Athletes and Sports Competitors: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 14,370 athletes and sports competitors, and they earn a median of $62,360/year. The range runs from starting around $25K. New Jersey pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level athletes and sports competitors start around $25K. The gap between that and the median ($62K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $215K | 360 |
| Utah | $179K | 290 |
| Texas | $95K | 1,380 |
| New York | $87K | 400 |
| Connecticut | $84K | 150 |
| Iowa | $78K | 60 |
| Indiana | $75K | 120 |
| Georgia | $72K | 2,390 |
| Missouri | $68K | 420 |
| Virginia | $63K | N/A |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a athletes and sports competitors make?▼
The median athletes and sports competitors salary in the United States is $62,360 per year ($0/hour). Entry-level positions start around $24,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $0.
What education do you need to become a athletes and sports competitors?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for athletes and sports competitors?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for athletes and sports competitors.
What are the highest paying states for athletes and sports competitors?▼
The highest paying states for athletes and sports competitors are New Jersey ($214,630), Utah ($178,920), Texas ($94,660), New York ($86,890), Connecticut ($84,460). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.