How much does a Music Therapist make?
Music therapists help people through music. They create sessions that support a person's health and well-being. The work pays well. The average yearly salary for a music therapist is $72,145.
Some music therapists earn less, while others earn more. Here is a look at the salary range for this job:
- The lowest 10% earn $36,030 or less.
- The next 20% earn between $36,031 and $54,933.
- The next 30% earn between $54,934 and $73,837.
- The next 20% earn between $73,838 and $92,741.
- The top 10% earn $102,193 or more.
What are the highest paying cities for a Music Therapist?

-
San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $103,545
In San Antonio, you can find rewarding work with organizations like the San Antonio State Hospital. This vibrant city offers a supportive environment to help patients through music. The demand for compassionate care is high here.
Find Music Therapist jobs in San Antonio, TX
-
Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $94,613
Sacramento is home to numerous facilities that value therapeutic music. With the California State University, Sacramento, there are ample opportunities for collaboration and professional growth. The city's warm climate makes it a pleasant place to work.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Sacramento, CA
-
Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $94,481
Syracuse offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. Institutions like Upstate Medical University provide excellent platforms for music therapy. The community's support for the arts makes it a great place to practice your craft.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Syracuse, NY
-
Denver, CO
Average Salary: $93,727
Denver’s high altitude and scenic beauty provide a refreshing backdrop for therapeutic work. Hospitals like the Denver Health Medical Center offer top-notch facilities. The city’s active lifestyle enhances the therapeutic experience.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Denver, CO
-
Austin, TX
Average Salary: $91,244
Austin’s vibrant music scene creates a dynamic environment for therapists. Organizations such as St. David's HealthCare offer extensive opportunities. The city’s laid-back vibe makes it easy to balance work and personal life.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Austin, TX
-
Miami, FL
Average Salary: $86,848
Miami’s diverse culture enriches the therapeutic process. The warm climate and multicultural environment provide unique challenges and rewards. Institutions like the University of Miami Health System offer excellent programs.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Miami, FL
-
Houston, TX
Average Salary: $81,460
Houston offers a thriving job market with numerous healthcare facilities. Companies like Memorial Hermann Healthcare System provide comprehensive support. The city’s energy and diversity make it an exciting place to work.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Houston, TX
-
Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $81,058
Tampa is a growing city with many opportunities in the healthcare sector. Employers like Tampa General Hospital offer robust programs. The city’s beaches and parks offer great places to unwind after work.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Tampa, FL
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $77,771
San Diego’s mild climate and beautiful surroundings make it an attractive place to work. Institutions such as Rady Children’s Hospital offer advanced facilities. The city’s focus on wellness aligns well with therapeutic practices.
Find Music Therapist jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Washington, DC
Average Salary: $77,578
Washington, DC, offers a mix of professional opportunities and cultural richness. Organizations like the National Institutes of Health provide excellent resources. The city’s historical sites and vibrant culture add to the overall experience.
Find Music Therapist jobs in Washington, DC
What are the best companies a Music Therapist can work for?

-
Liberty Resources, Inc.
Average Salary: $97,286
Liberty Resources, Inc. offers rewarding careers for Music Therapists. This company operates in Rhode Island. They focus on helping people with mental health needs and addiction. Their Music Therapists work with clients to improve their emotional and social skills.
-
Complete Therapies, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $90,263
Complete Therapies, L.L.C. provides top pay for Music Therapists. They work in Pennsylvania. Their goal is to improve the lives of children and adults with developmental and physical challenges. The company values each therapist's contributions.
-
The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $73,625
The Stepping Stones Group hires Music Therapists in several states. They focus on providing services to children and adults with autism and other special needs. Their therapists help clients develop communication and social skills.
-
ETTIE LEE YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES
Average Salary: $68,640
ETTIE LEE YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES offers good pay for Music Therapists. They work in California. This company helps children, teens, and families facing mental health issues. Music Therapists play a key role in their treatment programs.
-
AccentCare
Average Salary: $62,600
AccentCare provides home health and hospice care. They hire Music Therapists in multiple states. Their therapists work with patients to improve their quality of life. AccentCare believes in the healing power of music.
-
Carolina Outreach
Average Salary: $59,287
Carolina Outreach offers jobs for Music Therapists in North Carolina. They focus on mental health and substance abuse treatment. Their therapists work with patients to achieve better well-being. The company values each team member's skills.
-
Thom Child & Family Services
Average Salary: $56,389
Thom Child & Family Services hires Music Therapists in New York. They support children and families facing various challenges. Therapists work to improve communication and emotional skills through music.
-
Georgetown Hill Early School
Average Salary: $55,000
Georgetown Hill Early School offers jobs for Music Therapists in Washington, D.C. They focus on early childhood education and development. Music Therapists help young children learn and grow through music.
-
Meaningful Day Services
Average Salary: $54,500
Meaningful Day Services provides opportunities for Music Therapists in New York. They work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Therapists use music to help clients reach their goals.
-
Voices Together
Average Salary: $52,167
Voices Together offers jobs for Music Therapists in Massachusetts. They support children and adults with autism and other special needs. Their therapists use music to improve communication and social skills.
How to earn more as a Music Therapist?
Music therapists can enhance their earning potential by focusing on several key factors. Expanding knowledge and skills through advanced training and certifications often leads to higher job opportunities and pay. Specialization in areas such as pediatric music therapy, geriatric care, or trauma recovery can make a therapist more valuable in the job market. Gaining experience in various settings like hospitals, schools, and private practices provides a broader range of employment options. Networking with other professionals and joining organizations such as the American Music Therapy Association can open doors to new job opportunities and higher-paying positions.
Taking steps to improve professional standing can also increase a music therapist’s earnings. This includes publishing research, presenting at conferences, and contributing to professional journals. Building a strong portfolio that highlights successful sessions and client progress can make a therapist more attractive to potential employers. Engaging in continuous education and staying updated with the latest trends and techniques in music therapy ensures therapists remain competitive and capable of offering the best care possible. Pursuing leadership roles within music therapy settings or starting a private practice can lead to increased income.
Creating a diverse income stream can further boost earnings. This may involve offering workshops, online courses, or private sessions outside of a regular job. Collaborating with other healthcare providers and integrating music therapy into broader treatment plans can also lead to more job opportunities and higher pay. Marketing skills and the ability to demonstrate the effectiveness of music therapy can help therapists attract more clients and command higher fees.
- Advanced Training and Certifications
- Specialization
- Networking and Professional Organizations
- Continuous Education and Research
- Diverse Income Streams



