Tour Guide Salaries

As a Tour Guide, you can expect to earn an average yearly salary of about $46,742. This amount reflects the exciting role you can play in showing people new places and experiences. Earnings vary depending on factors like experience, location, and the type of tours you offer.

Many Tour Guides start their careers earning around $23,000 per year. With time and experience, your salary can increase significantly. For example, after a few years, you might make about $32,273, or even more as you build your reputation.

At the higher end of the scale, some Tour Guides earn up to $125,000 per year. This level often comes from specialized tours, leadership positions, or working in high-demand tourist areas. Overall, the Tour Guide profession offers a range of salaries, giving you the opportunity to grow as you gain more skills and knowledge in the field.

1. Boston, MA
   Average Salary: $137,277
   Working in Boston offers the chance to share the rich history of the city. You can lead guests through landmarks such as the Freedom Trail and Quincy Market. Companies like Grey Line and Boston Duck Tours provide great opportunities in this field.
   Find Tour Guide jobs in Boston, MA
   




2. Houston, TX
   Average Salary: $90,252
   In Houston, job seekers can explore the vibrant culture and diverse attractions of the city. Tour guides can engage visitors with the space center, arts districts, and culinary tours. Several organizations, including Houston Historical Tours, seek knowledgeable guides.
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3. New Orleans, LA
   Average Salary: $83,435
   New Orleans has a lively atmosphere that makes working as a guide exciting. You can introduce guests to the unique music, cuisine, and historical sites of the French Quarter. Companies such as Gray Line and Free Tours by Foot often look for enthusiastic guides.
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4. Chicago, IL
   Average Salary: $68,372
   Chicago attracts many tourists eager to experience its stunning architecture and vibrant neighborhoods. Tour guides can take visitors to Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and famous museums. Organizations like Chicago Architecture Foundation are always on the lookout for passionate guides.
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5. Savannah, GA
   Average Salary: $62,639
   Savannah offers an enchanting setting for tour guides to connect with visitors. You can showcase the beautiful historic district, splendid parks, and charming squares. Companies like Old Savannah Tours provide wonderful opportunities for those who enjoy storytelling.
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6. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $61,070
   In Washington, DC, tour guides have the privilege of leading visitors through the nation's capital. You can explore museums, monuments, and government buildings with guests. Renowned organizations such as DC Trails and City Segway Tours often hire knowledgeable guides.
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7. Seattle, WA
   Average Salary: $59,451
   Seattle's stunning scenery and vibrant culture make it an exciting place for tour guides. You can share stories about the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the thriving food scene. Companies like Seattle Tours and Tours Northwest welcome enthusiastic guides.
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8. Nashville, TN
   Average Salary: $58,641
   Nashville's music scene provides an excellent backdrop for tour guides. You can share Nashville's rich history and vibrant nightlife with visitors. Organizations like Nashville City Tours are always seeking energetic guides to showcase the city.
   Find Tour Guide jobs in Nashville, TN
   




9. Dallas, TX
   Average Salary: $57,810
   Dallas offers a dynamic urban environment for those interested in guiding tours. You can take guests to iconic sites like the Dealey Plaza and the Dallas Arts District. Companies such as Dallas By Chocolate Tours value knowledgeable guides.
   Find Tour Guide jobs in Dallas, TX
   




10. Austin, TX
    Average Salary: $57,473
    Austin's unique culture and lively atmosphere make it an appealing place for tour guides. You can share stories about the city's music scene, food trucks, and festivals. Local companies like Austin Detours and Texas Trail Adventures often look for guides to lead tours.
    Find Tour Guide jobs in Austin, TX
    

1. See Sight Tours
   Average Salary: $79,500
   See Sight Tours offers exceptional guided experiences in popular tourist destinations such as Niagara Falls and Las Vegas. Tour guides enjoy competitive salaries while sharing their passion for adventure and creating lasting memories for guests.
   




2. Summit Achievement Of Stow, Inc.
   Average Salary: $65,000
   At Summit Achievement, located in Stow, Maine, tour guides work with youth and families in an outdoor therapy program. The guides receive strong compensation while providing support and education through outdoor activities.
   




3. GO Destination Services
   Average Salary: $55,000
   GO Destination Services operates in various locations across the United States, offering comprehensive travel and tour services. Their tour guides lead groups and ensure engaging experiences while receiving a fair salary.
   




4. Star Guides Wilderness Therapy
   Average Salary: $51,658
   Star Guides, based in the wilderness of the western U.S., combines therapy with outdoor adventures. Tour guides facilitate these trips and are compensated well for helping individuals develop personal skills in nature.
   




5. Flagstop Car Wash
   Average Salary: $44,272
   Flagstop Car Wash provides unique experiences by offering tours of their car wash process. Their tour guides educate customers while maintaining a friendly atmosphere, receiving a decent salary.
   




6. Hilton Grand Vacations
   Average Salary: $42,397
   Hilton Grand Vacations, a leader in the hospitality industry, employs tour guides to provide engaging experiences at various resorts and attractions. The company values its employees and offers competitive salaries.
   




7. Central Network Retail Group, LLC
   Average Salary: $41,632
   Central Network Retail Group manages a variety of retail locations and occasionally offers guided experiences. Tour guides play a key role in customer engagement, earning a respectable salary.
   




8. New York Power Authority
   Average Salary: $40,559
   The New York Power Authority provides educational tours about energy generation and conservation. Guides lead informative sessions, helping visitors understand important concepts while earning a solid income.
   




9. Smith Lawnscapes
   Average Salary: $36,067
   Smith Lawnscapes focuses on landscaping and provides informative tours of its projects. Tour guides share knowledge on landscape design and maintenance, supporting the company's visibility and earning a fair salary.
   




10. Delaware North
    Average Salary: $35,000
    Delaware North manages various parks and entertainment venues. Their tour guides offer unique insights into these locations, making them an essential part of the visitor experience while ensuring reasonable pay.
    

• Specialize in a niche: Select a specific area of expertise, such as history, food, or eco-tours. Specialization attracts clients looking for unique experiences.
• Improve storytelling skills: Engage guests with captivating stories. Great storytelling keeps clients interested and encourages repeat bookings.
• Offer private tours: Provide personalized experiences for individuals or small groups. Private tours often come with higher price tags and better tips.
• Promote online: Use social media and travel websites to reach a wider audience. Positive reviews and a strong online presence can increase bookings.
• Network with local businesses: Build relationships with hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Partnerships can lead to referrals and new clients.