Earnings for cantors vary by synagogue and movement, with larger synagogues typically paying the highest salaries (but not always). The U.S. Department of Labor does not collect salary information for cantors, 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 to $73,310 or more.
The DOL reports that singers and musicians in religious organizations earned median annual salaries of $101,608. Earnings for those who worked in all industries ranged from $33,322 to $212,160 or more.
Full-time cantors receive paid vacation, sick, and personal days; medical, dental, and life insurance; and a 401(k) retirement plan. Cantors may earn additional income from concert performances.