Recreational Therapists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,530 | $60,280 | +60.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #1 of 47 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 1,780 jobs | 15,060 jobs | 11.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $61,270 | $29.46 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,920 | $39.87 |
| Median | $96,530 | $46.41 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,640 | $49.35 |
| 90th Percentile | $112,550 | $54.11 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Recreational Therapists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $96,530 in California and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +51.8%, recreational therapists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can recreational therapists increase their salary in California?
Recreational Therapists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #1 out of 47 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Recreational Therapists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Administrative and Support Services | $128,380 |
| Elementary and Secondary Schools | $122,800 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $87,960 |
How are Recreational Therapists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Recreational Therapists in California is $96,530, which is 60.1% above the national median of $60,280.