- Salary statistics
- Circus artist
Circus artist
35 200 - 35 300 kr / month
Women earn 100% of what men do.
Kultur, media, design
Salary progression Circus artist
What does a circus artist do? – Tasks and work environment
A circus artist works on creating and performing entertaining acts in acrobatics, juggling, clowning, aerial acrobatics, and other stage arts. Tasks vary depending on specialization, but all require physical strength, precision, coordination, and artistic sense. Circus artists train regularly to develop and maintain their skills, rehearse new acts, and participate in performances for audiences. The work environment is often flexible and can be indoors or outdoors, in tents, arenas, or on tour in different parts of the country or abroad. Safety routines and teamwork are crucial to minimize the risk of injuries in daily work.
Salary development over time
The salary for circus artists has shown a slight downward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,200 SEK per month, which decreased to 36 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary continued to decline to 35,200 SEK, representing a total decrease of approximately 5.5 percent over the period. This development can partly be explained by changes in the number of productions, decreased demand for live shows, and economic challenges within the cultural sector. Despite this, salary levels remain relatively stable, and gender differences are virtually nonexistent, which is uncommon in many creative professions. It is also notable that the salary range is very narrow, indicating a homogeneous wage structure within the profession.
Circus artist salary – complete overview
- Average salary: 35,200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 35,200 SEK/month (male)
- Highest salary: 35,300 SEK/month (female)
- Hourly wage: 212 SEK
- Women earn as much as men: Yes (women: 35,300 SEK, men: 35,200 SEK)
- Regional differences: No clear differences reported
Education and qualifications
The path to becoming a circus artist can vary, but the profession generally requires solid physical training, specialized skill development, and often some form of formal education in circus arts. There are specific programs at the high school and post-secondary levels, as well as opportunities for further education at international schools or through apprenticeships. The ability to work in teams, handle pressure, and develop original acts are central parts of the qualification requirements.
- Formal education: Circus gymnasium or vocational college (2–3 years)
- International circus schools: Opportunities for further training abroad
- Internship/trainee: Often part of the education or through apprenticeships
- Prerequisites: Physical fitness and a keen interest in stage arts
- Courses and workshops: Common for skill development
Working as a circus artist often involves a life on the road, where daily life can take place in different cities and countries. The international environment allows many artists to develop strong networks and gain experience from around the world. This contributes to a dynamic and creative professional life that few other careers can offer.
Common benefits and compensations
Circus artists are often covered by collective agreements that regulate vacation, sick pay, and insurance. Other common benefits include travel allowances, accommodation during tours, opportunities for skills development through courses, and preventive health care. In some cases, pension schemes and wellness grants are also offered.
Competition and challenges
Competition within the circus profession is significant, especially for permanent engagements and larger productions. Many artists work freelance or project-based, which demands flexibility and the ability to continually develop their artistry. Physical strain and the risk of injuries are major challenges, requiring long-term commitment to maintain both technique and fitness. Economic fluctuations and changes in the cultural sector can also affect the job market, making adaptability and openness to new working methods important.
Tips for aspiring circus artists
To succeed as a circus artist, it is good to combine endurance with a high level of creativity and courage. Regular training and continuous technical development are vital, along with being receptive to collaboration and feedback. Flexibility is important, both in working at different locations and in various productions. Having an open mind and willingness to take on new challenges can help you find your niche within the circus world. Self-discipline and the ability to handle pressure contribute to maintaining high performance levels. Finally, building a stable network of contacts is crucial, as many jobs are obtained through industry connections and recommendations.
Key facts about Circus Artist
- Education level: High school or post-secondary education in circus arts
- Work environment: Tour-based, both indoors and outdoors
- Employment type: Often freelance or project-based
- Demand: Approximately 620 available jobs in the profession
- Special skills: Physical performance and artistic expression
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a circus artist can advance to become a lead performer, choreographer, or instructor in circus arts. There are also opportunities to work internationally, start their own productions, or specialize in areas such as aerial acrobatics or clowning. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, demand remains stable with about 620 available jobs, but competition for the most attractive assignments remains high. Digitalization and new audience formats may open additional career paths in the future.
Common questions about Circus Artist
- What does a circus artist earn?
- A circus artist has an average salary of 35,200 SEK per month. Women earn an average of 35,300 SEK and men 35,200 SEK. - Are there significant salary differences between genders?
- No, women and men earn approximately the same as circus artists. - How does one become a circus artist?
- The common route is through circus gymnasium or vocational college, along with practical training and further education. - What work environments are common?
- Work often takes place on tour, both indoors and outdoors, in tents, arenas, or traveling. - What are the future prospects?
- Demand is stable with 620 available jobs and opportunities for an international career. - What is the highest and lowest salary for a circus artist?
- The highest salary is 35,300 SEK (female), and the lowest is 35,200 SEK (male). - What personal qualities are important in the profession?
- Endurance, creativity, teamwork skills, and courage are central qualities for circus artists.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 32600 kr | 32700 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 32600 kr | 32700 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 32600 kr | 32700 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 34400 kr | 34600 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 34400 kr | 34600 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25-34 | 34400 kr | 34600 kr | |
| Snitt | 100% | 34900 kr | 35300 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Circus artist has the SSYK code 3439, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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