Economists
Conduct research, prepare reports, or formulate plans to address economic problems related to the production and distribution of goods and services or monetary and fiscal policy. May collect and process economic and statistical data using sampling techniques and econometric methods.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Economists to increase by 4.7% between 2024 and 2034, from 18,600 to 19,500 jobs. Its estimate of 1,100 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($124,720), education (Master's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
18,600
Projected employment (2034)
19,500
Projected change (2024–2034)
5%
Annual openings (projected average)
1,100
Pay & Preparation
$124,720
Master's degree
None
None
Essential Skills
Reading Comprehension (4.12/5) • Critical Thinking (4.12/5) • Mathematics (4.12/5) • Writing (4.12/5) • Active Listening (4/5) • Writing (4/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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