Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers
O*NET 27-3043.05 · SOC 27-3043
Poet is a risky career choice. Median pay is $77k a year with -0.3% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 11,900 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Write poetry, lyrics, or creative prose in various forms
- →Develop original creative works for publication or performance
- →Revise and refine creative pieces based on editorial feedback
- →Submit works to literary journals, publishers, or music producers
- →Perform or present original works at readings and events
Education & How to Get In
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Poet roles. Related majors and internship experience during college significantly improve your chances. Many employers also value relevant certifications or project portfolios alongside the degree.
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 Poet involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Poet?
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 Poet 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 Poets, Lyricists and Creative Writers is projected to decline 0.3% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·65% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·Industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory
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
How much does a Poet make?
The median Poet earns $77k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Poet jobs?
Our model puts Poet at 27 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 65% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; industry sector with high AI adoption trajectory.
Is Poet a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 0.3% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 11,900 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Poet?
A bachelor's degree is the standard entry point for Poet roles, and relevant internships matter as much as the subject.
How long does it take to become a Poet?
Typically about four years, typically a bachelor's degree. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 4 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Poet 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.
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