How much does a Athletic Trainer make?
Athletic trainers work with athletes to help prevent injuries and treat those who get hurt. This important job often takes place in schools, hospitals, or sports organizations. The average yearly salary for athletic trainers stands at approximately $65,636. This number offers a solid baseline, but actual earnings can vary based on several factors.
Several elements influence an athletic trainer's salary. Experience and education play a big role. Those with more years in the field and higher degrees tend to earn more. Location is another key factor. Urban areas with higher living costs often offer higher salaries. Specializations and certifications can also boost pay. For example, someone who works directly with professional athletes might earn more than one who works with high school students. Understanding these factors can help in planning a career path.
What are the highest paying cities for a Athletic Trainer?

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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $95,112
In Bakersfield, working as a healthcare professional involves aiding athletes at local sports facilities and high schools. Opportunities exist with the Bakersfield Condors and Bakersfield College. The city’s strong sports culture provides a dynamic work environment.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $89,910
Bend offers a thriving community focused on outdoor activities. Professionals can find work with local schools, clinics, and sports teams. The city’s love for skiing and hiking makes it ideal for those who enjoy a mix of sports medicine and nature.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $85,863
San Francisco provides a bustling environment for sports professionals. Positions are available with top athletic teams and renowned sports medicine clinics. The competitive sports scene offers diverse opportunities for growth and collaboration.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $85,089
Sacramento offers a mix of urban and suburban settings. Professionals work with schools, sports teams, and fitness centers. The city's vibrant sports community ensures a steady demand for skilled healthcare providers.
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Riverside, CA
Average Salary: $83,535
Riverside combines a relaxed lifestyle with a strong sports culture. Opportunities exist in schools, local sports clubs, and universities. The city’s commitment to fitness and health creates a supportive work environment.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $80,100
San Jose provides a tech-driven atmosphere with ample sports opportunities. Working with professional teams and universities offers varied experiences. The city’s innovation and sports enthusiasm make it a great place for athletic trainers.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $79,460
Los Angeles offers a dynamic and diverse work environment. Positions are available with major sports teams, fitness centers, and schools. The city’s entertainment industry adds an exciting twist to sports medicine careers.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $78,310
Modesto provides a community-focused setting for healthcare professionals. Opportunities exist with local schools, sports teams, and recreational centers. The city’s strong emphasis on sports fosters a supportive work environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $75,648
San Diego offers a lively environment with a strong focus on fitness and sports. Professionals can find work with local sports teams, clinics, and schools. The city’s beautiful weather and outdoor activities enhance the work experience.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $74,745
Fresno provides a warm and welcoming environment. Opportunities exist with local sports teams, schools, and fitness centers. The city’s supportive community creates a fulfilling work experience for healthcare professionals.
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What are the best companies a Athletic Trainer can work for?

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Go4
Average Salary: $110,537
Go4 offers competitive salaries for Athletic Trainers. They focus on delivering personalized care. Locations include major cities across the country, ensuring plenty of opportunities.
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JAG Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $100,000
JAG Physical Therapy provides a supportive environment for Athletic Trainers. They emphasize professional growth and development. Their facilities are located in multiple states, providing diverse job options.
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DORN
Average Salary: $98,000
DORN values its Athletic Trainers and offers attractive compensation. They focus on holistic patient care. Their locations span several states, offering extensive career possibilities.
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ATI Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $93,531
ATI Physical Therapy is known for its robust salary packages for Athletic Trainers. They prioritize patient-centered care. Their locations are widespread across the country, making it easy to find a job.
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Russell Tobin
Average Salary: $87,837
Russell Tobin offers good compensation for Athletic Trainers. They focus on providing quality patient care. Their locations are numerous, giving ample job opportunities.
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MedStar Health
Average Salary: $84,823
MedStar Health provides solid salaries for Athletic Trainers. They emphasize teamwork and patient care. Their facilities are located in various regions, ensuring diverse job options.
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Fit For Work
Average Salary: $82,113
Fit For Work offers competitive pay for Athletic Trainers. They focus on providing exceptional patient care. Locations include several states, offering plenty of career opportunities.
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Seattle Children's
Average Salary: $82,099
Seattle Children's provides attractive salaries for Athletic Trainers. They focus on specialized care for children. Their location is in Washington, offering a unique opportunity in pediatric care.
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Work Right NW
Average Salary: $80,899
Work Right NW offers competitive pay for Athletic Trainers. They focus on comprehensive patient care. Their location in Washington provides excellent opportunities for those in the area.
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Doctors of Physical Therapy
Average Salary: $78,221
Doctors of Physical Therapy provides good compensation for Athletic Trainers. They emphasize patient care and professional development. Their locations include several states, offering various job opportunities.
How to earn more as a Athletic Trainer?
A career in athletic training offers many opportunities for growth and higher earnings. Athletic trainers can increase their income through various means. Building the right skills and experience can open doors to higher-paying positions. Athletic trainers can also improve their marketability and chances of earning more by gaining certifications and expanding their knowledge in specialized areas.
Consider these factors to earn more as an athletic trainer:
- Certification and Specializations: Getting certified by recognized bodies can boost your credibility. Specializations in areas like sports medicine, pediatrics, or nutrition can make you more valuable to potential employers.
- Gain Experience: More years of experience often lead to higher pay. Working in various settings, such as schools, hospitals, or professional sports teams, can also increase your earning potential.
- Continuing Education: Keeping your skills up to date with the latest training techniques and technologies can help you stand out. Attending workshops, seminars, and earning additional certifications can make you more attractive to employers.
- Networking: Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities. Connecting with other athletic trainers, healthcare professionals, and coaches can lead to job leads and higher-paying positions.
- Geographic Location: Earnings can vary widely by location. Urban areas or regions with a high demand for athletic trainers often offer higher salaries. Consider relocating to areas with better pay and more opportunities.



