Recreational therapists Salary in the United States
Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.
The median salary for Recreational therapists in the United States is $61,960 per year — about $30 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $50,240 and $79,930 a year.
Salary range
Top US metros for Recreational therapists
| Metro | Local salary |
|---|---|
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | $115,330 |
| Vallejo, CA | $115,330 |
| Napa, CA | $107,810 |
| Fresno, CA | $98,160 |
| Mankato, MN | $81,950 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | $98,120 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | $101,670 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, CA | $98,530 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont, CA | $102,420 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA | $91,790 |
Frequently asked questions
How much do Recreational therapists make in the US?
The median salary is $61,960 per year (about $30 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $50,240 and $79,930 a year.
How much do Recreational therapists make per hour?
About $30 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $61,960 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).
What education do you need to work as Recreational therapists?
Typical entry-level education: Bachelor's degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?
No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.
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