Summary

Quick Facts: Recreational Therapists | |
---|---|
$47,940 per year
$23.05 per hour |
|
Bachelor's degree | |
None | |
None | |
20,800 | |
10% (As fast as average) | |
2,200 |
What Recreational Therapists Do
Recreational therapists plan, direct, and coordinate recreation-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses.
Work Environment
Recreational therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, and government parks and recreation departments. Most therapists work full time.
How to Become a Recreational Therapist
Recreational therapists typically need a bachelor’s degree. Many employers require therapists to be certified.
Pay
The median annual wage for recreational therapists was $47,940 in May 2021.
Job Outlook
Employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 10 percent from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
About 1,900 openings for recreational therapists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
State & Area Data
Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for recreational therapists.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of recreational therapists with similar occupations.
More Information, Including Links to O*NET
Learn more about recreational therapists by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.