Some costume and wardrobe specialists work as freelancers. They may work for a few months and then be off for a few months before their next job begins. This lowers the amount of money they earn over the year. Freelance costume and wardrobe specialists may have jobs in other areas to increase their income.

Wages vary by city and size of the production. Specialists generally earn more in larger cities. Costume and wardrobe specialists may be paid by the number of costumes, shows, or by the hour. If they are paid by the costume, they earn more for large productions. Some New York City dance companies and Broadway shows require that their workers be members of the United Screen Artists' union. The union sets wages for how much employees are paid. They also make sure that employees receive health and life insurance benefits.

Community theatres do not require their employees to be members of a union. As a result, wages are usually lower.