Actors, Producers, and Directors earn $81,670 median salary – BLS 2024 data
The median annual salary for Actors, Producers, and Directors is $81,670, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest estimates. That works out to roughly $39 per hour. The mean wage is higher, $115,510, pulled up by the top earners. The typical range is wide: 10th percentile earns $39,670, while the top 10% brings home $241,580. About 198,120 people hold these jobs nationwide.
How much Actors, Producers, and Directors earn
The BLS reports a median wage of $81,670 for this occupation group. That means half earn less, half more. The average hourly wage is about $39. The bottom 10% make under $39,670, often reflecting entry-level or part-time roles. The top 10% earn over $241,580 — typically successful directors, producers, or well-known actors.
- National median salary: $81,670
- National mean salary: $115,510 ($55.53/hour)
- 10th percentile: $39,670
- 90th percentile: $241,580
- Total employment: 198,120
Pay by state
BLS data for state-level pay is not available for this occupation due to disclosure or reliability concerns. However, major entertainment hubs like California and New York typically offer higher wages, while cost of living also varies. For the most current state figures, check the BLS OEWS database directly.
How to become Actors, Producers, and Directors
No single path leads to these careers. Most actors start with formal training at a college, conservatory, or acting school — a bachelor's degree in theater arts or film is common but not required. Background in dance, music, or improv helps. To get started, build a headshot, resume, and demo reel. Audition constantly; join unions (SAG-AFTRA for actors, DGA for directors, PGA for producers) after qualifying. Producers often rise from assistant roles, while directors typically work up from theater or film sets.
- Consider a degree in theater, film, or communications (4-year or conservatory).
- Gain experience through community theater, student films, or indie projects.
- Create a portfolio: headshots, resume, demo reel (actors); showreel or clips (directors); business resume (producers).
- Join industry unions once eligible (SAG-AFTRA, DGA, PGA).
- Network persistently; many jobs come from referrals.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a specific growth projection for Actors, Producers, and Directors for 2024–2034. Employment is tied to demand for entertainment — streaming, theater, film, and live events. Competition remains fierce: BLS notes that many actors and directors work part-time or between projects. Persistence and networking are key.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Actors, Producers, and Directors?
The median annual salary is $81,670, according to the BLS.
What is the top salary for Actors, Producers, and Directors?
The top 10% earn over $241,580 per year. The mean wage is $115,510.
How many Actors, Producers, and Directors are employed in the US?
About 198,120 people work in this occupation, per BLS 2024 estimates.
What education is needed to become an actor or director?
A bachelor's degree in theater or film is common, but not required. Many actors train at conservatories. Directors often learn through hands-on experience.
What is the job outlook for Actors, Producers, and Directors?
BLS does not give a specific growth projection for 2024–2034. Employment is driven by entertainment demand, but competition is high.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Actors, Producers, and Directors data.