How to become actorseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
—
National statistics
Top pay (est.)
—
Top 10% —
Pay in 5 years
—est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
—est.
—
Outlook score
48/100
★★☆☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
29%
Low
Job growth (10 yr)
+0.0%
6,300 openings / yr
How to become actors
Typical education
Some college, no degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Long-term on-the-job training
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Actors
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Thinking CreativelyEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsPerforming for or Working Directly with the PublicPerforming General Physical ActivitiesGetting InformationCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkUpdating and Using Relevant Knowledge
Important abilities
Speech ClarityMemorizationOral ExpressionOral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionNear Vision
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 2 — some preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as actors
Career-path guidance is being prepared.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.