The job market for singers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 172,400 singers in the United States. The singer job market is expected to grow by 6.0% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are singers?

CareerExplorer rates singers with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 14,100 singers. That number is based on 10,400 additional singers, and the retirement of 3,700 existing singers.

Are singers in demand?

The vast number of people wishing to enter the performing arts will continue to greatly exceed the number of openings. Full-time, high profile jobs are rare and especially difficult to secure, even for singers with exceptional talent and extraordinary dedication. New singers should look to community-based performing arts companies, local entertainment venues, and religious organizations as both their best job prospects and their best training ground. Unfortunately, in this occupation, talent does not guarantee success. The work is demanding and is typically characterized by long periods of intermittent unemployment. Auditions commonly result in rejection. During economic downturns, job numbers for singers generally fall due to limited funding and reduced corporate sponsorships for orchestras, opera companies, and other musical groups. At least in the initial stages of their careers, aspiring singers should be prepared to supplement their income with earnings from other sources. Despite the challenges for aspiring entrants to this occupation, public demand for musical entertainment is increasing and should result in moderate numbers of singers being hired as backup artists for tours and recordings. Digital downloads, streaming platforms, and nationally and internationally televised talent shows are presenting singers with alternative methods to showcase their talent and legitimate chances to jumpstart their professional careers.

What’s the supply of singers?

The singer industry is concentrated in New York, California, Tennessee

Singer job market by state