Economist David Hamermesh of the University of Texas, Austin, and Jeff Biddle of Michigan State University discovered that “plain-looking” people earn 5 to 10 percent less than people of “average” looks, who in turn earn 5 percent less than those who are considered “good looking.” Surprisingly, their research showed that the “looks effect” on wages was greater for men than for women. This wage differential related to appearance is not, contrary to popular belief, evident only in modeling, acting, or working directly with the public. Looks seem to account for higher earnings in jobs such as bricklaying, factory work, and telemarketing.

According to Hamermesh and Biddle, part of the wage differential may be created by the fact that attractiveness leads to higher marginal revenue product. More attractive persons may have higher self-esteem, which in turn causes them to be more productive.

What are some other possible reasons that more attractive people tend to earn more?