Can you earn an average income as a local actor?

-Allow me to clarify. The way people talk about making a living as an actor, it seems like there are only two possibilities -- either struggling to get by, waiting tables for income or "making it" in Hollywood. Isn't there a middle road, making say $40,000 a year acting in local productions? Why does it seem like it's either international fame or nothing when it comes to acting? I hope my question is clear. Thanks!I think most of the struggle that comes to mind in terms of actors has to do with the fact that you are virtually never steadily employed. If you do manage to get jobs at local dinner theaters or even regional theatres, you're in better shape. Also try to get an Equity Card and take the necessary steps to obtain one. Teaching drama and acting is a semi-lucrative way to get by too. There is a middle road, but even that is shaky, and there's always that terror between jobs when you're unemployed again. Acting's simply not one of the steadier professions. Simple as that. Good luck, though.