Atlanta is a major hub for film and video production in the southeastern United States. As a result, there is high demand for experienced video editors in the city. Rates for video editing services can vary considerably based on the editor’s level of experience, the complexity of the editing project, and whether the editor works as a freelancer or for a post-production company.
Average Video Editor Rates in Atlanta
According to data from PayScale, the average hourly rate for a video editor in Atlanta is $28.53. This equates to an average annual salary of around $59,400. However, rates can range from $14.42 per hour at entry-level to $48.08 per hour at senior levels. The typical range is between $20-$40 per hour.
For freelance video editors, the rate is generally charged per project rather than per hour. On average, freelancers charge $250-$500 per finished minute for editing video projects. The rate varies based on the video genre, with corporate videos at the higher end ($400-$500/minute) and web videos toward the lower end ($200-$300/minute).
Factors Affecting Video Editor Rates
There are several key factors that impact how much a video editor can charge in Atlanta:
- Experience level – more experienced editors can command higher rates.
- Editing skills – editors with more technical skills in complex editing software charge more.
- Industry/niche – corporate, advertising, film/TV editors may have higher rates.
- Turnaround time – quick turnarounds warrant higher fees.
- Project complexity – more complex projects require higher rates.
- Company/client size – larger companies and clients have bigger budgets.
Video Editor Rates by Experience Level
Here is a breakdown of typical video editor hourly rates in Atlanta at different experience levels:
Entry-Level (0-2 years)
- Hourly rate: $14-$25
- Average project rate: $150-$300/finished minute
Entry-level editors normally handle simpler editing tasks like basic cuts, titles, and graphics. They work under supervision of more experienced editors.
Mid-Level (3-6 years)
- Hourly rate: $25-$35
- Average project rate: $250-$400/finished minute
At the mid-level, editors take on more complex projects and may manage junior editors. They are proficient with major editing software like Premiere Pro, After Effects, Avid, etc.
Senior-Level (7+ years)
- Hourly rate: $35-$50+
- Average project rate: $400-$500+/finished minute
Senior editors tackle highly complex editing jobs including feature films and national ad campaigns. They are experts in utilizing editing software to cut, finish, and deliver professional video projects.
Day Rates for Video Editors
Many video editing projects are billed on a day rate rather than hourly. Here are typical day rates based on experience level:
- Entry-level: $200-$400/day
- Mid-level: $400-$650/day
- Senior-level: $650-$1000+/day
These rates assume an 8-10 hour editing day. Adjustments are made for longer day rates.
Video Editor Rates by Industry
Rates can also vary based on the video industry and type of employer:
Post-Production Company
- Hourly: $25-$40
- Project: $300-$500+/finished minute
Post houses take on corporate, ad agency, entertainment projects. Rates reflect the broad clientele and advanced editing technology used.
TV Station/Network
- Hourly: $22-$35
- Annual: $50,000-$75,000
For staff editing positions at TV stations and networks, hourly or annual salaries apply. Rates are mid-range given budget constraints.
Video Production Company
- Hourly: $20-$30
- Project: $250-$400/finished minute
Video production companies produce commercials, corporate videos, and other projects. Their editor rates reflect their client mix.
Freelance Editors
- Hourly: $25-$100
- Project: $250-$1000+/finished minute
Freelance video editors set their own rates depending on demand, experience, and services offered. Ranges are broad.
Comparing Video Editor Rates in Atlanta vs Nationally
How do video editor rates in Atlanta compare to national averages? Here is a look:
| Location | Avg Hourly Rate | Avg Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | $28.53 | $59,400 |
| National Average | $28.11 | $58,500 |
Video editor rates in Atlanta are very closely aligned with national benchmarks. The market rates for editors in Atlanta reflect the regional economy and the high volume of video production taking place in the city.
Video Editor Job Opportunities in Atlanta
There are a wide variety of video editor jobs available in the Atlanta market. Here are a few examples of companies currently hiring for video editors:
Turner Broadcasting
The Atlanta-based TV network giant frequently hires video editors to support their cable channels like TNT, TBS, CNN, Cartoon Network, and more. Openings are available for freelance, project-based, and staff editing roles. Turner seeks editors skilled in Adobe Premiere and After Effects.
Coca-Cola
The iconic beverage brand has an in-house creative team that handles video content for campaigns, social media, and the company website. Coca-Cola hires experienced corporate video editors in the Atlanta area to produce and edit videos showcasing their products and brand.
Lock and Key Productions
This Atlanta video production company specializes in commercials, corporate videos, and digital content. They hire freelance editors regularly to collaborate on video projects for brands and ad agencies. Video editing skills and creativity are required.
Active Communicators Group
This growing Atlanta digital marketing agency has openings for video editors to handle post-production on explainer videos, testimonial videos, social media ads, and corporate interview projects. Adobe Premiere Pro expertise is preferred.
Conclusion
In summary, video editor rates in Atlanta reflect the region’s robust video production industry. While rates vary based on experience, employer, project complexity and other factors, the average hourly rate is around $28. Demand for skilled editors makes Atlanta a top market for video professionals to build a career and thrive.
