How much does a Recreation Assistant make?
Recreation Assistants play a vital role in helping others enjoy and benefit from recreational activities. These professionals work in various settings, such as parks, community centers, and schools. On average, a Recreation Assistant can expect to earn about $35,596 each year. This figure includes a range of salaries from lower-level positions to more experienced roles.
Salary data shows that about half of Recreation Assistants earn between $24,000 and $37,632 annually. This range provides a solid starting point for many in this field. Some may start at the lower end, with potential for growth as they gain experience. The top earners, making around $54,000 per year, typically have more experience or specialized skills. This career offers a rewarding path for those who love engaging with people and promoting healthy, active lifestyles.
What are the highest paying cities for a Recreation Assistant?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $58,932
Seattle offers diverse opportunities for Recreation Assistants. You'll find work with local parks and the city's famous landmarks. Companies like Seattle Public Parks host many events that need organization.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $48,075
Portland provides a vibrant environment for Recreation Assistants. You can expect to manage community activities and outdoor events. Parks departments and places like the Oregon Zoo offer engaging roles.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $44,833
In Denver, Recreation Assistants engage with many outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s parks and recreational centers rely on assistants to run diverse programs. You can find opportunities with the Denver Parks and Recreation.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $44,385
San Francisco is a great place for Recreation Assistants who enjoy a mix of urban and outdoor activities. You’ll work with various organizations, from the city’s parks to cultural events. Golden Gate Park offers numerous programs for you to coordinate.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $43,334
Albany provides a variety of opportunities for Recreation Assistants. You can manage community events and programs. The city's parks and historical sites need your skills to keep activities running smoothly.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $42,965
Rochester offers a peaceful environment for Recreation Assistants. You'll find work with local parks and community centers. Mayo Clinic and other health institutions also offer recreational programs.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $42,578
Bend is ideal for outdoor lovers. Recreation Assistants here manage hiking and skiing events. The city’s parks and the Cascade Lakes offer many opportunities for engagement.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $41,728
Washington, DC offers a unique blend of culture and recreation. You’ll coordinate events at various national parks and historical sites. The city’s diverse offerings create a dynamic work environment.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $40,808
Dallas provides a vibrant setting for Recreation Assistants. You can manage a variety of community events and outdoor activities. Companies like Dallas Parks and Recreation offer many programs to coordinate.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $40,482
Memphis offers diverse recreational opportunities. You can work with local parks and community centers. The city’s rich cultural heritage provides a unique backdrop for your work.
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What are the best companies a Recreation Assistant can work for?

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City of Seattle
Average Salary: $73,320
City of Seattle offers fulfilling Recreation Assistant jobs. This role involves managing recreational programs in various parks and facilities. Seattle is known for its vibrant neighborhoods and beautiful parks, offering a dynamic work environment.
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Loudoun County, VA
Average Salary: $57,710
Loudoun County, VA, offers competitive salaries for Recreation Assistants. These roles often include organizing activities and managing community centers. This county has a mix of urban and rural areas, providing diverse recreational opportunities.
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CITY OF SUNNY ISLES BEACH
Average Salary: $53,551
CITY OF SUNNY ISLES BEACH provides Recreation Assistant positions with a focus on beach and community activities. This role is ideal for those who enjoy working in a coastal environment. The city offers a range of recreational facilities along its sunny shores.
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City Of Renton
Average Salary: $52,059
City Of Renton offers rewarding Recreation Assistant jobs. Employees manage parks and community events, promoting healthy lifestyles. Renton is known for its vibrant community spirit and beautiful parks, making it an enjoyable place to work.
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Collier County, FL
Average Salary: $51,366
Collier County, FL, offers Recreation Assistant jobs with a focus on outdoor activities. This role involves managing parks and recreational facilities. The county is known for its scenic beauty and offers many opportunities for outdoor recreation.
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City of Scottsdale
Average Salary: $50,751
City of Scottsdale offers Recreation Assistant roles that focus on community engagement. This role involves planning and overseeing recreational programs. Scottsdale is known for its sunny climate and active community, providing a lively work environment.
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U.S. National Park Service
Average Salary: $50,565
U.S. National Park Service provides Recreation Assistant jobs with a focus on preserving and promoting natural areas. This role involves managing visitor activities and protecting park resources. Working in national parks offers unique and rewarding experiences.
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City of Buckeye
Average Salary: $50,064
City of Buckeye offers Recreation Assistant positions focused on community and park management. This role involves organizing events and maintaining recreational facilities. Buckeye provides a welcoming community atmosphere with many outdoor recreational opportunities.
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Target
Average Salary: $47,333
Target offers Recreation Assistant roles that focus on community engagement through retail. This role involves organizing events and activities for customers. Working at Target provides a dynamic work environment with opportunities for career growth.
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Era Living
Average Salary: $46,545
Era Living provides Recreation Assistant jobs focusing on enhancing community living. This role involves organizing activities and events for residents. Era Living emphasizes creating a vibrant and engaging living environment for its residents.
How to earn more as a Recreation Assistant?
Becoming a Recreation Assistant can lead to fulfilling work and the chance to earn a good income. Here are some ways to increase earnings in this role:
First, gaining experience in various recreational activities can make an assistant more valuable. Skills in sports, arts, and other activities help attract more participants. Specialization in a few areas can also lead to higher pay. Second, obtaining additional certifications, such as CPR or first aid, adds to an assistant's qualifications. Many employers value these certifications highly. Third, taking on leadership roles during events can open up paths to higher-paying positions. Managing teams and coordinating large events require more responsibility, which often comes with higher pay.
Fourth, networking with other professionals in the field can lead to job opportunities that pay better. Joining professional organizations and attending conferences help build a valuable network. Lastly, continually learning and improving skills keeps an assistant competitive in the job market. Keeping up with the latest trends and techniques ensures a Recreation Assistant can offer the best services and earn more.
These steps can help a Recreation Assistant advance in their career and earn a higher salary:
- Gain experience in various recreational activities.
- Obtain additional certifications like CPR and first aid.
- Take on leadership roles during events.
- Network with other professionals in the field.
- Continually learn and improve skills.



