How much does a Music Therapist make?
Music therapy is a growing field, and it offers rewarding careers for those passionate about the intersection of music and health. The average yearly salary for a music therapist stands at $70,419. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and specific job settings.
Many factors influence salary. For instance, therapists with more years of experience often earn more. Those working in urban areas or with specialized training may also see higher earnings. The lowest 10 percent of earners make less than $34,067, while the top 10 percent earn over $140,000 annually. This range provides a clear picture of potential earnings and highlights the benefits of gaining experience and additional qualifications.
What are the highest paying cities for a Music Therapist?

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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $102,789
San Antonio offers a vibrant community for those in music therapy. With leading health facilities like University Health System, therapists can find diverse opportunities. The city's rich cultural scene provides a stimulating environment for creative therapy approaches.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $95,555
Austin thrives on creativity, making it an ideal place for music therapists. Companies like Dell Medical School offer excellent opportunities. The city's lively music scene enriches the therapeutic experience, offering varied venues for sessions.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $94,862
In Syracuse, music therapists work in a supportive community. Hospitals like St. Joseph's Hospital Health Center provide diverse opportunities. The city's strong educational institutions create a collaborative environment for professionals.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $92,446
Sacramento's healthcare sector presents many options for music therapists. Organizations such as Kaiser Permanente offer promising career paths. The city's community spirit enhances the impact of therapeutic music sessions.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $86,500
Denver's diverse population makes it a dynamic place for music therapists. Institutions like Children's Hospital Colorado offer excellent job prospects. The city's outdoor lifestyle provides unique settings for music-based activities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $84,076
Houston's healthcare industry is vast, offering many roles for music therapists. Organizations such as Houston Methodist provide notable opportunities. The city's cultural diversity adds richness to therapeutic practices.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $79,981
Miami's vibrant atmosphere benefits music therapists. Facilities like Jackson Health System offer excellent positions. The city's lively music culture enhances the effectiveness of therapy sessions.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $78,481
Tampa's growing healthcare sector provides good prospects for music therapists. Institutions such as Tampa General Hospital offer diverse opportunities. The city's family-friendly environment makes it a great place to work.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $77,469
Washington, DC, offers a professional setting for music therapists. Hospitals like Children's National Medical Center provide excellent job opportunities. The city's cultural richness adds depth to therapeutic approaches.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $77,456
San Diego's health industry is strong, offering many roles for music therapists. Companies like Sharp HealthCare provide notable opportunities. The city's beautiful beaches offer unique settings for music therapy sessions.
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What are the best companies a Music Therapist can work for?

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Liberty Resources, Inc.
Average Salary: $91,640
Liberty Resources, Inc. offers rewarding Music Therapist jobs with a strong focus on community health. They serve areas in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, providing impactful therapeutic services in these regions.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $73,500
The Stepping Stones Group provides diverse opportunities for Music Therapists. They operate in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York, offering extensive growth and development in music therapy.
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AccentCare
Average Salary: $62,156
AccentCare offers promising roles for Music Therapists with competitive salaries. They provide home care across multiple states, allowing therapists to make a significant impact on patient care.
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Carolina Outreach
Average Salary: $60,953
Carolina Outreach provides Music Therapist jobs with opportunities to make a difference. Their services are primarily in North Carolina and South Carolina, where they deliver exceptional therapeutic care.
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Thom Child & Family Services
Average Salary: $57,091
Thom Child & Family Services focuses on therapeutic roles for Music Therapists. They operate in California and are dedicated to supporting children and families with their expert care.
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Meaningful Day Services
Average Salary: $55,000
Meaningful Day Services offers rewarding positions for Music Therapists. They serve clients in Illinois, providing valuable therapeutic support and growth opportunities in the field.
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Voices Together
Average Salary: $52,000
Voices Together provides Music Therapist jobs with a focus on community engagement. They operate in Texas, offering a supportive environment for therapeutic practice.
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St. Croix Hospice
Average Salary: $50,586
St. Croix Hospice offers Music Therapist roles with a focus on compassionate care. They serve in Wisconsin and Minnesota, providing vital services to patients in need.
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NEW YORK EDGE, INC
Average Salary: $45,000
NEW YORK EDGE, INC. provides Music Therapist positions that emphasize patient care and well-being. They operate in New York City, offering a dynamic environment for professional growth.
How to earn more as a Music Therapist?
Music therapists often find rewarding careers helping others through music. To earn more in this field, consider these key factors. Each plays a role in increasing earning potential and job satisfaction. By focusing on these elements, music therapists can enhance their market value and income.
Firstly, gaining more experience increases earning potential. Therapists who work in the field longer usually have more skills and a better understanding of different patient needs. Experienced therapists can often negotiate higher salaries. Secondly, getting additional certifications can help. Specializing in areas like pediatric music therapy or geriatric music therapy can open up more job opportunities. These certifications often come with higher pay. Thirdly, expanding one’s client base helps. Building a reputation and attracting more clients can lead to more income. This might involve networking with other healthcare professionals or marketing oneself effectively.
Other important factors include pursuing advanced degrees and engaging in continuous education. Advanced degrees, such as a master’s or doctorate, often lead to higher-paying positions. Staying updated with the latest trends and techniques in music therapy through workshops and seminars can also boost earning potential. Lastly, considering various work settings can make a difference. Working in high-demand areas like hospitals, private practices, or schools can offer higher salaries compared to community centers or non-profit organizations. Exploring these options can help therapists find the best financial fit for their skills and interests.
Here are some ways to earn more as a music therapist:
- Gain more experience
- Get additional certifications
- Expand your client base
- Pursue advanced degrees
- Consider various work settings



