How much money do comedians make?

You're at my blog and I appreciate that. My show schedule and more is at my real website. Email me about literally anything at adamnewman2 [at] gmail [dot] com.

Hey Adam,

I’m doing a series for (online publication) about how to make a living as a comedian. I’m looking for gigs you can do starting out that are in the realm of comedy. Any insight you have would be appreciated.

Hey,

When most comedians start out, they basically find a list of open mics and spend forever trying to get good for no money. Some comedians start their own shows in the backs of bars or basements of restaurants, too, but nothing pays for a long time. In the beginning, it’s probably smart to keep your day job, and spend your nights getting good.

I hope that’s helpful,

Adam

Adam,

Thanks so much for your help. Do you mind if I quote you? When you do shows now, do you get paid? If so, can you give me a range on how much? Is it on the books or off? Finally, I know your comedy CD has been a hit. Any chance you could tell me how it’s paid off financially?

Oh, how much do I get now? Now, when I do a spot at a club (Carolines, for example), I get $1,000 flat fee (under the table, cash, tax free). When I host, $2,500. Full weekends at clubs out of town: $15,000 plus travel/hotel/rental car (convertible in the summer, SUV in the winter). Colleges usually pay between $10,000-$20,000 for an hour show, but I usually bring an opener who I pay $75. The small NY bar shows only pay about $500 a pop, but you can usually do 3 or 4 a night. All the comedians who perform regularly at the improv theatres (UCB, PIT, etc.) are on salary ranging from $50K-$200K/year, and that’s also where we get our medical, dental, and pet(!) insurance. I’ve lost count of how much I’ve made off the CD. Honestly, it got to a point where I just told the record label to start sending checks directly to my favorite charity, LongHopes Donkey Shelter in Bennett, Colorado. Definitely feel free to quote me.

Adam