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Average Recreational Therapists Salary in Texas

Recreational Therapists in Texas earn an impressive average annual salary of $81,870, significantly surpassing the national average of $60,230. This elevated compensation is often driven by a combination of factors unique to the Texas market, including demand for specialized therapeutic services and the state's economic landscape.

Executive Summary

  • Average Salary: $81,870 per year.
  • Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 90.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
  • Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $203,440.
  • Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,030 Recreational Therapists, Texas demonstrates a notable presence in this field. The location quotient of 0.76 suggests that while the concentration is slightly below the national average, the absolute number of professionals indicates a substantial and active job market within the state.
2024 Market Data

Salary Overview

$81,870

The average Recreational Therapists in Texas earns+35.9%above the national average.

BreakdownBased on 40h/week
Hourly

$39.4

Weekly

$1,574

Monthly

$6,823

Recreational Therapists Salary Distribution in Texas

Career progression for Recreational Therapists in Texas typically involves a significant salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries in the upper percentiles, reflecting a clear path for career advancement and increased earning potential.

Experience LevelMarket PercentileAnnual WageHourly Rate
Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience.10% (Entry)$33,540$16.1
Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures.25% (Junior)$61,403$29.5
Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification.50% (Median)$54,190$26.1
SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases.75% (Senior)$102,338$49.2
Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider.90% (Expert)$203,440$97.8

Detailed Recreational Therapists Market Analysis

Relocation Context

Nominal Salary

$81,870

Gross Pay

Real Wage (Purchasing Power)

$88,032

Adjusted for COL (93)

The average annual salary of $81,870 in Texas presents a strong financial standing, especially when considering the state's Cost of Living Index of 93. This index, being below the national average of 100, indicates that the purchasing power of a Recreational Therapist's salary in Texas is likely higher than in many other parts of the country, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle.

Job Market Context

1,030

Total Jobs

0.074

Per 1K Jobs

0.76

Location Quotient

Below Average

Texas has 0.76x the national average concentration of Recreational Therapists jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.

A Location Quotient of 0.76 for Recreational Therapists in Texas signifies that the profession is slightly less concentrated than the national average. This suggests that while the demand exists, the market may not be oversaturated, potentially offering a competitive environment for skilled professionals seeking employment opportunities.

Nearby Job Markets

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Recreational Therapists make in Texas?

The median annual salary for a Recreational Therapists in Texas is $81,870. This typically ranges from $33,540 for entry-level positions to $203,440 for top-level roles.

How does the salary compare to the national average?

The average salary for this role in Texas is 35.9% higher than the national median of $60,230.

Is Texas a lucrative place for Recreational Therapists?

Yes, Texas offers a lucrative environment for Recreational Therapists.The average salary of $81,870 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is below the national average, enhancing purchasing power.

Is Texas a good place to live for Recreational Therapists?

With a Cost of Living Index of 93 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.

How does the Texas salary compare to the national average?

Recreational Therapists in Texas earn an average of $81,870 annually, which is substantially higher than the national average of $60,230.

What is the concentration of Recreational Therapists in Texas?

The Location Quotient for Recreational Therapists in Texas is 0.76, indicating a slightly lower concentration compared to the national average.

How does the cost of living in Texas affect salary perception?

With a Cost of Living Index of 93, Texas is more affordable than the national average, meaning the $81,870 salary provides a higher real income and purchasing power.

What does the total local workforce number suggest?

A total local workforce of 1,030 Recreational Therapists indicates a significant presence and established demand for these professionals within the state of Texas.

Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,030 employees in the Texas area with a job density of 0.074 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.

Semantic Salary Analysis for Recreational Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Texas