How much does a Music Therapist make?
Music therapists use music to help people improve their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. This rewarding career offers a chance to make a real difference in people's lives. The average yearly salary for a music therapist is around $70,090. This means that most music therapists earn between $45,455 and $93,182 each year.
The salary can vary based on several factors. These include experience, location, and the type of facility where the therapist works. For example, those working in hospitals or schools may have different salary ranges compared to those in private practice or community centers. Music therapists with more experience often earn higher salaries. Also, therapists in larger cities or areas with a higher cost of living may earn more than those in smaller towns.
What are the highest paying cities for a Music Therapist?

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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $101,652
San Antonio offers a vibrant environment for music therapy professionals. With a strong community focus, therapists can work in hospitals, schools, and private practices. The city's diverse population allows for a wide range of therapeutic experiences.
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Syracuse, NY
Average Salary: $93,522
In Syracuse, music therapists find opportunities in both educational institutions and healthcare facilities. The city's commitment to the arts creates a supportive setting for those who use music to heal. Local organizations often collaborate, providing diverse work environments.
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Austin, TX
Average Salary: $92,621
Austin is known for its live music scene, making it an exciting place for music therapists. The city offers many opportunities in schools, clinics, and community centers. Therapists can engage with a creative and open-minded community.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $92,189
Houston provides a dynamic environment for music therapists. The city's large healthcare system and numerous schools offer diverse opportunities. Therapists can work with a wide range of patients, from children to the elderly.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $87,019
Miami's multicultural environment enriches the work of music therapists. The city's vibrant music scene offers unique opportunities to integrate cultural elements into therapy. Therapists can work in hospitals, schools, and community centers.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $78,154
Colorado Springs offers a scenic and healthy environment for music therapists. The city's focus on wellness and outdoor activities provides a unique backdrop for therapeutic work. Therapists can find opportunities in both urban and rural settings.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $72,618
San Diego's mild climate and strong community spirit make it an ideal place for music therapists. The city's numerous healthcare facilities and schools offer diverse opportunities. Therapists can engage with a health-conscious population.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $70,432
Buffalo provides a supportive environment for music therapists. The city's commitment to education and healthcare creates many opportunities. Therapists can work in schools, hospitals, and community centers, reaching a diverse population.
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St. Louis, MO
Average Salary: $66,279
St. Louis offers a mix of urban and suburban settings for music therapists. The city's strong healthcare system and educational institutions provide diverse opportunities. Therapists can work with a wide range of patients and communities.
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Fort Wayne, IN
Average Salary: $66,267
Fort Wayne provides a welcoming environment for music therapists. The city's focus on community and education creates many opportunities. Therapists can work in schools, clinics, and community centers, reaching a diverse population.
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What are the best companies a Music Therapist can work for?

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Jemcare
Average Salary: $100,000
Jemcare offers rewarding Music Therapist jobs with a focus on patient care. They operate in various locations, providing a supportive environment for therapists to grow.
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Liberty Resources, Inc.
Average Salary: $99,387
Liberty Resources, Inc. provides excellent opportunities for Music Therapists. They have multiple locations, ensuring diverse experiences for therapists.
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Southwestern Music Therapy
Average Salary: $94,737
Southwestern Music Therapy is known for offering competitive salaries. They operate in several locations, providing a rich environment for therapeutic work.
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Complete Therapies, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $92,115
At Complete Therapies, L.L.C., Music Therapists enjoy a supportive workplace. They serve various locations, offering diverse therapeutic experiences.
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Benchmark Human Services
Average Salary: $80,708
Benchmark Human Services provides a stable environment for Music Therapists. They operate in multiple locations, ensuring a variety of therapeutic settings.
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ETTIE LEE YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES
Average Salary: $68,185
ETTIE LEE YOUTH & FAMILY SERVICES offers meaningful work for Music Therapists. They serve various locations, providing a supportive community for therapists.
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Cortica
Average Salary: $67,488
Cortica provides a nurturing environment for Music Therapists. They operate in several locations, offering diverse opportunities for professional growth.
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AccentCare
Average Salary: $62,762
AccentCare offers a supportive workplace for Music Therapists. They serve various locations, providing a rich environment for therapeutic work.
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Georgetown Hill Early School
Average Salary: $55,000
Georgetown Hill Early School provides a nurturing environment for Music Therapists. They operate in several locations, offering a supportive community for therapists.
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Meaningful Day Services
Average Salary: $54,700
Meaningful Day Services offers rewarding opportunities for Music Therapists. They serve various locations, providing a supportive environment for professional growth.
How to earn more as a Music Therapist?
Music therapists have a unique and rewarding career. They use music to help people improve their mental, emotional, and physical health. To earn more in this field, consider these key factors. Each of these can help increase earning potential.
First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Therapists who work in the field for several years often see their salaries rise. Experience allows them to take on more responsibilities and work with a wider range of clients. Second, obtaining advanced degrees or certifications can also boost earnings. Specializing in areas like pediatric music therapy or neuromusicology can make a therapist more valuable to employers. Third, working in high-demand areas can lead to higher pay. Urban areas or regions with fewer therapists often offer better salaries. Fourth, building a strong professional network can open up more job opportunities. Networking with other professionals can lead to referrals and higher-paying positions. Finally, starting a private practice can significantly increase income. Therapists who run their own businesses can set their own rates and work with clients who are willing to pay more for personalized services.
By focusing on these factors, music therapists can work towards earning more in their careers.
- Gain more experience
- Obtain advanced degrees or certifications
- Work in high-demand areas
- Build a strong professional network
- Start a private practice



