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Do Artists Grow up in Wealthier Households than Doctors?

Adults who become artists grew up in wealthier households than doctors, according to a study of 12,000 participants over a 40-year period. The average artist grew up in a household with an annual income of about $65,000 US Dollars (USD), while the average childhood household income of a doctor was about $55,000 USD. On average, doctors made about 40% more money per year than their parents did, while artists made about 30% less than their parents. One reason why artists tend to come from wealthier households might be that children in those families have the financial security to pursue fields that are not as high-paying.

More about household income and future occupations:

  • Lawyers and judges grew up in the wealthiest households, on average, at about $85,000 USD per year.

  • Adults in the farming, fishing and forestry industries typically grew up in the lowest-income households, where the average income was less than $35,000 USD per year.

  • Those who work in religious jobs tend to have an income that is the most similar to what their parents made.
Allison Boelcke
By Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke, a digital marketing manager and freelance writer, helps businesses create compelling content to connect with their target markets and drive results. With a degree in English, she combines her writing skills with marketing expertise to craft engaging content that gets noticed and leads to website traffic and conversions. Her ability to understand and connect with target audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Discussion Comments
By anon947116 — On Apr 24, 2014

I beg to differ. I am from a low income household and I consider myself an artist. I just got my painting on the cover of my church's bulletin for Good Friday.

Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke
Allison Boelcke, a digital marketing manager and freelance writer, helps businesses create compelling content to connect with their target markets and drive results. With a degree in English, she combines her writing skills with marketing expertise to craft engaging content that gets noticed and leads to website traffic and conversions. Her ability to understand and connect with target audiences makes her a valuable asset to any content creation team.
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