How much does a Recreation Assistant make?
A Recreation Assistant works to plan and lead activities that promote health and wellness. People in this role can expect an average yearly salary of about $35,584. This salary varies based on many factors, such as experience and location. Many Recreation Assistants start at the lower end of this range. As they gain experience and skills, they can move up to higher pay grades.
Here are some common salary brackets for Recreation Assistants, according to our data:
- 24% earn between $24,000 and $29,353.
- 24.7% earn between $29,353 and $32,029.
- 18.75% earn between $32,029 and $34,705.
- 16.15% earn between $34,705 and $37,382.
- 14.13% earn between $37,382 and $40,058.
- 6.66% earn between $40,058 and $42,735.
- 5.28% earn between $42,735 and $45,411.
- 3.06% earn between $45,411 and $48,087.
- 1.99% earn between $48,087 and $50,764.
- 1.05% earn over $50,764.
What are the highest paying cities for a Recreation Assistant?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $57,429
In Seattle, you can find Recreation Assistant positions in various parks and community centers. Companies like the City of Seattle Parks and Recreation offer many opportunities. The city values its outdoor lifestyle and provides a vibrant environment for recreation roles.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $46,668
Portland offers roles for Recreation Assistants in numerous public parks and recreation centers. Companies like the City of Portland Parks & Recreation hire for these positions. This city’s focus on community and outdoor activities makes it a great place for recreation careers.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $44,876
Denver provides several opportunities for Recreation Assistants in its many parks and recreational centers. The City of Denver Parks and Recreation Department often hires for these roles. The city’s love for outdoor activities creates a dynamic work environment.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $44,385
In San Francisco, Recreation Assistants can work in parks and community centers. The Recreation and Park Department hires for these positions. The city's diverse culture and focus on outdoor recreation make it an exciting place to work.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $43,466
Albany offers Recreation Assistant roles in various parks and recreation centers. The City of Albany's Parks, Recreation & Facilities often hires for these jobs. This city’s commitment to community activities provides a fulfilling work environment.
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Bend, OR
Average Salary: $42,420
Bend provides opportunities for Recreation Assistants in its parks and recreational facilities. The City of Bend Parks and Recreation hires for these positions. This city’s beautiful outdoor scenery creates an ideal setting for recreation careers.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $41,701
In Washington, DC, Recreation Assistants can work in various parks and recreational centers. The Department of Parks and Recreation often hires for these positions. The city’s rich history and diverse population offer a unique work experience.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $40,979
Dallas offers several Recreation Assistant positions in parks and community centers. Companies like the City of Dallas Parks and Recreation hire for these roles. The city’s vibrant culture and outdoor activities make it a great place for recreation careers.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $40,752
Colorado Springs provides opportunities for Recreation Assistants in its parks and recreational centers. The City of Colorado Springs Parks, Recreation & Cultural Services often hires for these positions. The city’s natural beauty and outdoor focus create an enriching work environment.
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Green Bay, WI
Average Salary: $40,314
Green Bay offers Recreation Assistant roles in various parks and community centers. The City of Green Bay Parks, Recreation & Forestry often hires for these positions. This city’s commitment to community activities and outdoor recreation provides a rewarding work experience.
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What are the best companies a Recreation Assistant can work for?

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CITY OF SUNNY ISLES BEACH
Average Salary: $52,742
The CITY OF SUNNY ISLES BEACH offers rewarding positions for Recreation Assistants. They focus on maintaining and enhancing recreational facilities in the city. This includes parks and beaches, ensuring residents and visitors have a fun, safe environment.
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City of Buckeye
Average Salary: $51,401
The City of Buckeye hires Recreation Assistants to support programs and events across the city. Their goal is to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle for all community members. Locations include various parks and community centers in Buckeye.
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City of Scottsdale
Average Salary: $50,808
The City of Scottsdale offers exciting Recreation Assistant roles. They aim to create and manage recreational programs and events. The city operates in several locations, including public parks and community centers in Scottsdale.
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Collier County, FL
Average Salary: $50,211
Collier County, FL, provides good opportunities for Recreation Assistants. They work on maintaining and enhancing recreational spaces for residents. The county runs programs and events in various locations throughout Collier County.
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Loudoun County, VA
Average Salary: $49,826
Loudoun County, VA, seeks Recreation Assistants to support community recreational programs. They focus on offering quality recreational activities. The county operates in many parks and recreational areas throughout Loudoun County.
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U.S. National Park Service
Average Salary: $47,870
The U.S. National Park Service offers exciting roles for Recreation Assistants. They aim to manage and protect natural and historical resources. The service operates in numerous national parks across the United States.
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Target
Average Salary: $46,996
Target has positions for Recreation Assistants who support community events. They work to enhance the shopping experience through recreational activities. Stores are located in many cities across the country.
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Era Living
Average Salary: $45,692
Era Living provides opportunities for Recreation Assistants in their communities. They focus on offering recreational programs and activities. Era Living operates in several locations, including urban and suburban areas.
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City of Alexandria, VA
Average Salary: $45,515
The City of Alexandria, VA, offers roles for Recreation Assistants. They work to create and manage recreational programs. The city runs programs in various parks and community centers throughout Alexandria.
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City of Sunrise
Average Salary: $45,053
The City of Sunrise provides positions for Recreation Assistants. They focus on maintaining and enhancing recreational facilities. The city operates in several parks and community centers in Sunrise.
How to earn more as a Recreation Assistant?
Increasing your earnings as a Recreation Assistant involves a combination of skill development, experience, and strategic moves. One effective way to boost income is by gaining certifications in specialized areas such as first aid, CPR, or lifeguarding. These credentials make you more valuable to employers and can lead to higher-paying positions.
Networking also plays a crucial role. Building relationships with colleagues, supervisors, and other industry professionals can lead to opportunities for advancement. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and staying active on social media platforms can help create these connections. Taking on additional responsibilities and demonstrating a strong work ethic can impress employers and open the door to higher-paying roles.
Consider the following strategies to enhance earnings:
- Obtain specialized certifications: Get trained in first aid, CPR, or lifeguarding to become more valuable.
- Expand your network: Connect with peers and professionals to discover new opportunities.
- Seek additional responsibilities: Volunteer for extra tasks to show your dedication and reliability.
- Pursue further education: Consider taking courses related to recreation or leisure studies.
- Gain experience in different settings: Work in various environments to build a diverse skill set.



