There are currently an estimated 44,700 glass blowers in the United States. The glass blower job market is expected to grow by 2.5% between 2022 and 2032.

How employable are glass blowers?

CareerExplorer rates glass blowers with a D employability rating, meaning this career should provide weak employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 8,300 glass blowers. That number is based on 1,100 additional glass blowers, and the retirement of 7,200 existing glass blowers.

Are glass blowers in demand?

The job outlook and demand for glass blowers is tied closely to the state of the manufacturing industry that employs many of these artisans. In a strong economy, factories increase production and hire more workers to create glassware, decorative items, or glass for science and industry. In turn, consumers have higher disposable incomes, causing them to spend more on non-essential items. In the arts and crafts industry, glass blowers face stiff competition because the number of qualified and aspiring workers far exceeds the number of available jobs. In this sector, most opportunities are likely to be with studios or art galleries; or as freelancers through independent buyers. Some experienced glass blowers become teachers of this difficult, extremely creative, and highly specialized craft.

What’s the supply of glass blowers?

The glass blower industry is concentrated in California, Texas, Pennsylvania

Glass Blower job market by state

State Name Employed Glass Blowers
California 4,930
Texas 3,110
Pennsylvania 2,760
Ohio 2,690
Florida 2,280
Illinois 1,490
Wisconsin 1,490
Indiana 1,340
Massachusetts 1,160
Missouri 1,130
New York 1,060
Tennessee 1,050
Oklahoma 1,040
Georgia 1,020
Virginia 960
North Carolina 890
New Jersey 890
Utah 850
Minnesota 830
South Carolina 830
Iowa 740
Washington 740
Kansas 680
Kentucky 520
Arizona 400
Arkansas 360
Colorado 360
Nevada 330
Mississippi 330
Oregon 310
New Hampshire 270
West Virginia 260
Maryland 250
Alabama 210
Connecticut 180
Maine 160
Nebraska 150
Montana 150
Vermont 130
Louisiana 120
Delaware 110
Rhode Island 60
North Dakota 60
New Mexico 50
South Dakota 50
Idaho 50