New Yorkers Get Candid About How They Make Their Annual Salaries, from Sex Worker’s $284K to Lice Lady’s $75K

**Diverse Paths to Income: How New Yorkers are Earning Their Salaries**

In a vibrant and dynamic city like New York, residents are continually finding creative and unconventional ways to earn their livelihoods. A recent cover story from New York Magazine sheds light on the distinctive sources of income for some Manhattan locals, highlighting a range of occupations that paint an intriguing picture of the city’s financial landscape.

As part of a survey involving 60 residents of Manhattan, the magazine explored how various individuals sought to make ends meet, drawing comparisons to a similar poll conducted in 2005. The results reveal a wealth of unique occupations, including work as a sex worker, a matchmaker, a “lice lady,” and a theater-ensemble actress.

One of the more surprising entries is a sex worker who reported an impressive income of £284,000 in the previous year. Of this amount, £104,000 was classified as taxable income through activities such as escorting, porn, and cam modelling. The remaining £160,000 stemmed from cash gifts made by a partner to cover living expenses. This individual recounted their financial journey, noting that in 2024, their earnings soared to £800,000, with £1.2 million realised the year prior. Reflecting on the challenges of the industry, they observed a decline in earnings for many of their peers, particularly due to age-verification laws and increased competition from abroad, which has led some clients to opt for less expensive options.

Meanwhile, another unique profession highlighted in the survey is that of a “lice lady,” who earned £75,000 in 2025. This individual operates primarily in family-centric neighbourhoods in Brooklyn and Manhattan, providing services to families dealing with lice infestations. “We charge by appointment. If a family is fully infested, it requires two to three hours of work, costing between £150 to £225 per head, depending on hair length and severity,” they explained. This lice treatment professional also shared a personal aspect of their life, mentioning their eight-year-old daughter who lives in Georgia, their home country. Despite the difficulties of maintaining distance, they find joy in working with children daily.

Additional professions showcased in the article include a tugboat chief engineer, who reported earnings of £145,000. This individual highlighted New York Harbour as a lucrative port compared to others, such as those on the Mississippi River. They mentioned that their daily earnings amount to approximately £750, showcasing the higher wage potential available in the bustling New York waters.

A matchmaker also featured prominently in the article, revealing an income of £200,000. This individual’s occupation speaks to the emotional and relational dynamics of city life, where a growing demand for personal connections and relationships fuels business opportunities. Additionally, a ghostwriter detailed their earnings of £164,768, indicating a thriving market for ghostwriting, a profession often cloaked in anonymity but crucial for many authors and public figures.

Notably, the article also highlighted a Broadway ensemble actress, who has signed a contract that will net her around £50,000. She candidly spoke about the highs and lows of the theatre industry, remarking, “It’s a feast now, but it will be famine.” Her perspective speaks to the unpredictable nature of performing arts, where financial stability can often swing dramatically from one period to another.

This exploration into Manhattan’s unique earning avenues serves as a window into the diverse economic realities faced by New Yorkers. Whether through traditional roles or unconventional jobs, the ingenuity displayed in making a living reflects the city’s spirit of resilience and adaptability.

As the study illustrates, New Yorkers are not only navigating the challenges of an expensive city but are also embracing a range of activities that allow them to flourish in their distinctive environments. From tackling lice to matchmaking, these residents embody a spirit of entrepreneurship and creativity, pushing the boundaries of traditional notions of employment and income generation.