Recreational therapists
🤍 Save CareerRecreational therapists play a vital role in the US economy, with 16K professionals employed nationwide. The median annual salary is $60,280, with projected growth of 3% through 2034 (As fast as average).
💰 Salary Range
📈 Growth Outlook
moderate — 3% projected growth🤖 AI Automation Risk
AI may assist but is unlikely to replace this role.
🤖AI Impact Deep Dive: Recreational therapists
🔬 AI Impact Deep Dive: Recreational therapists
AI Collaboration Score
Measures how much AI tools are used as collaborative assistants in this role (0% = no AI involvement, 100% = AI-intensive workflow)
🔮 Future Outlook
The core of this occupation involves physical presence, manual assistance, and real-time interpersonal interaction through activities like adaptive sports, dance, and community outings. While AI can significantly assist with digital tasks like patient assessment, treatment planning, and progress documentation, it cannot replace the physical and emotional labor required to lead therapeutic interventions in person.
Analysis based on Microsoft "Working with AI" research (2025), O*NET task data v30.2, and Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational projections. Updated March 2026.
🌅A Day in the Life
🌟Career Outlook & Getting Started
Why It's Promising
With 3% projected growth and a median salary of $60,280, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent.
How to Get Started
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field.
Who Is It For
Anyone interested in recreational therapists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field.
🎓Majors & Top Schools
❓Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Recreational therapists make in 2026?▼
The median salary for a Recreational therapists is $60,280 per year. Entry-level positions start around $36,168, while experienced professionals can earn up to $96,448 depending on location, specialization, and industry.
How do I become a Recreational therapists?▼
Entry typically requires bachelor's degree. Start by exploring relevant AP courses in high school, gaining hands-on experience through internships or volunteering, and connecting with professionals in the field. The typical education requirement is bachelor's degree.
What degree do you need to be a Recreational therapists?▼
Most Recreational therapists positions require bachelor's degree. However, some professionals enter the field through alternative paths like bootcamps, certifications, or self-directed learning.
What AP courses should I take to become a Recreational therapists?▼
Check PathLeap for personalized AP course recommendations for Recreational therapists. The right AP courses depend on your target college major and career specialization.
What does a Recreational therapists do on a daily basis?▼
As a recreational therapist, your day involves a mix of specialized tasks that require both expertise and adaptability. You work with colleagues, clients, or patients depending on the setting, applying your training to solve real-world problems.
Is Recreational therapists a good career in 2026?▼
With 3% projected growth and a median salary of $60,280, this career offers steady prospects. While the field is specialized, demand remains consistent. Job growth is projected at 3%, which is declining. The median salary of $60,280 also positions it competitively in the job market.
Will AI replace Recreational therapistss?▼
Recreational therapists has an AI automation risk score of 30/100 (Low). AI will change how this work is done, but the core skills remain valuable. Professionals who learn to work with AI tools will have a significant advantage.
What kind of person makes a good Recreational therapists?▼
Anyone interested in recreational therapists who wants to build a rewarding career in this field. Success in this role also depends on continuous learning and adaptability, especially as the field evolves with new technology and industry trends.
Is Recreational therapists Right for You?
Take our career quiz to see how Recreational therapists matches your personality. Get personalized AP course recommendations and see what similar students are exploring.
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