According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 515,000 people were employed as real estate brokers and sales agents as of 2022.
However, this is just one segment of the real estate workforce.
The broader real estate industry includes roles in property management, appraising, leasing, real estate law, and marketing, among others.
When you consider the total number of jobs across these various fields, it’s clear that the real estate sector is a major employer in the U.S.
If you're interested in exploring remote real estate jobs, you're part of a growing workforce that's finding flexibility and opportunity in this ever-expanding industry.
Real estate provides opportunities for individuals with different skill sets.
From administrative roles in real estate firms to property management positions and even more specialized fields like real estate appraising, the variety of job opportunities is wide-ranging.
With many real estate firms and services moving toward digital platforms, remote real estate jobs are becoming more prevalent.
These positions include virtual assistants for real estate professionals, remote leasing agents, and even digital marketing roles for real estate agencies.
How Many People Work in the Real Estate Industry in the U.S.?
The real estate industry is a substantial employer in the United States. Data USA shows that the real estate sector employed more than 2 million people in various roles across the country in 2022.
This number encompasses professionals ranging from brokers and agents to property managers and real estate appraisers.
It’s important to note that this figure doesn’t include related industries like construction, legal, or financial services that also intersect with real estate. When those are factored in, the industry supports even more jobs.
The real estate market is constantly growing, driven by population growth, new developments, and demand for housing.
With such a significant workforce, it’s clear that real estate is a vital part of the U.S. economy, contributing both directly and indirectly to the employment of millions.
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Is Real Estate a Good Career in the U.S.?
Real estate is not just a good career—it can be an excellent one for the right individual. One of the biggest advantages of a real estate career is the flexibility it offers.
Many professionals in this field have control over their schedules, with the option to work independently, whether through freelancing or as part of an agency. The potential for high earnings also makes it an attractive career choice.
According to the Bureau of Labour and Statistics, the median annual wage for real estate brokers was $62,010 as of 2022, while real estate sales agents earned a median annual wage of $48,770.
These numbers can vary widely depending on location, experience, and market conditions, with top-performing agents earning six figures or more.
Another key benefit is that real estate careers are accessible to people with different educational backgrounds.
While a college degree can be beneficial, many real estate careers only require state licensing and on-the-job training, making it easier to enter the industry compared to some other fields.
Additionally, with the rise of technology and online platforms, more roles are becoming available in areas like real estate tech, virtual property tours, and digital marketing. The growing trend of remote real estate jobs also appeals to people seeking more flexible work environments.
How Big is the Real Estate Industry in the U.S.?
The U.S. real estate industry is massive, contributing nearly $3 trillion to the U.S. economy annually.
Real estate is not just limited to the buying and selling of homes—commercial real estate, property management, and real estate finance are also key components of the industry.
With an ever-growing demand for housing and commercial spaces, the real estate industry plays a critical role in the overall economic landscape of the country.
According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), real estate has been a stable and growing market, with home sales and property values consistently rising over the past decade.
In 2022, the total sales volume for existing homes in the U.S. reached 5.64 million units, while new home sales added another 800,000 units.
Commercial real estate also continues to thrive, with increased demand for retail spaces, offices, and industrial properties.
This expansive industry isn't just about selling homes. It includes a wide range of businesses, from construction and development to financing and property management.
As the U.S. population continues to grow, so too does the need for housing, office spaces, and commercial buildings, all of which fuel the real estate job market.
Apply for Remote Real Estate Jobs
If you're asking “How many jobs are available in real estate?” The answer is: plenty.
The real estate industry in the U.S. is thriving and offers a wide range of career opportunities, with over 2 million people currently employed in the sector.
It’s an industry that’s expanding, with plenty of room for professionals with different skills, backgrounds, and interests.
With the rise of digital technologies, remote real estate jobs are becoming a more common pathway for those looking to break into the industry or transition into a more flexible role.
Check out the latest remote real estate jobs from ICONS of Real Estate.
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