Recreational Therapists
Plan, direct, or coordinate medically-approved recreation programs for patients in hospitals, nursing homes, or other institutions. Activities include sports, trips, dramatics, social activities, and crafts. May assess a patient condition and recommend appropriate recreational activity.
How to read this profile
BLS projects U.S. employment for Recreational Therapists to increase by 4.8% between 2024 and 2034, from 15,600 to 16,300 jobs. Its estimate of 1,400 annual openings includes replacement needs, so it does not represent current vacancies, contract postings, or freelance demand. The wage ($61,960), education (Bachelor's degree), and related experience (None) figures on this profile describe typical U.S. employees. O*NET skills describe the occupation; they do not assess an individual worker's proficiency.
Base employment (2024)
15,600
Projected employment (2034)
16,300
Projected change (2024–2034)
5%
Annual openings (projected average)
1,400
Pay & Preparation
$61,960
Bachelor's degree
None
None
Essential Skills
Service Orientation (4.12/5) • Coordination (4/5) • Active Listening (4/5) • Speaking (4/5) • Social Perceptiveness (4/5) • Reading Comprehension (3.88/5)
O*NET describes occupational requirements; these ratings do not measure current job-posting frequency or an individual worker’s proficiency.
BLS projections are long-term estimates; annual openings include growth and replacement needs and are not current vacancies.
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