How much does a Rehabilitation Specialist make?
A Rehabilitation Specialist plays a vital role in helping people recover from injuries and illnesses. This rewarding job comes with a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for a Rehabilitation Specialist is around $54,940. This figure represents a balance across different experience levels and regions. It means someone new to the field can expect to earn closer to the lower end, while experienced specialists can see higher pay.
The salary for Rehabilitation Specialists can vary widely. At the entry level, earnings may start around $33,000. As professionals gain experience and expertise, salaries increase. For those in the middle of their career, salaries can range from $53,000 to $66,000. Top-tier specialists, often with advanced degrees or specialized certifications, can earn over $99,000. This range allows for growth and advancement within the field, making it an attractive career choice.
What are the highest paying cities for a Rehabilitation Specialist?

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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $82,705
In Denver, working as a specialist involves helping patients with a variety of physical conditions. Many healthcare facilities, including The Denver Center for Rehabilitation, offer rewarding opportunities. The city’s diverse patient population provides rich, varied experiences.
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Rockford, IL
Average Salary: $75,435
Rockford offers a tight-knit community where specialists make a real difference in people's lives. Hospitals like Rockford Health System provide excellent resources and support. Working here means collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals to achieve the best patient outcomes.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $71,292
In Boston, specialists often find themselves working with top medical institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital. The city’s prestigious reputation means a higher demand for skilled professionals. Here, you can expect both a challenging and fulfilling career.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $71,281
Seattle’s healthcare system offers numerous opportunities for specialists at facilities like Seattle Children’s Hospital. The city’s strong emphasis on wellness aligns well with the goals of rehabilitation professionals. Working in Seattle means contributing to innovative healthcare practices.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $70,850
Albany provides a mix of urban and rural experiences, with major healthcare facilities like the Albany Medical Center. This city is home to a supportive community that values health and rehabilitation. Working here offers a balanced work environment with plenty of professional growth.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $70,478
In Des Moines, specialists can expect a welcoming community with excellent healthcare providers such as MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center. This city offers a mix of urban and rural settings, making it an ideal place to work and live. The patient-centered approach here aligns well with the rehabilitation field.
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Spokane, WA
Average Salary: $69,959
Spokane is known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant community. Specialists can find rewarding work at facilities like the Rehabilitation Institute of Washington. The city’s natural beauty provides a serene backdrop for a fulfilling career in rehabilitation.
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Providence, RI
Average Salary: $69,594
Providence offers a mix of historical charm and modern healthcare opportunities. Specialists can find fulfilling work at institutions like Rhode Island Hospital. The city’s rich cultural heritage adds to the diverse experiences in this career.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $67,845
Columbus is a bustling city with a variety of healthcare facilities, including OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital. Working here offers dynamic experiences and strong support systems. The city’s growing population provides ample opportunities for specialists.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $67,003
In Santa Rosa, specialists have the chance to work in a picturesque setting at hospitals like Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital. The city’s focus on health and wellness aligns well with rehabilitation goals. Working here means being part of a community that values health and care.
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What are the best companies a Rehabilitation Specialist can work for?

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Zeel
Average Salary: $165,000
Zeel offers top-notch positions for Rehabilitation Specialists. They focus on innovative rehabilitation methods. Zeel operates in multiple locations across the United States.
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Kaiser Permanente
Average Salary: $107,156
Kaiser Permanente provides rewarding career opportunities for Rehabilitation Specialists. They prioritize patient care and support. Their services span various states in the U.S.
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OPWDD - Office for People with Developmental Disabilities
Average Salary: $79,542
The OPWDD offers dynamic roles for Rehabilitation Specialists. They work to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Their offices are located throughout New York State.
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State of New York
Average Salary: $78,082
The State of New York provides numerous opportunities for Rehabilitation Specialists. They focus on public health and rehabilitation services. The state has many offices and facilities across New York.
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New York State Office of Mental Health
Average Salary: $77,412
This office offers competitive salaries for Rehabilitation Specialists. They aim to provide mental health services. Their locations are spread throughout New York State.
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Commonwealth of Massachusetts
Average Salary: $76,712
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers rewarding jobs for Rehabilitation Specialists. They focus on comprehensive rehabilitation services. Their offices are located in various cities across Massachusetts.
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DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION
Average Salary: $76,594
The DEPARTMENT OF REHABILITATION provides excellent opportunities for Rehabilitation Specialists. They work on rehabilitation programs for individuals with disabilities. They have offices in several states.
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LifePoint Health
Average Salary: $76,505
LifePoint Health offers diverse roles for Rehabilitation Specialists. They focus on providing quality healthcare services. Their facilities are located in multiple states.
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State of Colorado
Average Salary: $72,854
The State of Colorado provides valuable opportunities for Rehabilitation Specialists. They focus on public health and rehabilitation. Their offices are located throughout Colorado.
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Momentum for Health
Average Salary: $71,914
Momentum for Health offers fulfilling positions for Rehabilitation Specialists. They aim to provide mental health and rehabilitation services. Their locations are in various cities in California.
How to earn more as a Rehabilitation Specialist?
Becoming a Rehabilitation Specialist offers rewarding work helping people regain their independence and improve their quality of life. To maximize earnings in this profession, certain strategies can be very effective. One key approach involves gaining specialized certifications. For instance, becoming certified in areas like pediatric rehabilitation, sports rehabilitation, or neurological rehabilitation can make a specialist more valuable to employers and lead to higher pay.
Networking and professional development are also crucial. Attending workshops, conferences, and seminars can open doors to new job opportunities and connections with industry leaders. Continuing education keeps skills sharp and knowledge current, both of which can lead to better job prospects and higher salaries. Building a strong professional reputation through quality work and positive client outcomes enhances career advancement. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals can also lead to referrals and job opportunities that pay more. Finally, choosing to work in higher-demand areas or regions can significantly boost earning potential. Each of these factors plays a part in increasing the income of a Rehabilitation Specialist.
Here are some factors to consider for earning more:
- Gain specialized certifications.
- Network and engage in professional development.
- Build a strong professional reputation.
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals.
- Choose high-demand locations.



