Sewing Machine Operators Salary in Los Angeles, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA

Median annual salary $36,400 +1.1% vs national
Median hourly $17.50
10th percentile $34,540
90th percentile $47,470
Employed locally 10,400
National median $36,000

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Sewing Machine Operators
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    In Los Angeles, California, Sewing Machine Operators have a median annual salary of $36,400, which translates to a median hourly wage of $17.50. This figure is slightly above the national median for this occupation at $36,000, reflecting local economic conditions and demand for such skills in the area's robust textile and apparel industries. When compared to the median household income in Los Angeles County, which stands at $93,525, it becomes evident that Sewing Machine Operators earn significantly less than the typical household. This disparity highlights the role of this occupation within a larger economic context, where these workers contribute to essential manufacturing processes while earning wages below the regional average for households.

    The pay scale for Sewing Machine Operators in Los Angeles shows considerable variance based on experience and skill level. Entry-level operators, typically at or near the 10th percentile, earn around $34,540 annually, which provides a baseline that reflects initial training and minimal job tenure. In contrast, those with more experience, reflected by earnings at the 75th percentile, make approximately $39,350 per year. The top earners in this field, represented by the 90th percentile, can achieve annual salaries as high as $47,470, underscoring the financial benefits of accumulating expertise and efficiency over time. The difference in pay between entry-level and experienced workers is driven largely by factors such as speed, accuracy, familiarity with advanced machinery, and often additional responsibilities that come with seniority or specialized skills.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $34,540
    25th
    $35,410
    50th (median)
    $36,400
    75th
    $39,350
    90th
    $47,470

    Los Angeles economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.40% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $93,525 2023 • Census ACS
    Sewing Machine Operators salary vs area income 39% Median Sewing Machine Operators salary is 61% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Sewing Machine Operators make per hour in Los Angeles?

    The median hourly wage for Sewing Machine Operators in Los Angeles, CA is $17.50, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $23.31 or more per hour.

    Is Los Angeles above or below average for Sewing Machine Operators salaries?

    The median Sewing Machine Operators salary in Los Angeles, CA is 1.1% above the national median of $36,000. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Sewing Machine Operators in Los Angeles?

    Entry-level Sewing Machine Operators (10th percentile) earn around $34,540 per year in Los Angeles, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $35,410.