How much does a Recreational Therapist make?
A recreational therapist helps people improve their health and well-being. These therapists use activities like games, sports, and art to help patients. They work with people of all ages, from children to the elderly. Recreational therapists can find work in many places, such as hospitals, schools, and community centers.
The salary for a recreational therapist can vary. The average yearly salary is about $77,947. Some therapists make less, while others make more. The pay often depends on things like experience, location, and the type of employer. For instance, those working in big cities might earn more than those in smaller towns. Those with more experience usually earn higher salaries. The lowest-paid therapists earn around $35,400 per year, while the highest-paid can make over $145,600.
What are the highest paying cities for a Recreational Therapist?

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Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $126,981
In Stockton, a Recreational Therapist can find fulfilling work in facilities such as Kaiser Permanente. The city offers a mix of urban and rural settings, allowing for diverse therapeutic activities. Stockton provides a supportive environment for professionals aiming to enhance patients' well-being.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $123,226
Miami offers a vibrant landscape for recreational therapists. With top employers like Baptist Health, professionals have access to cutting-edge facilities and diverse populations. The city’s energetic atmosphere makes it ideal for interactive and engaging therapy sessions.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $121,168
Bakersfield presents opportunities for Recreational Therapists to work in institutions like Adventist Health. The city's growing population offers a steady demand for therapeutic services. Bakersfield provides a welcoming environment with a strong community focus on health and wellness.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $116,699
Memphis boasts a rich cultural scene that benefits recreational therapy. Employers such as St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital provide meaningful work. The city’s diverse community and historical landmarks create a unique backdrop for therapy activities.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $112,352
Houston offers a bustling environment for recreational therapy. Companies like Houston Methodist offer diverse opportunities. The city’s large population and varied recreational options create a dynamic setting for professionals to thrive.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $111,050
Los Angeles provides numerous avenues for recreational therapists to make an impact. Employers like Cedars-Sinai Medical Center offer extensive resources. The city’s diverse culture and numerous outdoor activities enrich therapeutic experiences.
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Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $110,392
Fresno’s healthcare sector offers rewarding opportunities for recreational therapists. Organizations such as Community Regional Medical Center provide varied roles. The city’s strong community ties and agricultural backdrop offer unique therapy settings.
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Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $109,233
Virginia Beach offers a coastal charm that enhances recreational therapy. Employers like Sentara Healthcare provide excellent facilities. The city’s beautiful beaches and recreational areas create an ideal environment for therapeutic activities.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $106,110
Dallas provides a dynamic environment for recreational therapists. Companies such as UT Southwestern offer advanced opportunities. The city’s vibrant culture and numerous parks make it perfect for engaging therapy sessions.
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San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $104,199
San Antonio offers a unique blend of culture and community for recreational therapists. Institutions like University Health System provide robust support. The city’s rich history and outdoor spaces create diverse therapy opportunities.
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What are the best companies a Recreational Therapist can work for?

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Legacy Personnel Inc
Average Salary: $134,188
Legacy Personnel Inc offers Recreational Therapist jobs with a competitive salary. They focus on connecting skilled professionals with top healthcare facilities. Locations include major cities across the United States.
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Alliant Personnel Resources
Average Salary: $124,000
Alliant Personnel Resources provides a solid salary for Recreational Therapists. They have a strong reputation for placing professionals in various healthcare settings. Their offices are located in key states across the country.
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Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Average Salary: $121,530
Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc. pays generously to Recreational Therapists. They emphasize well-being and support their staff. Their locations span multiple states, offering diverse opportunities.
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California Correctional Health Care Services
Average Salary: $115,179
California Correctional Health Care Services offers a competitive salary for Recreational Therapists. They focus on rehabilitation in correctional facilities. They operate in several locations throughout California.
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Complete Therapies, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $91,250
Complete Therapies, L.L.C. provides good compensation for Recreational Therapists. They are committed to patient care in various settings. Their services are available in several states.
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Collage Rehabilitation Partners
Average Salary: $90,172
Collage Rehabilitation Partners offers fair salaries for Recreational Therapists. They aim to deliver quality care in rehabilitation centers. Their facilities are located in key regions across the United States.
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Rehab Without Walls
Average Salary: $85,428
Rehab Without Walls provides a solid salary for Recreational Therapists. They focus on innovative rehabilitation methods. They serve multiple locations, ensuring diverse career options.
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Crestwood Behavioral Health
Average Salary: $83,470
Crestwood Behavioral Health offers competitive pay for Recreational Therapists. They provide care in behavioral health facilities. Their locations are spread across several states.
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North Spring Behavioral Healthcare
Average Salary: $70,000
North Spring Behavioral Healthcare offers decent salaries for Recreational Therapists. They focus on mental health and wellness. Their facilities are located in multiple states.
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University of Maryland Medical System
Average Salary: $68,995
University of Maryland Medical System provides fair salaries for Recreational Therapists. They emphasize comprehensive care. Their locations include several hospitals and clinics.
How to earn more as a Recreational Therapist?
A Recreational Therapist aims to help people with illnesses, injuries, or disabilities through activities that improve their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Earning more in this rewarding career involves several key strategies. One important step is to gain more experience and certifications. Employers often pay higher salaries to those who have more knowledge and skills.
Another key factor is to specialize in a high-demand area. Recreational Therapists who focus on areas like mental health, geriatric care, or pediatric therapy may find more job opportunities and higher pay. Expanding skills to include new therapeutic activities or techniques can also lead to higher earnings. Networking within the industry and seeking out employers who value experience can open doors to better-paying positions. Continuing education and staying updated on the latest trends can make a Recreational Therapist more attractive to potential employers, leading to better job offers.
Consider the following factors to earn more as a Recreational Therapist:
- Gain more experience and certifications.
- Specialize in high-demand areas like mental health or geriatric care.
- Expand skills to include new therapeutic activities or techniques.
- Network within the industry to find better job opportunities.
- Continue education to stay updated on the latest trends.



