Economists
🤍 Save CareerEconomists play a vital role in the US economy, with 18K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $115,440, with projected growth of 1% through 2034 (Slower than average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
➡️ Stable — 1% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
This career faces substantial disruption from AI automation.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Economists
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Economists
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
Economists perform work that is almost entirely digital, involving data analysis, mathematical modeling, and technical writing. AI is exceptionally proficient at the core tasks of this role, including processing large datasets, identifying statistical patterns, and generating reports, which significantly increases productivity and reduces the number of human workers needed for routine analysis.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 1% projected growth and a median salary of $115,440, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in economists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Economists make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Economists is $115,440 per year. Entry-level positions start around $69,264, while experienced professionals can earn up to $184,704 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Economists?▼
Entry typically requires master's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is master's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Economists?▼
Most Economists positions require master's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Economists?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Economists. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Economists do on a daily basis?▼
As a economist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Economists a good career in 2026?▼
With 1% projected growth and a median salary of $115,440, this career offers stable prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 1%, which is declining. The median salary of $115,440 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Economistss?▼
Economists has an AI automation risk score of 90/100 (Very High). This career faces significant evolution from AI. However, new specialized roles are emerging that combine domain expertise with AI capabilities.
What kind of person makes a good Economists?▼
Anyone interested in economists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Economists Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Economists matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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