Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes: Salary Guide 2025
The median salary for agents and business managers of artists, performers, and athletes is $82,890 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean annual wage is $141,580, roughly $40 per hour, but the range is wide: the lowest 10% earn about $48,010, while the top 10% make $284,570. This occupation covers talent agents, artist managers, and business managers who negotiate contracts and handle clients' financial and career decisions.
How much Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes earn
The typical annual salary for this occupation is $82,890 (median). The mean salary—which is pulled upward by high earners—is $141,580, or about $68 per hour. Pay varies dramatically: the bottom 10th percentile earns $48,010 or less, while top earners (90th percentile) take home $284,570 or more.
Experience, client success, and location drive these differences. Top agents representing major athletes or A-list performers can earn millions, but the median reflects a mix of full-time agents and managers across all experience levels.
Highest-paying states: Florida ($98,200), California ($98,110), Colorado ($95,530), Texas ($82,920), Michigan ($82,440). Lower-paying states: Virginia ($73,400), Arizona ($60,340), Illinois ($56,560).
Pay by state
Salaries differ significantly by state. Florida tops the list with an average of $98,200, followed closely by California at $98,110 and Colorado at $95,530. Texas ($82,920) and Michigan ($82,440) are near the national median. At the lower end, Illinois averages $56,560, Arizona $60,340, and Virginia $73,400.
These figures are BLS 2024 estimates and reflect cost of living and local industry concentration—entertainment hubs like LA and New York (though NY data not listed) tend to pay higher, but competition is fierce.
How to become Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athlete
Most agents and business managers hold a bachelor's degree in business, sports management, entertainment management, or a related field. Many start as interns or assistants at talent agencies, management firms, or sports agencies.
Licensing requirements vary by state and client type. For example, talent agents in California and New York must get a license from the state labor department. Sports agents often need certification from a players' union (e.g., NFLPA, NBPA) after passing an exam. Continuing education is common.
- Earn a bachelor's degree (business, sports management, entertainment management).
- Build contacts through internships at talent agencies, management firms, or sports organizations.
- Obtain state license if required (e.g., talent agent license).
- For sports agents, get certified by the relevant players' union.
- Expect several years of assistant work before managing clients independently.
Job outlook
Employment for agents and business managers is projected to grow 8.7% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS expects about 2,200 openings each year over the decade, mostly from workers leaving the field or retiring.
Growth will be driven by continuing demand for representation across music, film, sports, and digital content creation. Aspiring agents should note that competition for top-tier clients remains intense, but opportunities in newer fields (eSports, social media influencers) are expanding.
Frequently asked questions
Do agents and business managers make good money?
Yes, the median annual wage is $82,890, well above the national median for all occupations. Top 10% earn over $284,570. But salaries vary widely by client base and location—entry-level roles can start near $48,010.
How do I become a talent agent or sports agent?
Start with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, then get an internship or assistant job at an agency. Licensing is required in some states (e.g., California talent agent license). For sports, union certification (e.g., NFLPA) is often mandatory.
What is the job growth for this career?
The BLS projects 8.7% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average. About 2,200 job openings per year are expected, including replacements.
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 Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes data.