How Much Do Clowns Get Paid?

Pay for clown work varies widely, but typically, you can expect to make between $15,600 and $50,000 annually as a professional clown. Your compensation will depend on what type of clown you are and whether  you are salaried or non-salaried.

General Clowns

General clowns are the clowns you might see at an amusement park or hire for a party. These clowns entertain people by doing tricks and other performances, wearing brightly colored, fun costumes.

Rodeo Clowns

Some clowns work in rodeos. The rodeo clown has the job of distracting angry bulls and horses when cowboys are thrown from the saddle. This type of clowning is extremely dangerous, with many rodeo clown sustaining injuries as they try to lead animals away from riders. As a result, clowns who work in rodeos get higher pay than general clowns

Hourly and Package Freelancers Versus Salaried Clowns

Pay for clowns varies greatly depending on whether the clown freelances or is salaried. For a clown who charges by the hour or by package as a freelancer, rates of $50 to $250 per hour were normal in  2011 depending on their location.  Pay for salaried clowns such as those in circuses typically started at $300 per week in this year. Salaried clowns may have paid housing as they travel with their employers, and they also may get other perks like health benefits that freelancers have to cover on their own.

Gigs

Salaried clowns have much more consistent incomes than freelance clowns. Freelancers, can get more money if they can line up more gigs , but there is not always a consistent demand for clown work. For instance, work often is more available in the summer months, as weather for parties and outdoor amusement like rodeos is better. Many people who work as clowns often have other jobs that can supplement their income.