How much does a Recreational Therapist make?
Recreational therapists help people recover and improve their health through fun activities. Their work makes a big difference in people's lives. Knowing how much they can earn is important for those considering this job. The average yearly salary for recreational therapists is around $82,759. This is a good amount of money for those in this field.
Different levels of experience lead to different salaries. Therapists with less experience might make less, around $37,330 a year. Those with more experience can make more, up to about $142,000 a year. These numbers show that there is a lot of room to grow in this job. People who keep learning and getting better at their work can earn more over time. Also, where a therapist works can affect their salary. Some areas pay more than others, so choosing the right place to work can be important.
What are the highest paying cities for a Recreational Therapist?
-
Stockton, CA
Average Salary: $128,370
In Stockton, you can help people improve their well-being through activities. Many local hospitals offer therapy programs. Top employers include Kaiser Permanente and Adventist Health.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Stockton, CA
-
Miami, FL
Average Salary: $115,496
Miami has a vibrant community that thrives on wellness. Many organizations focus on diverse recreational activities. Bright Side Initiatives and Jewish Family Service are great places to work.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Miami, FL
-
Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $113,878
Bakersfield offers a range of opportunities to assist those in need. Facilities like Kern Medical Center often seek skilled therapists. Positions are available to improve patients’ quality of life.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Bakersfield, CA
-
Houston, TX
Average Salary: $111,050
Houston is a city with endless possibilities for a therapist. Many facilities value creative approaches to therapy. Memorial Hermann and Baylor Scott & White Health are notable employers.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Houston, TX
-
Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $109,890
Los Angeles provides a unique environment for recreational therapy. The city’s diverse population benefits from tailored activities. Centers like UCLA Health and Cedars-Sinai often seek qualified therapists.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
-
Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $108,291
In Dallas, you can make a difference by engaging patients in meaningful activities. Many hospitals and rehabilitation centers look for skilled therapists. Top employers include Baylor Scott & White Health and UT Southwestern.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Dallas, TX
-
Jackson, MS
Average Salary: $107,284
Jackson offers a supportive community for those interested in therapeutic work. Local health facilities value creative recreational strategies. St. Dominic’s Hospital and Galter Health are key employers.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Jackson, MS
-
Virginia Beach, VA
Average Salary: $105,033
Virginia Beach provides a welcoming environment for therapists. Many local clinics and hospitals offer diverse opportunities. Top employers include Sentara Healthcare and Riverside Health System.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Virginia Beach, VA
-
Fresno, CA
Average Salary: $101,033
Fresno has a strong need for recreational therapists. Many health facilities value their work. Local employers include Community Regional Medical Center and Kaweah Delta Health Care District.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in Fresno, CA
-
San Antonio, TX
Average Salary: $100,610
San Antonio offers many chances to help people through activities. Many local organizations value a therapist’s input. Top employers include University Health System and Methodist Healthcare Ministries.
Find Recreational Therapist jobs in San Antonio, TX
What are the best companies a Recreational Therapist can work for?
-
Alliant Personnel Resources
Average Salary: $124,000
Alliant Personnel Resources offers competitive salaries for Recreational Therapist jobs. They operate in various locations and focus on providing quality care services. Job seekers can expect a supportive environment with opportunities for growth.
-
Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc.
Average Salary: $121,352
Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc. provides top-notch compensation for Recreational Therapist positions. The company operates nationwide, offering diverse work settings. Employees enjoy a dynamic work atmosphere with strong career advancement prospects.
-
Complete Therapies, L.L.C.
Average Salary: $93,889
Complete Therapies, L.L.C. pays well for Recreational Therapist roles. They have multiple locations across the country. This company emphasizes teamwork and offers ample opportunities for professional development.
-
Collage Rehabilitation Partners
Average Salary: $89,081
Collage Rehabilitation Partners offers a solid salary for Recreational Therapists. They serve several states and provide a nurturing work environment. Employees benefit from collaborative teamwork and a commitment to quality care.
-
Rehab Without Walls
Average Salary: $87,928
Rehab Without Walls pays well for Recreational Therapists. They operate in multiple locations and focus on innovative care solutions. Job seekers can expect a flexible work schedule and a supportive team culture.
-
University of Maryland Medical System
Average Salary: $68,949
The University of Maryland Medical System offers a good salary for Recreational Therapists. They provide services in various locations, focusing on comprehensive patient care. Employees enjoy a collaborative work environment and access to numerous learning opportunities.
-
North Spring Behavioral Healthcare
Average Salary: $68,487
North Spring Behavioral Healthcare offers competitive compensation for Recreational Therapists. They serve different regions and emphasize patient-centered care. Job seekers will find a team-oriented culture with career growth potential.
-
Fairfax Behavioral Health
Average Salary: $68,060
Fairfax Behavioral Health pays well for Recreational Therapists. They operate in several locations and prioritize patient well-being. Employees benefit from a supportive environment and diverse work experiences.
-
New York State Office of Mental Health
Average Salary: $65,979
The New York State Office of Mental Health offers a respectable salary for Recreational Therapists. They provide services across New York State, focusing on mental health care. Job seekers can expect a stable work environment and meaningful contributions to patient care.
-
Liberty Healthcare Corporation
Average Salary: $63,992
Liberty Healthcare Corporation pays well for Recreational Therapists. They serve various locations and emphasize quality care. Employees enjoy a collaborative work setting and opportunities for professional development.
How to earn more as a Recreational Therapist?
Becoming a Recreational Therapist can be a rewarding career. Job seekers interested in this field should know there are ways to earn more. By focusing on certain key factors, therapists can improve their earnings. One way to boost income is by gaining additional certifications. This can make a therapist more attractive to employers.
Another important factor involves finding the right work environment. Hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and private practices often offer different salary levels. Working in areas with higher demand for recreational therapy can lead to higher pay. Recreational therapists who seek out management positions also tend to earn more. Leadership roles often come with higher salaries. Networking with other professionals can open doors to higher-paying job opportunities. Finally, continued education and experience increase earning potential. As therapists grow their skills, they can command higher salaries.
Here are five factors that can help a Recreational Therapist earn more:
- Obtain additional certifications.
- Choose the right work environment.
- Pursue leadership positions.
- Network with other professionals.
- Pursue continued education and experience.
