How much does a Music Therapist make?
Music therapists use music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. On average, a music therapist earns $70,554 each year. This salary can vary based on experience and location. Those new to the field might earn less, while experienced therapists can make more.
Many music therapists work in hospitals, schools, and community centers. They might also offer private sessions. The type of workplace can affect earnings. Therapists in certain states or cities might earn more due to the cost of living or demand for services. It's important for job seekers to research salaries in their area.
What are the highest paying cities for a Music Therapist?
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $102,087
In San Antonio, job seekers can find fulfilling opportunities in healthcare and wellness. The city’s renowned facilities, such as Baptist Health System, often seek professionals who use music to aid recovery and therapy. Working here means contributing to a vibrant community with a rich cultural scene.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $93,792
Syracuse offers a supportive environment for those in the healing arts. Local institutions, like Crouse Hospital, provide settings where music therapy makes a big difference. The city’s arts community adds to the enriching experience for those who use music to help others.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $93,708
Austin is a great place for those who want to blend their passion for music with professional growth. Major employers such as St. David’s HealthCare seek dedicated therapists. The city's energetic vibe and strong healthcare sector create a dynamic work environment.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $88,964
Houston's diverse population and large medical community present many options for therapists. Large employers, including The Menninger Clinic, offer paths for career advancement. The city’s cultural richness adds to the rewarding experience of working here.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $87,500
Miami's vibrant atmosphere and diverse community make it an exciting place for therapists. Employers like Jackson Health System provide opportunities in various settings. The city’s lively arts scene complements the work done in music therapy.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $82,886
Tampa offers a warm climate and a growing demand for music therapists. Organizations such as Tampa General Hospital provide excellent opportunities. The city's strong healthcare system and beautiful beaches make it a pleasant place to work and live.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $76,163
Colorado Springs provides a unique setting for those interested in the healing arts. Institutions like Penrose-St. Francis Health Services look for skilled therapists. The city’s outdoor lifestyle and clean environment enhance the quality of work and life balance.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $75,493
San Diego’s beautiful beaches and healthy lifestyle attract many professionals. Companies such as Rady Children’s Hospital offer opportunities for growth. The city’s arts and culture scene also provide a rich backdrop for those in music therapy.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $71,136
Buffalo has a strong healthcare sector with many opportunities for music therapists. Employers such as ECMC Group Health offer fulfilling positions. The city’s rich history and affordable living costs make it a great place to work and live.
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Fort Wayne, IN
Average Salary: $67,714
Fort Wayne offers a smaller city feel with many opportunities for those in the helping professions. Institutions like Parkview Regional Medical Center seek dedicated therapists. The city’s friendly atmosphere and lower cost of living add to the appeal.
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What are the best companies a Music Therapist can work for?
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Liberty Resources, Inc.
Average Salary: $98,813
Liberty Resources, Inc. offers rewarding opportunities for Music Therapists. They work in mental health and substance abuse treatment centers. Locations include Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and other areas.
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Southwestern Music Therapy
Average Salary: $94,655
Southwestern Music Therapy provides a supportive environment for Music Therapists. They focus on helping people with developmental disabilities. Services span multiple locations in Texas.
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Complete Therapies, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $92,115
At Complete Therapies, L.L.C., Music Therapists play a key role in patient care. They work in various settings including hospitals and rehabilitation centers. Their services cover Washington state and beyond.
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Benchmark Human Services
Average Salary: $80,708
Benchmark Human Services offers a chance for Music Therapists to make a difference. They provide services in mental health and addiction treatment. Locations include Illinois and Minnesota.
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The Stepping Stones Group
Average Salary: $76,583
The Stepping Stones Group employs Music Therapists in their centers for children and adults. They focus on special education and behavioral health. They operate in several states including California and New York.
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Cortica
Average Salary: $68,381
Cortica hires Music Therapists to work with children with autism and other developmental delays. They provide personalized care. Locations include Illinois and Florida.
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ETTIE LEE YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES
Average Salary: $68,293
ETTIE LEE YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES offers Music Therapists a chance to help youth and families. They provide mental health and substance abuse treatment. Locations include Maryland.
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AccentCare
Average Salary: $62,500
AccentCare employs Music Therapists in home health and hospice care. They aim to improve quality of life. Services span multiple states including Texas and California.
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Georgetown Hill Early School
Average Salary: $55,000
Georgetown Hill Early School offers Music Therapists a unique setting. They work with young children in a school environment. Their location is in Washington, D.C.
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Meaningful Day Services
Average Salary: $54,679
Meaningful Day Services provides opportunities for Music Therapists to help adults with developmental disabilities. They focus on community integration. Locations include New York and New Jersey.
How to earn more as a Music Therapist?
A career in music therapy offers rewarding opportunities for those passionate about both music and helping others. To maximize earnings in this field, consider the following strategies. Focusing on certain aspects of your professional development can lead to higher pay. This could include specializing in a niche area like working with children or elderly patients. Increasing your qualifications can also enhance your market value. For example, pursuing advanced degrees or certifications can make you more attractive to employers.
Networking plays a vital role in career growth. Building relationships with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying positions. Attend conferences, join professional organizations, and engage with peers online. These connections can lead to job opportunities that offer better compensation. Another factor is experience. Gaining more experience in different settings can make you a more versatile and valuable employee. Employers often pay more for therapists with a wide range of experience. Lastly, consider the location. Urban areas or places with a high demand for music therapists typically offer higher salaries. Research the job market in various regions to make informed decisions about where to work.
To boost your earnings, consider the following key factors:
- Specialize in a niche area
- Pursue advanced qualifications
- Network with other professionals
- Gain diverse experience
- Choose high-demand locations
