Recreational Therapist Salary in South Dakota (2026)
South Dakota · 13.0% below national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Statewide Average | $45,075 | +0% | Medium |
South Dakota is home to a moderate job market for Recreational Therapists. The state's key industries — Agriculture, Finance, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $45,075 per year, South Dakota's Recreational Therapist salaries are 13.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in South Dakota (index: 0.87) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in South Dakota can expect to earn $31,675–$38,522, while experienced Recreational Therapists can command $53,927–$59,061.
Looking ahead, the Recreational Therapist profession in South Dakota is projected to grow at 3.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Agriculture continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
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What is the average Recreational Therapist salary in South Dakota?The average Recreational Therapist salary in South Dakota is $45,075 per year in 2026, which is 13.0% below the national average of $51,810.
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What city in South Dakota pays Recreational Therapists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Recreational Therapists the highest wages in South Dakota due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
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Is South Dakota a good state for Recreational Therapists?South Dakota has a moderate job market with major industries in Agriculture, Finance, Tourism. Opportunities exist in for Recreational Therapist employment.
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How does South Dakota Recreational Therapist salary compare to the US average?At $45,075/year, South Dakota Recreational Therapist salaries are 13.0% lower than the national average of $51,810/year.