How to become actuarieseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$130,000
25th–75th pct. $97,680–$170,650
Top pay (est.)
$279,600
Top 10% $215,100
Pay in 5 years
$147,400est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$167,100est.
$143,700–$194,000
Outlook score
57/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
74%
High
Job growth (10 yr)
+9.2%
1,500 openings / yr
How to become actuaries
Typical education
Bachelor's 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 Actuaries
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Analyzing Data or InformationProcessing InformationMaking Decisions and Solving ProblemsCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeGetting InformationEvaluating Information to Determine Compliance with StandardsOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
Important abilities
Number FacilityMathematical ReasoningOral ExpressionOral ComprehensionDeductive ReasoningInductive Reasoning
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 4 — considerable preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as actuaries
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
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.