How much does a Activities Director make?
An Activities Director plays a key role in organizing and leading events for people in various settings, such as nursing homes or community centers. The average yearly salary for this role is around $43,154. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of organization. For instance, those in larger cities or with more experience may earn more.
The salary range for Activities Directors can be quite broad. The lowest 10% earn about $29,000 per year, while the highest 10% earn over $68,000. Most directors fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries ranging from $36,227 to $57,909. This range shows that there are many opportunities for growth and advancement in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Activities Director?

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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $91,750
In Des Moines, leading community activities brings joy to many residents. With companies like UnityPoint Health, professionals can find rewarding roles. The city values community engagement and offers a supportive environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $67,329
Seattle offers a vibrant setting for those who love organizing events. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft provide excellent opportunities. The city's culture of innovation makes it a great place to work.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $65,444
Rochester is known for its healthcare focus. Mayo Clinic is a prominent employer in the area. Professionals here enjoy a strong community spirit and a chance to make a real difference.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $59,942
Syracuse provides a mix of urban and small-town charm. With companies like St. Joseph's Health, there are many opportunities to lead activities. The city values community involvement and offers a welcoming atmosphere.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $57,253
San Francisco, with its diverse culture, offers exciting opportunities for activity leaders. Companies like Google and Salesforce are prominent. The city's vibrant lifestyle makes it an appealing place to work.
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Detroit, MI
Average Salary: $56,400
Detroit is a city of resilience and innovation. Companies like Ford and General Motors offer many roles. The city values community and offers a chance to be part of something bigger.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $54,745
Albany provides a mix of history and modern opportunities. With employers like the New York State Government, there are many chances to lead. The city values public service and offers a supportive environment.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $54,201
Boston offers a rich history and many opportunities for those who love organizing events. Companies like Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital provide excellent roles. The city's academic and cultural scene is vibrant.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $54,022
San Jose, in the heart of Silicon Valley, offers exciting opportunities. Companies like Intel and Apple provide many roles. The city's innovative spirit and community focus make it a great place to work.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $53,526
Santa Rosa offers a blend of urban and rural living. With companies like Charles Schwab, there are many opportunities to lead. The city values community and offers a welcoming atmosphere.
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What are the best companies a Activities Director can work for?

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Des Moines Public Schools
Average Salary: $116,287
Des Moines Public Schools offers rewarding Activities Director jobs. They operate in Des Moines, IA. This role involves planning and leading activities for students. It is a great chance to make a difference in young lives.
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San Jose Healthcare & Wellness Center
Average Salary: $69,571
San Jose Healthcare & Wellness Center provides a good salary for Activities Directors. They serve the San Jose, CA area. This role focuses on creating fun and engaging activities for seniors. It is a chance to improve the quality of life for older adults.
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Merrill Gardens
Average Salary: $58,947
Merrill Gardens offers a competitive salary for Activities Directors. They operate in several locations, including St. Louis, MO. This role involves organizing events and activities for residents. It is a rewarding job that helps seniors stay active and engaged.
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Juniper Communities
Average Salary: $56,410
Juniper Communities provides a solid salary for Activities Directors. They serve areas in Florida and Texas. This role includes planning social activities and events. It is a great opportunity to work with seniors and enhance their living experience.
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Arrow Senior Living
Average Salary: $52,584
Arrow Senior Living offers a good salary for Activities Directors. They operate in multiple states, including Ohio and Indiana. This role focuses on creating fun and meaningful activities for seniors. It is a chance to make a positive impact on the lives of older adults.
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Autumn Lake Healthcare
Average Salary: $50,972
Autumn Lake Healthcare provides a fair salary for Activities Directors. They serve areas in Maryland and Virginia. This role involves organizing activities and events for residents. It is a great opportunity to work with seniors and improve their quality of life.
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CommuniCare Health Services
Average Salary: $49,763
CommuniCare Health Services offers a decent salary for Activities Directors. They operate in several states, including Washington and Oregon. This role includes planning and leading activities for seniors. It is a rewarding job that helps older adults stay engaged and active.
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Centers Health Care
Average Salary: $49,095
Centers Health Care provides a good salary for Activities Directors. They serve areas in New York and New Jersey. This role involves organizing events and activities for seniors. It is a chance to make a positive impact on the lives of older adults.
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Five Star Senior Living
Average Salary: $47,340
Five Star Senior Living offers a fair salary for Activities Directors. They operate in several states, including California and Florida. This role focuses on creating fun and engaging activities for seniors. It is a rewarding job that helps older adults stay active and engaged.
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Saber Healthcare Group
Average Salary: $47,279
Saber Healthcare Group provides a decent salary for Activities Directors. They serve areas in Florida and Pennsylvania. This role includes planning and leading activities for seniors. It is a great opportunity to work with older adults and improve their quality of life.
How to earn more as a Activities Director?
Becoming an Activities Director can lead to a rewarding career. To earn more, focus on these key areas. First, gaining more experience can help. Directors with more years in the field often command higher salaries. Second, earning additional certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications in specialized areas like dementia care or event planning can make a director more valuable. Third, networking within the industry can open up higher-paying opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can lead to new job offers. Fourth, taking on leadership roles can increase responsibilities and pay. Directors who manage larger teams or oversee multiple facilities may earn more. Finally, seeking out positions in high-demand areas can lead to higher salaries. Urban areas or regions with aging populations often offer better pay for qualified directors.
To maximize earnings, consider these factors. An effective way to increase income is by improving skills. Directors who excel in planning and executing activities often receive higher pay. Another factor is the size of the facility. Larger facilities with more residents may offer higher salaries. The type of facility also matters. Retirement communities, hospitals, and assisted living centers may have different pay scales. Directors with a strong track record of successful programs may earn bonuses. Lastly, negotiating salary can make a difference. Being prepared to discuss qualifications and achievements during interviews can lead to better offers.



