue a career as a creative, it’s often to their benefit to move to one of the major cities. Doing this expands their network and improves their opportunities to grow their career and increase their income potential.

Unfortunately, many creatives will never reach their full potential due to the increased cost of living in many urban centers that are ideal for an up and coming or aspiring artist.

In order to sustain themselves, many creatives take on primary and secondary jobs to supplement their income until they are able to establish and scale their creative business. But, one cannot simply get a regular 9-5. Doing so could hinder the time and effort necessary to grow their creative career. Oftentimes, due to the flexibility of jobs in the services industry, many turn to these businesses. The problem is that a lot of these jobs don’t pay a livable wage. Case in point, many artists flock to cities such as Los Angeles, New York City, Atlanta, Austin, and Portland to jump start their careers, but run into a serious money problem. 

In Texas minimum wage is a meager $7.25, $12.00 - $13.00 in California, $5.15 in Georgia, $15.00 in New York City, and $12.00 in Oregon. These wages pale in comparison to rents. The cost of housing alone in these cities have spiked and priced a lot of aspiring artists out of these areas. Assuming they’re in a one-bedroom apartment, the average cost runs about $1,200.00. Compare these numbers with the minimum wage earned part-time or working hours on an inconsistent basis and you have a blueprint for disaster. So, what should one do to better navigate their career as a creative?

1. Consider moving to a more affordable city such as some of the locations listed here.

2. Shop for more cost-effective insurance. A single health-related event can sabotage one’s finances. Consider looking for insurance for freelancers or getting on a spouse’s or parents plan.

3. Always have a side-hustle. This is becoming more necessary as we continue to navigate our new normal as a society in the midst of the pandemic that has wreaked financial havoc on so many. Having a second or third stream of income will be critical.

While pursuing a career focused on creative artistry can be difficult, there are many resources and alternatives that can be found to mitigate costs and avert the risk of becoming a typical starving artist.