Average Recreational Therapists Salary in Topeka, KS
The average salary for Recreational Therapistss in Topeka, KS is $46,850. While this is lower than the national average, the cost of living in Topeka, KS may offset the difference, preserving real purchasing power. Notably, Topeka, KS is a key hub for this profession, with a job concentration 6.6x higher than average.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $46,850 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 1.7% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $61,690.
- Outlook: The current demand for Recreational Therapistss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 70 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Topeka, KS economy.
Salary Overview
The average Recreational Therapists in Topeka, KS earns-22.2%below the national average.
$22.5
$901
$3,904
Recreational Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 4 years, Recreational Therapists salaries in Topeka, KS have remained stable with a modest increase of 1.7%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Recreational Therapists Salary Distribution in Topeka, KS
The earning potential for Recreational Therapistss in Topeka, KS varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $35,080, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $61,690.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $35,080 | $16.9 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $35,138 | $16.9 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $42,740 | $20.5 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $58,563 | $28.2 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $61,690 | $29.7 |
Detailed Recreational Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$46,850
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$46,850
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Topeka, KS, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $46,850 to $46,850.
Job Market Context
70
Total Jobs
0.645
Per 1K Jobs
6.6
Location Quotient
Topeka, KS has 6.6x the national concentration of Recreational Therapists jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
70 people work as Recreational Therapists in Topeka, KS.
Only 0.645 out of every 1,000 local jobs are Recreational Therapists roles — this is a niche profession in the area.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Recreational Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Kansas City, MO-KS Recreational Therapists Salary | $49,110↑ 5% | 60 mi |
| Kansas nonmetropolitan area Recreational Therapists Salary | $39,710↓ 15% | 66 mi |
Comparing salaries near Topeka, KS
Hiring Recreational Therapistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Recreational Therapists make in Topeka, KS?
The median annual salary for a Recreational Therapists in Topeka, KS is $46,850. This typically ranges from $35,080 for entry-level positions to $61,690 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Topeka, KS is 22.2% lower than the national median of $60,230.
Is Topeka, KS a good place for Recreational Therapistss?
Yes, Topeka, KS is highly recommended due to strong job demand. While salaries are competitive ($46,850), the area is particularly notable for its high job density for Recreational Therapistss. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Topeka, KS a good place to live for Recreational Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Topeka, KS is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Topeka, KS?
Some top paying nearby cities include Kansas City, MO-KS ($49,110) and Kansas nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 70 employees in the Topeka, KS area with a job density of 0.645 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Recreational Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Topeka, KS