Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling: Salary Guide 2025
The median annual wage for Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling hit $79,520 in 2024, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $38 an hour. The top 10% earn more than $139,110, while the bottom 10% make about $46,270.
This occupation covers a wide range of venues: concert halls, sports complexes, amusement parks, and community recreation centers. Pay and responsibilities vary by employer size, location, and specific industry. About 37,980 people held these jobs nationally as of 2024.
How much Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling earn
Nationally, the mean annual wage is $89,750, with the median at $79,520. The typical full-time schedule pays about $38 per hour at the median. Entry-level positions start around $46,270, and experienced managers in top markets can exceed $139,110.
The highest-paying industries include spectator sports, performing arts companies, and independent artists. Government agencies and local recreation departments tend to pay closer to the median range.
- Median salary: $79,520
- Mean salary: $89,750
- 10th percentile: $46,270
- 90th percentile: $139,110
- Hourly median: ~$38
Pay by state
Location matters a lot. The District of Columbia pays the most, at $113,930 on average. Minnesota ($107,660), New York ($98,390), Colorado ($97,000), and Washington ($96,790) round out the top five. These states have high costs of living and dense entertainment scenes.
On the lower end, Ohio ($58,440), Arkansas ($49,640), and West Virginia ($47,310) offer significantly less. If you're willing to move, targeting a high-paying state can boost your earnings by $30,000 or more.
How to become Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
Most employers require a bachelor's degree – often in recreation management, sports management, business, or a related field. A few years of experience in the recreation or entertainment industry is usually expected before stepping into a management role.
Certifications like the Certified Recreation and Park Professional (CRP) or Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) can strengthen your resume. Some states also require specific licenses for managing certain facilities (e.g., alcohol service or public assembly). On-the-job training is common.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in recreation, sports management, or business
- Gain 3–5 years of experience in the industry
- Consider voluntary certifications (CRP, CMP)
- Check state or local licensing requirements for your facility type
- Build skills in budgeting, staff management, and customer service
Job outlook
Employment is projected to grow 7.7% from 2024 to 2034 – faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 5,500 openings per year, mostly from workers retiring or leaving the field. Growth will be driven by continued demand for entertainment and recreation services, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations.
Jobs in private amusement parks, sports arenas, and event venues may grow faster, while public recreation centers see steadier but slower expansion. Competition will be strongest for high-paying roles in major markets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling in 2025?
The median annual salary is $79,520, based on 2024 BLS data. Updates for 2025 will likely be released in mid-2025, but this figure is the most current official estimate.
What qualifications do I need to become an entertainment and recreation manager?
A bachelor's degree in recreation, sports management, or business is typical. You'll also need several years of industry experience. Certifications like CRP or CMP can help, and some states require licenses for specific facility types.
What is the job growth outlook for this career?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7.7% growth from 2024 to 2034, faster than average. About 5,500 job openings are expected each year.
Which states pay the highest for this job?
District of Columbia offers the highest mean wage at $113,930, followed by Minnesota ($107,660), New York ($98,390), Colorado ($97,000), and Washington ($96,790).
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 Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling data.