What The Top 20 DJs Are Paid Per Gig?

The top headlining DJs can rake in from $300,000 to more than $1 million for a headlining gig at major Festivals — the most lucrative, career-building gigs for the profession. Beyond that, EDM’s elite are capable of headlining arenas and amphitheaters in many major U.S. and international markets. We talked to talent buyers and agents to determine the top-ranking DJs and the range of money they earn per gig. The list here is by no means final: The value of an act rises in direct correlation to the needs of the buyer, and one act might be top tier on one night and third tier the next. Also, it’s worth noting that scarcity breeds demand and, often, the acts who work the least are paid the most.

1st Tier

$ 250,000 – 1 million

PER GIG

Deadmau5
Calvin Harris
Tiesto
Skrillex
Steve Aoki
Kaskade

2nd Tier

$ 100,000 – 250,000

PER GIG

Martin Garrix
Bassnectar
Hardwell
Nicky Romero
Zedd

3rd Tier

$ 50,000 – 100,000

PER GIG

Disclosure
Afrojack
Paul Van Dyk
Diplo
Eric Prydz