In an effort to better understand New York's street performer culture, Daily News reporter Adam Edelman dressed up as Elmo and got a few unexpected surprises, including how much money can be made parading around Times Square in costume.

First, Edelman discovered that the costumed performers are a lot more organized than it would appear, many of them working as groups. He also discovered outsiders were not welcome.

Edelman also found these costumed characters, even those as cute as Elmo, aren't exactly striking it rich. He made all of maybe two dollars parading around in the uncomfortably hot suit.

It's a good thing the characters on Sesame Street live in a friendly and safe neighborhood.They probably don't make enough to move somewhere else.

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