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Entertainment and Sports Occupations

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Employment of entertainment and sports occupations is projected to grow 10 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment is projected to increase by about 79,600. Strong demand from the public for more movies and television shows, as well as the increasing popularity of sports, will contribute to job growth for the entertainment and sports occupations.

The median annual wage for entertainment and sports occupations was $42,010 in May 2017, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $37,690.

OCCUPATION	JOB SUMMARY	ENTRY-LEVEL EDUCATION	2017 MEDIAN PAY
Actors	Actors express ideas and portray characters in theater, film, television, and other performing arts media. They interpret a writer’s script to entertain or inform an audience.	Some college, no degree	The annual wage is not available.
Athletes and Sports Competitors	Athletes and sports competitors participate in organized, officiated sporting events to entertain spectators.	No formal educational credential	$51,370
Coaches and Scouts	Coaches teach amateur or professional athletes the skills they need to succeed at their sport. Scouts look for new players and evaluate their skills and likelihood for success at the college, amateur, or professional level. Many coaches also are involved in scouting.	Bachelor's degree	$32,270
Dancers and Choreographers	Dancers and choreographers use dance performances to express ideas and stories. There are many types of dance, such as ballet, tango, modern dance, tap, and jazz.	See How to Become One	The annual wage is not available.
Music Directors and Composers	Music directors, also called conductors, lead orchestras and other musical groups during performances and recording sessions. Composers write and arrange original music in a variety of musical styles.	Bachelor's degree	$50,590
Musicians and Singers	Musicians and singers play instruments or sing for live audiences and in recording studios.	No formal educational credential	The annual wage is not available.
Producers and Directors	Producers and directors create motion pictures, television shows, live theater, commercials, and other performing arts productions. They interpret a writer’s script to entertain or inform an audience.	Bachelor's degree	$71,620
Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials	Umpires, referees, and other sports officials preside over competitive athletic or sporting events to help maintain standards of play. They detect infractions and decide penalties according to the rules of the game.	High school diploma or equivalent	$26,800