Athletic trainers play an important role in sports and healthcare. They help athletes stay healthy, recover from injuries, and prevent future problems. But how much do they earn? Their salaries depend on factors like experience, location, and the type of job they have.
In this article, we’ll break down how much athletic trainers make, what affects their pay, and how they can increase their earnings.
What is an Athletic Trainer?
An athletic trainer is a healthcare professional who works with athletes and active individuals to prevent, diagnose, and treat injuries. They are different from personal trainers because they have medical training and must be certified. Athletic trainers work in many places, including:
- Schools and universities
- Professional sports teams
- Hospitals and clinics
- Military and law enforcement
- Fitness and rehab centers
Because they work in different environments, their salaries can vary.
Average Salary of Athletic Trainers
The average salary of an athletic trainer in the United States is about $57,930 per year according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, salaries can range from $44,090 to over $76,180 depending on the factors we’ll discuss below.
Here’s a breakdown of what athletic trainers typically earn at different levels:
- Entry-level (0-1 year experience): Around $45,000 – $50,000 per year
- Mid-level (2-5 years experience): Around $50,000 – $60,000 per year
- Experienced (5-10 years experience): Around $60,000 – $70,000 per year
- Senior level (10+ years experience): Can exceed $75,000 per year
The top 10% of athletic trainers can make over $80,000 per year, especially if they work for professional sports teams or in high-paying locations.
Factors That Affect an Athletic Trainer’s Salary
1. Experience Level
Like most careers, the more experience an athletic trainer has, the higher their salary.
- Beginners may start in entry-level positions earning around $45,000 per year.
- Mid-career trainers with 5-10 years of experience can make over $60,000 per year.
- Veterans in the field who have been working for 10+ years, especially in high-demand areas, can earn $70,000 or more.
Gaining experience and proving your skills can lead to promotions and better pay.
2. Education and Certifications
Athletic trainers must have a bachelor’s degree in athletic training or a related field. However, those with a master’s degree often earn more.
Certifications can also boost salary. The Board of Certification for Athletic Trainers (BOC) is required, but additional certifications in strength training, rehabilitation, or sports nutrition can lead to higher-paying jobs.
3. Location
Where an athletic trainer works makes a big difference in salary. Some states pay more because of higher living costs or more demand for trainers.
Here are the top-paying states for athletic trainers:
- California – $63,624 per year
- New Jersey – $63,220 per year
- Massachusetts – $62,758 per year
- Connecticut – $61,900 per year
- Texas – $60,340 per year
Meanwhile, some states pay much less, with salaries closer to $50,000.
If you’re willing to move to a high-paying state, you can earn more.
4. Type of Employer
The industry you work in also impacts your salary. Some athletic trainers work in schools, while others work in hospitals or with professional teams.
Here’s how much trainers earn in different workplaces:
- Colleges and universities: $60,000+ per year
- Professional sports teams: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
- Hospitals and rehab centers: $57,000 per year
- Military and law enforcement: $60,000+ per year
- High schools: $50,000 – $55,000 per year
Professional sports teams and specialized medical centers tend to pay the most.
5. Demand for Athletic Trainers
The demand for athletic trainers is increasing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 13% job growth over the next decade, much faster than the average for most jobs.
This means more job opportunities and potential salary increases in the future.
How Can Athletic Trainers Increase Their Salary?
If you’re an athletic trainer or thinking of becoming one, here are some ways to boost your income:
1. Gain More Experience
With each year of experience, salaries tend to increase. Look for opportunities to work with different teams or in specialized areas like rehab or strength training.
2. Get Advanced Certifications
Consider additional certifications like:
- Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
- Corrective Exercise Specialist (CES)
- Performance Enhancement Specialist (PES)
These credentials make you more valuable and can lead to higher-paying positions.
3. Earn a Master’s Degree
Trainers with a master’s degree earn more than those with just a bachelor’s degree. Consider studying exercise science, sports medicine, or physical therapy.
4. Work in a High-Paying Industry
If you work in a high school, consider moving to a university or hospital, where salaries are higher. If possible, look for jobs with professional teams or military programs, which offer some of the highest salaries.
5. Relocate to a Higher-Paying State
States like California, New Jersey, and Massachusetts pay more than states like Arkansas or Mississippi. If you’re open to moving, you can earn a higher salary.
Pros and Cons of Being an Athletic Trainer
Pros
Rewarding Work – You help athletes recover and improve their performance.
Job Security – Demand for athletic trainers is growing.
Diverse Work Environments – You can work in schools, hospitals, sports teams, and even the military.
Opportunities for Growth – With experience and education, salaries can increase.
Cons
Long Hours – Trainers often work nights, weekends, and holidays.
Physically Demanding – The job requires standing for long hours and treating injuries.
Lower Pay for Beginners – Entry-level salaries can be on the lower side.
Despite some challenges, many find athletic training to be a fulfilling career.
To Wrap It Up
Athletic trainers play an important role in sports and healthcare. Their salaries depend on experience, education, location, and industry. While the average salary is around $57,930 per year, trainers in high-paying states or industries can earn $70,000+.
With strong job growth, advanced certifications, and experience, athletic trainers have plenty of opportunities to increase their earnings and build a successful career.
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