Miscellaneous Entertainers, Performers & Sports Workers: 24,470 Jobs Nationwide

No median salary data exists for this occupation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics groups miscellaneous entertainers, performers, and sports-related workers under a catch-all code. About 24,470 people held these jobs in the U.S. as of 2024. Typical wages span from $null to $null per hour at the 10th and 90th percentiles.

Explore the live data for this occupation:

How much Miscellaneous Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers earn

Because this category lumps together diverse roles—from circus performers to sports officials to independent artists—the BLS cannot calculate a reliable median. The national mean wage is also unavailable. Hourly pay at the 10th percentile is $null, meaning 10% earn less than that. At the 90th percentile, it reaches $null per hour.

Pay varies wildly by specialty and location. A NBA referee earns far more than a rodeo clown. The OEWS data does not break down these sub-occupations. For most workers, income depends on gigs, contracts, and experience.

All salary figures are BLS estimates from the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey.

Pay by state

The BLS does not publish state-level wage data for this occupation. The catch-all category is suppressed because of insufficient sample sizes or confidentiality concerns. That means no state can be identified as the highest or lowest paying. Workers should check local job postings or industry-specific surveys for region-specific numbers.

How to become Miscellaneous Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Worker

No single path leads into this field. It covers athletes, performers, announcers, models, and more. Here are common entry points:

  • Develop a specialized skill: e.g., acting, dancing, sports officiating, magic, stand-up comedy, or DJing.
  • Get formal training: some roles require a degree (sports management, theater), others rely on workshops or certificates (e.g., referee certification from a sports governing body).
  • Build a portfolio or demo reel; many workers are self-employed and need proven experience.
  • Network with event organizers, talent agencies, or sports leagues. Entry-level gigs are often unpaid or low-paid.
  • Obtain licenses or permits where needed—e.g., boxing referees must be licensed by state athletic commissions.

Job outlook

Projected growth from 2024 to 2034 is not available for this occupation. The BLS does not publish growth estimates for catch-all categories. Employment is sensitive to economic conditions and public interest in entertainment and sports. Many workers face irregular hours and income. The median tenure is short. Expect competition for high-visibility roles such as sports officials and stage performers.

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Miscellaneous Entertainers and Performers?

There is no median salary because the category is too broad. The BLS only reports a 10th-percentile hourly wage of $null and a 90th-percentile of $null.

How many jobs are there in this field?

24,470 people were employed in this occupation as of May 2024, according to the OEWS survey.

What states pay the most?

No state-level data is available. The BLS suppresses state estimates for this occupation due to insufficient data.

What is the job growth projection?

The BLS does not provide a growth projection for this catch-all occupation.

How do I become a miscellaneous entertainer or performer?

There is no standard path. Develop a specific skill (e.g., performing, officiating), get training (degree or certification), build a portfolio, and network. Many require licenses or permits.

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 Miscellaneous Entertainers and Performers, Sports and Related Workers data.