Recreational Therapist Salary in New York (2026)
New York · 38.0% above national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | $117,972 | +65.0% | Medium |
| Buffalo | $65,778 | -8.0% | Medium |
| Yonkers | $98,667 | +38.0% | Medium |
New York is home to a very strong job market for Recreational Therapists. The state's key industries — Finance, Technology, Media — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $71,498 per year, New York's Recreational Therapist salaries are 38.0% higher than the national average.
The cost of living in New York (index: 1.38) justifies the higher pay scale. Entry-level professionals in New York can expect to earn $50,242–$61,103, while experienced Recreational Therapists can command $85,539–$93,684.
Looking ahead, the Recreational Therapist profession in New York is projected to grow at 3.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Finance continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Recreational Therapist salary in New York?The average Recreational Therapist salary in New York is $71,498 per year in 2026, which is 38.0% above the national average of $51,810.
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What city in New York pays Recreational Therapists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Recreational Therapists the highest wages in New York due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is New York a good state for Recreational Therapists?New York has a very strong job market with major industries in Finance, Technology, Media. This makes it one of the better states for Recreational Therapist employment.
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How does New York Recreational Therapist salary compare to the US average?At $71,498/year, New York Recreational Therapist salaries are 38.0% higher than the national average of $51,810/year.