Dancers
O*NET 27-2031.00 · SOC 27-2031
Dancer is a solid career choice. The BLS publishes no median wage for this role with +2.2% projected growth through 2035 (slower than average) and about 1,600 openings a year. AI exposure: Low.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Rehearse choreographed routines daily to maintain performance quality.
- →Perform dance routines on stage before live audiences.
- →Attend costume fittings and technical rehearsals before shows.
- →Warm up muscles and stretch before each performance.
- →Learn new choreography from directors during rehearsal sessions.
Education & How to Get In
Most Dancer positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
Get Started Learning
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Work Environment
Creative — studios, agencies, or remote
Mixed — alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Dancer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Dancer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering — personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Dancer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Dancers is projected to grow 2.2% from 2025 to 2035, slower than average for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·41% creative/strategic tasks — AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·28% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
Will AI replace Dancer jobs?
Our model puts Dancer at 18 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is low risk — AI-resistant. The main drivers: 41% creative/strategic tasks — AI augments, doesn't replace; 28% physical tasks — limited by robotics progress.
Is Dancer a growing field?
Employment is projected to grow 2.2% between 2025 and 2035, which is slower than average. That works out to roughly 1,600 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Dancer?
Most Dancer roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Dancer?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Dancer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
Take the assessment →Free to take · Matches $9 · No account required · 7 minutes