How much does a Athletic Trainer make?
Athletic trainers work with athletes and sports teams to prevent and treat injuries. This job can be both rewarding and well-paid. The average yearly salary for an athletic trainer is $64,076. This means many in this field make more than the national average salary for all jobs.
The salary of an athletic trainer can vary based on experience and location. For example, trainers with less than one year of experience might start around $40,000. Those with many years of experience can make more than $100,000 each year. Some of the top earners make over $110,000. The highest-paying areas for athletic trainers are often large cities or places with major sports teams. These areas offer more opportunities and higher salaries.
What are the highest paying cities for a Athletic Trainer?

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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $94,891
In Bakersfield, professionals can find work with local sports teams and schools. Opportunities exist with organizations like the Bakersfield Condors. The city's active lifestyle offers a chance to engage with a variety of sports.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $91,066
Bend's vibrant outdoor scene makes it a great place for fitness enthusiasts. Here, you can work with local ski teams or at fitness centers. Companies like Cascade Sports Medicine attract skilled professionals.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $86,728
Sacramento provides a mix of urban and outdoor opportunities. You can work with the Sacramento Kings or local schools. The city's diverse sports programs offer varied experiences.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $83,067
San Francisco's athletic community is strong, with options in professional sports and fitness centers. Work with teams like the San Francisco 49ers or explore opportunities in tech company wellness programs.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $81,877
Riverside offers a growing market for sports medicine. You can find positions with local colleges or sports clinics. The area’s emphasis on health makes it ideal for those passionate about fitness.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $77,740
Los Angeles is a hub for sports and entertainment. Opportunities abound with professional teams and major events. Working here means being at the center of a dynamic sports culture.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $76,783
Modesto’s community spirit and strong sports programs create many job openings. Local schools and sports clubs offer diverse roles. The city’s active lifestyle supports various sports opportunities.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $75,910
San Jose’s tech-driven culture includes a strong sports sector. Work with professional teams or tech company wellness programs. The area’s innovative spirit makes it an exciting place to practice.
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Greeley, CO
Average Salary: $73,655
Greeley is known for its outdoor activities and strong community. Opportunities exist with local sports teams and colleges. The city’s dedication to health makes it a great place for fitness professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $73,499
San Diego offers a perfect blend of sports and leisure. Work with professional teams or at fitness centers. The city’s sunny climate and active lifestyle attract many sports enthusiasts.
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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 some of the highest-paying Athletic Trainer jobs in the industry. They work with top sports teams and healthcare facilities, providing excellent opportunities. Locations include major cities across the United States.
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MedStar Health
Average Salary: $84,555
MedStar Health provides rewarding careers for Athletic Trainers. They operate in several states, including Maryland and Washington D.C., and focus on delivering top-notch healthcare services. They offer a supportive environment for professional growth.
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Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists
Average Salary: $82,000
Syracuse Orthopedic Specialists offer competitive salaries for Athletic Trainers. They serve patients in New York and focus on orthopedic care. This company values its trainers and offers opportunities to make a significant impact on patient health.
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Work Right NW
Average Salary: $80,858
Work Right NW provides a high average salary for Athletic Trainers. They operate in the Pacific Northwest, focusing on workplace health and safety. This company emphasizes teamwork and professional development.
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PT Solutions Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $77,011
PT Solutions Physical Therapy offers good salaries for Athletic Trainers. They have multiple locations across the United States, providing extensive opportunities in physical therapy and sports medicine. They value innovation and patient care.
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Northwell Health
Average Salary: $75,606
Northwell Health provides competitive pay for Athletic Trainers. They serve the New York metropolitan area, focusing on comprehensive healthcare services. They offer a collaborative work environment and support for career advancement.
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ATI Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $71,873
ATI Physical Therapy offers attractive salaries for Athletic Trainers. They operate in multiple states and specialize in outpatient physical therapy. They focus on providing quality care and supporting their employees’ professional growth.
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Banner Health
Average Salary: $71,403
Banner Health offers a good salary for Athletic Trainers. They serve the Western United States, providing exceptional healthcare services. They emphasize a healthy work-life balance and opportunities for professional development.
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Briotix Health
Average Salary: $70,281
Briotix Health provides competitive pay for Athletic Trainers. They focus on workplace health and safety, operating in the Midwest. They offer a supportive environment and opportunities to make a difference in patient care.
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Illinois Bone & Joint Institute
Average Salary: $69,827
Illinois Bone & Joint Institute offers good salaries for Athletic Trainers. They specialize in orthopedic care, serving Illinois. They provide a collaborative environment and opportunities for professional growth.
How to earn more as a Athletic Trainer?
Athletic trainers can boost their earnings through several key strategies. One important step is gaining specialized certifications. These can cover areas like sports nutrition, emergency care, and performance enhancement. Adding such certifications makes an athletic trainer more valuable to employers.
Another way to earn more is by seeking positions in high-demand areas. These include professional sports teams, colleges, and large clinics. Experience in these settings often comes with higher pay. Networking with professionals in these areas can open up these opportunities. Continuing education also plays a role. Staying updated with the latest techniques and knowledge ensures an athletic trainer remains competitive. This can lead to better job offers and promotions. Lastly, taking on leadership roles can increase earnings. Positions like a team lead or director often come with higher salaries. These roles involve managing other trainers and overseeing programs.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as an athletic trainer:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Seek jobs in high-demand areas.
- Network with industry professionals.
- Pursue continuing education.
- Take on leadership roles.



