“Dance isn’t a real job.” Sound familiar?

This misconception has stuck around for years—often because people don’t fully understand how the dance industry actually works. The truth? It IS possible to make a real, sustainable living through dance. You just need the right information, strategy, and work ethic to do it.

In this guide, we’re breaking down some of the most common ways dancers earn money, how much you might expect to make, and what it takes to get started.

NOTE: This information is intended to solely serve as a basis for non-union dancers looking to begin their journey of generating revenue with their art. For more in depth details on non-union work and for union guidelines, refer to dancersalliance.org for recommendations.

‍1. Teaching Dance

Teaching is one of the most consistent and accessible ways to start earning money as a dancer. There are a few different teaching paths to explore:

• Local Studio Classes: Start by reaching out to studios (connections help, but cold emails or calls can work too). Pay typically ranges from $15–$50 per class, plus bonuses for high student turnout.

• Private Lessons: Teach one-on-one sessions either in-person or online. These can pay $50–$200 per session depending on your experience and location.

• Dance Camps and Conventions: If you build a strong reputation (and following), you can teach at major camps and conventions, earning $500–$4,000 per class, plus travel, lodging, and per diem covered.

Pro Tip: Teaching isn’t just about making money. It’s about mentoring the next generation and building lasting relationships. Need a refresher on leading a class? Watch

“How To Be a Better Dance Teacher” featuring Shaun Evaristo

2. Dancing on Tour

Dream of dancing for your favorite artist? Touring is a major goal for many dancers.

• How to land it: Typically through a talent agency or direct auditions.

• Pay: Dancers earn between $1,000–$4,000 per week plus a daily per diem for food and travel expenses.

Touring builds your résumé, but it also requires serious preparation—including financial planning, travel organization, and flexibility.

Pro tip: Always stay professional and easy to work with—good energy gets you rehired.

3. Music Videos

Working on music videos can be a fun way to build your dance reel and get noticed.

• Booking: Often through auditions, direct invites, or submissions via platforms like Casting Frontier.

• Pay: Rates can vary wildly—from $0 (yes, really) to $900+ for an eight-hour shoot.

While music videos might not always pay the most, they’re great for exposure and building long-term industry connections.

4. Commercials, TV, and Film

Dancing in commercials, TV shows, and movies opens doors to bigger budgets and exposure:

• Commercials: $250–$1,000 per shoot day + possible buyouts for usage rights.

• Television: $600–$900 per shoot day with weekly rates up to $3,000 for longer gigs.

• Film: $750–$1,000 per day depending on the production scale.

Many of these opportunities are union jobs (through SAG-AFTRA), which can mean better rates, protections, and even residuals over time.

5. Joining a Dance Company

Want something more consistent? Professional dance companies offer seasonal contracts:

• Pay: Ranges from $400–$2,000+ per week depending on your rank (apprentice, corps member, principal dancer).

• Other perks: Health insurance, travel stipends, and performance bonuses—depending on the company.

Joining a company is hard work, but for many, it’s a deeply rewarding way to pursue artistry full-time.

6. Becoming a Dance Content Creator

In today’s world, dancers aren’t just working behind the scenes—they’re building their own brands online.

Ways to earn as a dance creator:

• Brand sponsorships and partnerships
• Ad revenue (YouTube, TikTok Creator Fund, etc.)
• Selling digital products or merch
• Affiliate marketing

Your engagement rates (not just your follower count) can now play the biggest role in how much you can charge. Rates vary dramatically, but creators with strong content and loyal communities can earn thousands per brand deal.

Reminder: Being a content creator means you’re your own director, editor, and marketer. It’s freeing but requires real hustle and consistency.

Final Thoughts

The dance industry is huge—and these paths are just the beginning. Whether you’re teaching in studios, performing on global tours, creating viral videos, or starring in commercials, there is a place for you to build a thriving career.

Stay smart. Stay flexible. And most importantly, stay passionate.

Ready to start your journey? Take a 7-day free trial of STEEZY Studio and start sharpening your skills today. 🚀

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