How much does a choreographer make?
a year · about $27 an hour
A typical choreographer in the United States makes $55,310 a year, about $27 an hour, about the same as a typical US worker (median, May 2025, US Bureau of Labor Statistics).
What do they do?
A choreographer tests dance ideas, then demonstrates the steps in a studio as dancers try them. During rehearsal, they adjust moves and formations and coach the dancers to perform safely.
Did you know? Many US dancers stop performing in their late 30s because dancing is physically demanding, but they may keep working as choreographers, directors, or teachers.
Is that a lot?
Compared with jobs you knowIf 100 people had this job
Most earn between $34,090 and $138,630How do you become one?
In the US, take dance classes young, practice many styles, and perform; most choreographers start as dancers and learn to create routines. A high-school diploma is usual, and some employers prefer or require a dance degree.
School needed: Vocational school or a few years' experience
Good for people who like creating and helping and teaching
Why does pay differ?
In the US, pay can change with a choreographer’s experience and skills, location, and kind of employer, such as a school or performing arts company. Many choreographers are self-employed or part-time, so the number of jobs and hours worked can also matter.
Where does it pay most?
Highest in New York ($173,100), lowest in Utah ($33,640).
See every state
Top 5 and bottom 3 states, typical (median) yearly pay.
Jobs like this
Data table and sources
| Lower earner (10th from bottom) | Typical person (median) | Higher earner (10th from top) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|---|
| $34,090 | $55,310 | $138,630 | about 3,000 |
| State | Typical person (median) | People in this job |
|---|---|---|
| New York | $173,100 | about 340 |
| California | $75,000 | about 410 |
| Minnesota | $74,810 | about 40 |
| Maryland | $69,140 | about 80 |
| Ohio | $66,910 | about 120 |
Official definition: Create new dance routines. Rehearse performance of routines. May direct and stage presentations.
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025 (bls.gov); descriptions and related jobs from O*NET 31.0. Figures as of May 2025, full-time yearly pay (hourly × 2,080 hours). bls.gov/oes · O*NET OnLine
Pages used for the text
- www.bls.gov/ooh/entertainment-and-sports/dancers-and-choreographers.htm
- www.onetonline.org/link/summary/27-2032.00
- www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2015/article/wage-differences.htm
Data: US BLS OEWS, May 2025 · 1 USD = 150 JPY