Musicians and Singers Salary Guide 2025: BLS Data, Career Outlook, and How to Start
The BLS doesn't publish a median salary for Musicians and Singers—the national mean wage is also not available (about $null per hour). That's partly because earnings vary enormously by gig, genre, and geography. What we do know: the occupation employed 36,180 people in the U.S. in 2024, and the typical range falls somewhere between the 10th and 90th percentiles (recorded as n/a to n/a).
If you're considering a career as a musician or singer, you're looking at a field where income is irregular and often supplemented by teaching, session work, or other music-related jobs. The good news? The BLS projects 1.1% growth from 2024 to 2034—slower than average—but still expects about 19,400 openings each year, most from the need to replace workers who leave the occupation.
How much Musicians and Singers earn
The BLS does not report a median or mean wage for Musicians and Singers because the data is not statistically reliable at the national level. This is common in occupations with highly variable pay. The 10th and 90th percentile figures are also not available (n/a).
In practice, earnings depend on factors like performance frequency, type of employer, reputation, and location. Many musicians work multiple jobs, combine live performances with recording or teaching, and may earn additional income from royalties or grants.
Pay by state
The BLS does not provide state-level wage data for Musicians and Singers (shown as n/a). Geographic pay differences are difficult to pin down for this occupation due to the small sample sizes and the freelance nature of the work. Major music hubs like Los Angeles, Nashville, and New York likely offer higher earning potential but also higher costs of living.
How to become a Musician or Singer
There is no single path. Formal education is not required, but many musicians study music at colleges, conservatories, or through private lessons. A bachelor's degree in music or a related field can help build skills and networks. Others learn on the job, in community bands, or through self-teaching.
Key steps typically include: developing proficiency on an instrument or voice, performing regularly to gain experience and exposure, recording demo materials, building a portfolio, and networking with other musicians, venues, and booking agents. Many musicians also supplement income with music teaching or other work. Licensing and certification are not required for performers, though music teachers in public schools need state certification.
- Develop your craft through lessons, practice, and performance.
- Consider formal training: many musicians study at music schools or earn a degree in music.
- Build a portfolio: record demos, create a website, and use social media to showcase your work.
- Network with other musicians, attend open mics, and join local music organizations.
- Expect to have multiple income streams: performing, teaching, session work, or songwriting royalties.
Job outlook
Employment of Musicians and Singers is projected to grow 1.1% from 2024 to 2034, much slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 19,400 openings per year, mostly from workers leaving the field. Competition is intense, especially for full-time performing roles. Opportunities may be better in areas with vibrant music scenes or in teaching and accompanying roles.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Musician or Singer?
The BLS does not publish a median or mean salary for Musicians and Singers because of unreliable data. Earnings vary widely based on performance frequency, location, and other factors.
How do I become a professional musician or singer?
Start by mastering your instrument or voice through lessons and practice. Perform as much as possible to build experience and a network. Many musicians also pursue formal music education, but it's not required. Build a demo reel and online presence to attract gigs.
Is being a musician a good career choice in 2025?
It's a competitive field with slow job growth (1.1% over ten years) and variable income. However, the BLS projects about 19,400 openings annually, many from turnover. Success often depends on versatility, networking, and supplementing income with teaching or other music-related work.
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 Musicians and Singers data.