What do non-union actors earn in New York City?

Non-union actor pay in NYC varies widely. Micro drama leads earn $700-$1,400/day, indie film leads get $500-$1,100/day, and non-union commercials pay $500-$1,400/day. Extras typically earn $100-$250/day. Student films often pay nothing or offer a small stipend.

Is New York City good for non-union acting?

Yes. NYC is one of the best cities for non-union actors, with consistent work in indie film, micro drama, commercials, web series, and theater. The state offers generous tax incentives that attract major productions, and the micro drama industry (ReelShort, DramaBox) has created thousands of new roles.

What are the most common acting scams in NYC?

The most common scams include pay-to-play casting workshops ($200+), fake casting calls on Craigslist asking for upfront fees, and talent managers who require you to take expensive classes at a specific school. Always verify casting calls through official platforms like Backstage or Actors Access.

How much does it cost to live as an actor in NYC?

Expect to spend $2,500-$4,000/month minimum. Most non-union actors share apartments in Brooklyn or Queens ($1,200-$2,500/month for a room). A MetroCard ($132/month) is essential. Many actors work service industry jobs to supplement their income between gigs.

Acting in New York City

New York·Major Market

New York City is the second-largest acting market in the US, with a thriving theater scene and growing film/TV production fueled by generous state tax incentives. Non-union actors find steady work in indie film, micro drama, commercials, and web series, though competition is fierce across all verticals.

Typical Rates

Role Type	Low	High	Unit
Lead (Micro Drama)	$700	$1400	/day
Supporting (Micro Drama)	$400	$850	/day
Lead (Indie Film)	$500	$1100	/day
Supporting (Indie Film)	$275	$700	/day
Non-Union Commercial	$500	$1400	/day
Web Series Lead	$200	$650	/day
Student Film Lead	$0	$200	/day
Extra/Background	$100	$250	/day

Rates are estimates based on industry reports and actor feedback. Check your specific rate.

Major Studios & Production Companies

Steiner Studios (Brooklyn Navy Yard)

Silvercup Studios (Long Island City)

Kaufman Astoria Studios (Queens)

Broadway Stages (Greenpoint)

Gold Coast Studios (Bethpage, LI)

Crazy Maple Studio (ReelShort HQ)

Common Scams to Watch For

Pay-to-play 'casting workshops' that charge $200+ for fake audition access

Fake Netflix/Hulu casting calls posted on Craigslist or Instagram asking for upfront fees

Photographers offering 'free headshots' that require buying prints at inflated prices

Talent managers requiring expensive acting classes at a specific school as a condition of representation

Non-existent 'indie films' that collect personal info and never follow up

Got a suspicious casting call? Scan it for red flags or check the Scam Database.

Cost of Living for Actors

Typical Rent

$1,200-$2,500/mo (room in shared apartment)

NYC is one of the most expensive cities for actors. Most non-union performers share apartments in Brooklyn, Queens, or Upper Manhattan to keep rent manageable. Expect to spend $2,500-$4,000/month minimum on rent, food, transit, and headshots.

-Look in Bushwick, Ridgewood, and Washington Heights for cheaper rooms
-A monthly MetroCard ($132) is essential - most auditions and sets are subway-accessible
-Join actors' Facebook housing groups for sublets when people book out-of-town gigs
-Many non-union actors supplement income with restaurant/service industry work