MusiCares’ 2026 Wellness in Music Survey: 5 Statistics That Paint a Sobering Picture
The situation is even worse for emerging professionals (aged 18 to 24).
MusiCares released the key findings from its 2026 Wellness in Music Survey on November 10, shedding light on the persistent issues that plague the music industry. Over 3,300 music professionals from across the United States, Puerto Rico, and more than 40 professions responded to the survey conducted in both English and Spanish. The annual survey examines more than 100 indicators, focusing on financial security, physical and mental health, access to health insurance and preventive care, substance use, and career confidence.
MusiCares concluded that the 2026 findings indicate the necessity for the industry to address not just individual wellness but also the underlying conditions affecting the ability of music professionals to maintain healthy and sustainable careers. In addition to a broader survey, dedicated outreach was conducted with emerging music professionals aged 18 to 24, supported by Live Free 999, a nonprofit founded by the family of the late rapper Juice WRLD.
Over the years, MusiCares has distributed over $146 million in financial assistance to the music community. The findings from this year's survey have enabled MusiCares to identify urgent needs and subsequently expand services. This includes enhanced access to women's and family care through Maven Clinic, increased education on cannabis use, and expanded preventive care services.
In response to last year's survey revealing persistently high rates of suicidal ideation among music professionals, MusiCares has further bolstered mental health resources by collaborating with The Jed Foundation (JED) to develop tailored mental health and suicide prevention resources for the music community.
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