Recreational Therapist Salary in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee · 12.0% below national average · Medium Demand
| City | Avg Salary | vs National | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville | $43,313 | -5.0% | Medium |
| Memphis | $38,298 | -16.0% | Medium |
Tennessee is home to a strong job market for Recreational Therapists. The state's key industries — Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism — generate significant demand for skilled professionals. At $45,593 per year, Tennessee's Recreational Therapist salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average.
The cost of living in Tennessee (index: 0.88) makes salaries stretch further than in higher-cost states. Entry-level professionals in Tennessee can expect to earn $32,038–$38,964, while experienced Recreational Therapists can command $54,547–$59,740.
Looking ahead, the Recreational Therapist profession in Tennessee is projected to grow at 3.0% annually. Major employers are actively hiring, and the state's investment in Healthcare continues to drive new opportunities for qualified candidates.
-
What is the average Recreational Therapist salary in Tennessee?The average Recreational Therapist salary in Tennessee is $45,593 per year in 2026, which is 12.0% below the national average of $51,810.
-
What city in Tennessee pays Recreational Therapists the most?Major metro areas typically pay Recreational Therapists the highest wages in Tennessee due to higher costs of living and competitive job markets.
-
Is Tennessee a good state for Recreational Therapists?Tennessee has a strong job market with major industries in Healthcare, Manufacturing, Tourism. This makes it one of the better states for Recreational Therapist employment.
-
How does Tennessee Recreational Therapist salary compare to the US average?At $45,593/year, Tennessee Recreational Therapist salaries are 12.0% lower than the national average of $51,810/year.