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Actor/Performer Salary in the United States

How much does an Actor/Performer make in the United States?

As of September 01, 2026, the average salary for an Actor/Performer in the United States is $65,067 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $31.

However, an Actor/Performer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $92,534
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $53,619 to $79,444
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $43,197
Salary Factors Salary-Boosting Skills Salary by Experience Related Job Salaries Top Paying Cities Explore Related Jobs

Key Factors That Influence Actor/Performer Salaries

An Actor/Performer's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

How Do Actor/Performer Salaries Vary from State to State?

Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Actor/Performers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
  • District of Columbia: $72,042.
  • California: $71,769.
  • Massachusetts: $70,813.

Top Paying Cities for Actor/Performers

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $82,069
  • San Francisco: $81,171
  • Oakland: $79,460

Actor/Performer Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Actor/Performer salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $65,067. While startup companies pay approximate $65,067.

Actor/Performer Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $65,067
Growth Stage 51~500 $65,067
Established 501~5000 $65,067
Enterprise 5000+ $65,067

Actor/Performer Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how an Actor/Performer's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on September 01, 2026
$53,619
Average $65,067/year
$79,444
$4,468
Average $5,422/month
$6,620
$1,031
Average $1,251/week
$1,528
$26
Average $31/hour
$38
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $79,444 $6,620 $1,528 $38
Average $65,067 $5,422 $1,251 $31
25th Percentile $53,619 $4,468 $1,031 $26

Actor/Performer Salary Growth & Career Path

Actor/Performer

Next Role

Advancement

Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Actor/Performer, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.

Next Step Role Estimate Salary Projected Raise
Talent Director $73,662 13%
Activity Specialist $36,802 -43%

Most common benefits for Actor/Performer

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Actor/Performer

1. Where can an Actor/Performer earn the most?

An Actor/Performer's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an Actor/Performer earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an Actor/Performer is $82,069.

2. What is the highest pay for Actor/Performer?

The highest pay for Actor/Performer is $92,534.

3. What is the lowest pay for Actor/Performer?

The lowest pay for Actor/Performer is $43,197.

4. What are the responsibilities of Actor/Performer?

Portrays a role in a production to interpret character or present characterization to audience. Applies fundamental theatrical concepts and techniques. No formal experience or training necessary.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.

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