The U.S. Department of Labor does not collect salary information for archakas, but it does report that religious workers, not otherwise classified, earned median annual salaries of $37,960 in May 2023. Earnings ranged from less than $28,530 or less to $73,310 or more.
In India, annual salaries for archakas are quite low—the equivalent of $540 to $900 (in U.S. currency), according to New Delhi Television. In 2018, The Hindu stated: "Currently, the priests are placed at par with sweepers and are below drivers in designation." At that time, archakas were lobbying the government, which pays their salaries, to increase their pay. In 2023, the government of India instituted welfare measures for archakas, including insurance and education grants to their family members. Some archakas do not receive a salary, but are paid a fee for each ritual or ceremony they perform.
Full-time archakas receive paid vacation, sick, and personal days; medical, dental, and life insurance; and a 401(k) retirement plan. Some temples provide a vehicle allowance and year-end bonuses.