- Salary statistics
- Jockey
Jockey
44 100 - 44 900 kr / month
Pedagogiskt arbete
Salary progression Jockey
What does a Jockey do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A jockey is a professional rider who competes in horse races with a focus on riding racehorses to victory. Tasks include training horses for competition, participating in races, and working closely with trainers and horse owners to maximize performance. The jockey assesses the horse’s condition, selects appropriate equipment, and is responsible for following racing rules and safety regulations. The work environment is physical and often outdoors, with work taking place on racecourses and training facilities regardless of weather. The profession involves early mornings, travel between race locations, and a high level of physical exertion, where speed, balance, and decision-making are critical for success.
Salary Development Over Time
Jockey salaries have increased significantly in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 31,926 kronor per month. The following year, it rose to 41 300 kronor, representing an increase of approximately 29%. In 2024, the average monthly salary has further increased to 44 900 kronor, a growth of about 9% from the previous year. This positive trend can be partly explained by increased demand for professional athletes, a higher number of competitions, and larger prize pools and sponsorship earnings. At the same time, competition for top races has increased, benefiting the most successful jockeys financially. Overall, the development indicates that the profession has become more attractive and that salary levels are expected to continue being competitive.
Jockey Salary – Complete Overview
- Average salary: 44 900 kr/month
- Lowest/Highest salary: Individually dependent, often on prize money and assignments
- Hourly wage: 270 kr/hour
- Gender differences: No specific salary statistics available
- Regional differences: Data missing, but larger cities and major racecourses tend to offer more assignments
Education and Qualifications
The path to becoming a jockey requires both formal education and practical experience in horse sports. Many start as apprentices with established trainers and combine this with specialized training. Physical fitness, technical training, and regular contact with racehorses are central parts of qualification requirements. Besides riding skills, a good understanding of racing rules and horse care is also necessary.
- Formal education: High school programs with a focus on horses or sports
- Certification: Jockey license after approved training and practice
- Practical training: Apprenticeship with a professional trainer
- Prerequisites: Good riding experience and interest in horse sports
- Courses: Safety, racing rules, and training methods
Many jockeys start their careers as teenagers and get their first race assignments at a very young age. This means experience and networks in the industry are often built early, which can be crucial for future success.
Common Benefits and Compensation
In addition to base salary, jockeys often receive prize money, placement bonuses, and sponsorship earnings. Many are also offered travel allowances, equipment support, and sometimes insurance covering both person and horse during competitions. Employers and trainers may also provide accommodation or stable space during the racing season.
Competition and Challenges
The competition within the jockey profession is intense, with a limited number of racehorses and races each season. The most successful riders often get the best assignments, making it difficult for new or less established jockeys to break through. Physical endurance and low body weight are required, demanding discipline and lifestyle management. The risk of injury is significant due to speed and large animals, resulting in high physical and mental demands. Success requires endurance, skill, and the ability to build long-term relationships with trainers and horse owners.
Tips for Aspiring Jockeys
To succeed as a jockey, it is beneficial to develop good riding technique and strong physical condition early on. Discipline is essential, as the profession requires strict weight control and daily training. Being attentive and communicative facilitates cooperation with trainers and horse owners, increasing chances for more assignments. Courage is a key trait, as competitions are often intense and require quick decisions. Endurance and patience are needed to handle setbacks and build a good reputation in the industry. It is also wise to seek internships and participate in youth races to gain experience. Finally, networking and relationship-building are crucial for securing more race opportunities and developing as a jockey.
Key Facts about Jockey
- Occupational group: Professional athletes
- Average salary: 44 900 kr/month
- Work environment: Outdoors, often under tough weather conditions
- Education pathway: Apprenticeship system and specialized licensing
- Demand: 434 job openings in the occupational group according to current statistics
Career Paths and Future Outlook
After three to five years in the profession, a jockey can advance to become the first choice for larger training stables or specialize in certain types of races, such as hurdle racing or international competitions. Some choose to further educate themselves as trainers or agents within the horse industry, while others focus on building a strong personal brand through sponsors and media contacts. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, demand remains stable, with 434 job openings within the occupational group. Digitalization and increased interest in horse sports contribute to new opportunities, but competition for the most prestigious assignments remains high. Long-term success often relies on experience, networking, and continuous development of both technical and personal skills.
Common Questions about Jockey
- What does a Jockey earn?
- A jockey has an average salary of 44 900 kronor per month, but income can vary based on prize money and race frequency. - What education is required to become a jockey?
- Typically, a high school education with a focus on equestrian sports, an apprenticeship period, and an approved jockey license are required. - What is the work environment like for jockeys?
- The work environment is physical, outdoors, and often under tough weather conditions, with high demands on safety and discipline. - Are there regional salary differences for jockeys?
- Assignments and salaries can vary between regions, especially around major racecourses and in large cities. - How many job openings are available in the profession?
- Currently, there are 434 job openings within the professional athletes occupation group. - What personal qualities are important for a jockey?
- Endurance, discipline, courage, and good communication skills are crucial for success as a jockey.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 37700 kr | 38100 kr | |
| Snitt | 44100 kr | 44900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 39900 kr | 40500 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 Jockey has the SSYK code 3421, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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