Even store Santas are struggling to find a job these days

Being a professional Santa Claus is no easy task, especially when job opportunities are dwindling. This holiday season, job listings for store Santas have decreased by 35% compared to the previous year, as reported by Revelio Labs. The decline in postings can be attributed to budget cuts by employers, the closure of malls, and the growing trend of online shopping, which has led to fewer parents taking their children to see Santa in person.

The decrease in Santa job openings reflects a broader trend of soft holiday hiring in the retail sector this year. With the national unemployment rate reaching 4.6% in November, retailers are looking to cut costs wherever possible. Despite the challenging job market, there is a silver lining for aspiring Santas – the median hourly wage for Santa roles has increased to $25, up from $21.89 in 2022.

However, the job requirements for Santa roles have become more stringent, with approximately 70% of listings now mandating a real beard, compared to just 14% three years ago. This shift has led to an increase in average wages, not due to higher pay rates, but because employers are only hiring from a pool of candidates with real beards, who tend to command higher salaries.

Despite the challenges, aspiring Santas are encouraged to persevere and make the most of the opportunities available. With the holiday season in full swing, there is still a demand for Santa Claus performers who can bring joy and cheer to children and families.