How much does a Athletic Trainer make?
An Athletic Trainer earns a solid income, with an average yearly salary of $66,000. This career offers competitive pay across various experience levels. The lowest-paid trainers start around $40,000, while the highest earners can make more than $100,000 annually.
Salary numbers vary based on many factors. These include the number of years of experience, location, and the type of employer. Athletic trainers working in larger cities or for professional sports teams often see higher earnings. Additionally, those with specialized skills or certifications can command higher salaries. This profession provides a promising outlook with the potential for growth and advancement over time.
What are the highest paying cities for a Athletic Trainer?

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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $94,971
In Bakersfield, professionals find fulfilling work with major health organizations. The area offers ample opportunities for sports medicine and injury prevention. Employment with local sports teams and schools is common.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $89,910
Bend offers dynamic roles focusing on outdoor sports and recreation. The area's active lifestyle attracts athletic trainers to work with ski resorts and outdoor clubs. Local sports medicine clinics provide diverse career paths.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $86,976
San Francisco's thriving sports scene offers exciting opportunities. Trainers work with professional teams and fitness centers. The city's health-conscious culture supports varied career options.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $85,219
Sacramento provides a range of roles in sports medicine and rehabilitation. Professionals often work with school sports teams and local clinics. The city's growing sports industry offers promising career growth.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $83,535
Riverside boasts a vibrant sports community. Trainers here work with college teams and local athletic clubs. The city's focus on health and fitness creates a supportive work environment.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $80,267
San Jose is a hub for sports medicine, with opportunities in tech-driven health facilities. Trainers collaborate with professional sports teams and innovative wellness centers. The city's progressive culture enhances career prospects.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $79,533
Los Angeles offers a dynamic environment for sports professionals. Trainers work with major sports franchises and entertainment-related fitness programs. The city's entertainment industry provides unique career pathways.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $78,950
Modesto provides a welcoming environment for athletic trainers. Opportunities exist in local schools and community sports programs. The city's focus on youth sports fosters a supportive career setting.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $75,760
San Diego's coastal lifestyle supports a strong demand for sports medicine professionals. Trainers work with local sports teams and marine-related fitness programs. The city’s active culture offers diverse career options.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $74,745
Fresno offers rewarding roles in sports medicine and rehabilitation. Trainers work with college sports teams and local health clinics. The city’s agricultural focus supports a growing sports community.
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What are the best companies a Athletic Trainer can work for?

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Go4
Average Salary: $110,075
Go4 offers competitive salaries for Athletic Trainers. They provide comprehensive training programs and support for career growth. Go4 operates in multiple states, with significant presence in California, New York, and Texas.
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DORN
Average Salary: $97,414
DORN is a company known for its excellent compensation packages for Athletic Trainers. They focus on holistic wellness and have clinics across several states, including Florida, Illinois, and Arizona.
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ATI Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $96,808
ATI Physical Therapy provides a high average salary for Athletic Trainers. They value employee development and have a strong presence in many states, such as Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Texas.
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Russell Tobin
Average Salary: $87,837
Russell Tobin is known for offering attractive compensation to Athletic Trainers. They offer a variety of job opportunities in states like New York, Florida, and California.
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Seattle Children's
Average Salary: $82,398
Seattle Children's provides a good salary for Athletic Trainers. They focus on pediatric care and have locations in Washington state.
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Work Right NW
Average Salary: $81,268
Work Right NW offers a fair salary for Athletic Trainers. They have a strong presence in Washington state and are known for their employee-centric policies.
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Doctors of Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $78,221
Doctors of Physical Therapy provides a competitive salary for Athletic Trainers. They have multiple locations in states like Florida and Pennsylvania.
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Fit For Work
Average Salary: $77,710
Fit For Work offers a solid salary for Athletic Trainers. They are a national company with numerous locations across the United States.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $77,187
Northwell Health provides a good salary for Athletic Trainers. They have a significant presence in New York and offer various career advancement opportunities.
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Fairview Health Services
Average Salary: $76,420
Fairview Health Services offers competitive salaries for Athletic Trainers. They have multiple locations in Minnesota and are known for their supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Athletic Trainer?
Looking to increase earnings as an Athletic Trainer? Consider these key strategies to advance your career and salary. Gaining specialized certifications can enhance skills and demonstrate expertise. Certifications like Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) can open new job opportunities and command higher pay.
Experience matters significantly in the field of athletic training. Working in high-demand sports environments, such as professional or collegiate sports teams, can lead to higher salaries. Networking within the industry and seeking mentorship from experienced trainers can provide job leads and insights into higher-paying positions. Gaining experience in diverse sports and age groups can make a trainer more versatile and valuable. Additional certifications and continued education can further enhance credibility and earning potential.
Consider these factors to boost earnings:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Gain experience in high-demand sports environments.
- Network within the industry for better job opportunities.
- Pursue additional certifications and continued education.
- Work in diverse sports and age groups to increase versatility.



