Recreational Therapists in Illinois
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Illinois | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,610 | $60,280 | +5.5% vs US |
| State Rank | #9 of 47 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 290 jobs | 15,060 jobs | 1.9% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Illinois
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $47,150 | $22.67 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,960 | $24.98 |
| Median | $63,610 | $30.58 |
| 75th Percentile | $81,490 | $39.18 |
| 90th Percentile | $94,470 | $45.42 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Recreational Therapists in Illinois in 2026?
With a median salary of $63,610 in Illinois and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +54.3%, recreational therapists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can recreational therapists increase their salary in Illinois?
Recreational Therapists in Illinois 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: Illinois currently ranks #9 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 Illinois?
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 Illinois compared to the national average?
The median salary for Recreational Therapists in Illinois is $63,610, which is 5.5% above the national median of $60,280.