As October rolls in, New Yorkers looking to pad their wallets have a spooky ally: the Halloween economy. From haunted houses in Queens to theme park fright nights upstate, seasonal gigs are popping up across the state, offering solid hourly pay and flexible schedules. For bicultural Latinos—many of whom already balance multiple jobs or side hustles—these roles can be a smart way to earn extra cash before the holiday rush.
Where the money is: haunted houses and theme parks
One of the standout options is A Haunting in Hollis, located on Hollis Avenue in Queens. They're paying $18 an hour for roles that include scare acting, crowd control, and ticket scanning. Shifts run from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays, with earlier starts on weekends, and they offer full training—so you don't need prior experience. It's a great entry point for anyone curious about the theatrical side of Halloween.
If you're in Manhattan, Swingers—the crazy golf club—is offering $150 for a single three-hour shift on October 31. They're looking for entertainers aged 18 and up who can sing, dance, do face painting, or balloon art. It's a one-night gig that pays well and lets you show off your creative side.
For those willing to travel a bit, Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson Township is hiring staff aged 16 and older at $19 an hour for roles in retail, security, and their popular Fright Fest event. Availability is needed Thursday through Sunday, including holidays, but the pay and the experience are worth it for many.
Beyond acting: operational roles and regional options
Not everyone wants to jump out of the dark in a mask. That's fine—haunted attractions also need ticket takers, food vendors, and queue managers. Gateway's Haunted Playhouse in Bellport is extending contracts through November 1, and they're specifically looking for interactive performers. They ask for a photo, resume, or letter of interest, followed by a video audition.
Up in Ulster Park, Headless Horseman Hayrides and Haunted Houses is a Hudson Valley favorite. They're hiring for various operational positions, but management stresses that evening availability is a must. They also provide thorough safety briefings on strobe lights, fog machines, and navigating tight spaces—so you can focus on the scares without worrying about the hazards.
For those who prefer to stay closer to the city, Twisted Trails is already recruiting scare actors for Halloween 2026, but they're also filling spots for this year. They advise checking the operating calendar and confirming your schedule before applying.
Timing and logistics: what to know before you apply
Transportation is a big factor. While Queens and Manhattan gigs are easy to reach, places like Ulster Park or Jackson Township require a car or a long commute. Make sure you factor in travel time and gas costs before committing.
Also, check age requirements and bring the right documents. Most venues follow strict labor laws, and you'll need to prove you're eligible to work in the U.S. If you're a student or have another job, many places offer flexible shifts that can work around your schedule.
Hiring typically ramps up in summer, but many attractions are still filling spots as October progresses. So if you're just now thinking about it, you're not too late—but you should act fast. Most positions disappear right after Halloween or in the first days of November.
For those who want to keep the spooky momentum going, check out our guide to the NYC Halloween Parade's zombie dancer call. And if you're thinking about longer-term financial moves, you might also want to read about Florida's minimum wage increase or Texas's new workers' comp benefits.
Whether you're a seasoned scare actor or a first-timer, New York's Halloween scene offers a unique way to earn extra income while being part of the city's vibrant autumn culture. So grab your costume, polish your best scream, and get ready to make some money—one fright at a time.
