How Much Did a Cowboy Make

StateAnnual SalaryMonthly PayCalifornia$34,828$2,902New Mexico$34,768$2,897Iowa$34,671$2,889Florida$34,640$2,887

How much money did cowboys make on a cattle drive?

The men drove and grazed the cattle most of the day, herding them by relays at night. Ten or twelve miles was considered a good day’s drive, as the cattle had to thrive on the route. They ate grass; the men had bread, meat, beans with bacon, and coffee. Wages were about $40 a month, paid when the herd were sold.

What was being a cowboy like in the 1800s?

What was life like for cowboys back in 1800s America? The cowboy’s life was full of hard work, low pay, and little sleep especially at roundup time or on a trail drive. He would rise before the sun, have a quick breakfast of bacon, beans, bread and coffee, then saddle up for another 18 hour day in the saddle.