How much does a Athletic Trainer make?
Athletic trainers help athletes stay healthy and perform at their best. This role is important in many places, from schools to professional sports teams. The average yearly salary for an athletic trainer is about $62,707. This number can vary based on experience and location.
Some factors can change how much an athletic trainer earns. These include years of experience, the place they work, and the sport they focus on. Trainers with more experience often make more money. Those who work for professional teams usually earn more than those at high schools or colleges. Specializing in popular sports like football or basketball can also lead to higher pay. Despite these differences, the average salary gives a good idea of what to expect in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Athletic Trainer?

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Springfield, MA
Average Salary: $100,088
In Springfield, MA, professionals work closely with local sports teams and rehabilitation centers. Opportunities exist with notable institutions like Baystate Medical Center, offering diverse experience.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $95,240
Bakersfield, CA, provides a thriving environment for athletic trainers. The area's active sports scene means trainers often work with schools and local sports teams, including the Bakersfield Condors.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $87,736
Bend, OR, offers an outdoor-focused lifestyle, making it ideal for athletic trainers. Working with sports teams and outdoor enthusiasts, professionals enjoy a healthy work-life balance.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $83,799
Sacramento, CA, has a bustling sports community. Trainers often collaborate with schools and professional teams. Opportunities include working with the Sacramento Kings and local universities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $82,318
San Francisco, CA, provides a dynamic environment for athletic trainers. Working with top-tier sports teams, professionals can gain experience in a high-pressure yet rewarding setting.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $81,332
Riverside, CA, offers a mix of professional and collegiate sports opportunities. Trainers can work with universities and local sports teams, providing diverse experience.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $77,526
San Jose, CA, is home to a growing tech industry and vibrant sports scene. Athletic trainers often find work with tech company teams and local sports programs.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $77,316
Los Angeles, CA, offers endless opportunities for athletic trainers. Working with professional sports teams, universities, and clinics, professionals can build a diverse career portfolio.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $76,884
Modesto, CA, provides a close-knit community for athletic trainers. Opportunities include working with local schools and sports teams, offering a balanced work environment.
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Boulder, CO
Average Salary: $72,054
Boulder, CO, attracts athletic trainers with its active lifestyle. Professionals often work with outdoor sports teams and universities, enjoying the beautiful mountain environment.
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What are the best companies a Athletic Trainer can work for?

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Russell Tobin & Associates
Average Salary: $88,347
Russell Tobin & Associates offers competitive pay for Athletic Trainer jobs. They focus on providing top-tier healthcare services and operate across multiple locations, ensuring ample opportunities for Athletic Trainers.
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Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists
Average Salary: $82,000
Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists is known for its commitment to sports medicine. They have several clinics in Central New York, offering varied experiences and responsibilities for Athletic Trainers.
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Work Right NW
Average Salary: $81,000
Work Right NW is dedicated to workplace health. They provide a positive work environment with many locations in the Pacific Northwest, making it a great place for Athletic Trainers to grow their careers.
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YMCA
Average Salary: $78,182
The YMCA offers Athletic Trainer positions that focus on community wellness. With numerous branches across the country, YMCA provides diverse settings for professional development.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $75,730
Northwell Health is a leading healthcare provider with many facilities in New York. They value the role of Athletic Trainers in their comprehensive care programs.
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ATI Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $71,061
ATI Physical Therapy offers rewarding career paths for Athletic Trainers. They have a wide network of clinics, offering various opportunities for professional growth.
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Hopedale Medical Complex
Average Salary: $69,703
Hopedale Medical Complex provides a supportive environment for Athletic Trainers. They focus on patient care and have several locations in Massachusetts.
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Briotix Health
Average Salary: $69,408
Briotix Health offers a family-oriented work environment. They focus on occupational health and have multiple locations, providing a range of experiences for Athletic Trainers.
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NYU Langone Health
Average Salary: $69,236
NYU Langone Health is a renowned healthcare organization. They offer advanced facilities and numerous opportunities for Athletic Trainers to work in a prestigious setting.
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Mercyhealth
Average Salary: $68,764
Mercyhealth is committed to providing excellent healthcare services. They have locations in Illinois and Wisconsin, offering various opportunities for Athletic Trainers to enhance their skills.
How to earn more as a Athletic Trainer?
As an athletic trainer, earning more requires strategic planning and dedication to professional growth. Increasing your earning potential can come from several key factors that involve enhancing skills, gaining certifications, and expanding your professional network. Continuous education and skill development will keep you ahead in the field, making you more valuable to employers. Additionally, specializing in areas such as sports medicine or working with specific athlete populations can open doors to higher-paying opportunities.
Networking plays a crucial role in salary advancement. Building strong relationships with other professionals can lead to job referrals and higher-paying positions. Attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and participating in online forums will help increase your visibility. Staying active in the athletic training community can also provide insights into the latest industry trends and salary benchmarks. Finally, taking on leadership roles or managerial positions within your workplace can significantly boost your earnings. These roles often come with higher salaries and additional benefits.
To further explore ways to increase income, consider these factors:
- Gain additional certifications
- Specialize in a niche area of athletic training
- Develop strong networking skills
- Pursue leadership roles
- Stay updated with the latest industry trends



