Recreational Therapist Salary (2025)
Recreational therapists use activities to help patients recover.
The median Recreational Therapist salary is $50,000 per year ($24/hour). Entry-level Recreational Therapists earn around $35,000 while experienced Recreational Therapists earn $72,000 or more annually.
Salary Range
Median: $50,000 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Recreational Therapists
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $71,000 | +42% |
| California | $69,000 | +38% |
| New York | $64,000 | +28% |
| Alaska | $63,000 | +26% |
| Massachusetts | $63,000 | +26% |
| New Jersey | $60,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $59,000 | +18% |
| Washington | $57,000 | +14% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Recreational Therapist
Most Recreational Therapist positions require: Bachelor's in Recreational Therapy. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Recreational Therapist Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Recreational Therapist salary?
The median Recreational Therapist salary is $50,000 per year, which works out to approximately $24/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Recreational Therapist make?
Entry-level Recreational Therapists typically earn around $35,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Recreational Therapist's salary?
Experienced Recreational Therapists can earn up to $72,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Recreational Therapist?
Most Recreational Therapist positions require: Bachelor's in Recreational Therapy.