Directors, Religious Activities and Education Salary 2025: $52,100 Median, Top States Pay $79,310
The median salary for Directors of Religious Activities and Education in the U.S. is $52,100, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $25 per hour, with the top 10% earning above $98,310. The role covers both religious education programming and broader congregational activities, and pay varies sharply by location.
How much Directors, Religious Activities and Education earn
The typical annual wage ranges from $34,670 at the 10th percentile to $98,310 at the 90th. The mean salary across all workers is $62,100. Most positions are full-time, and many include housing allowances or other benefits that aren't captured in these cash figures.
- Median: $52,100
- Mean: $62,100
- 10th percentile: $34,670
- 90th percentile: $98,310
Pay by state
Alabama tops the list at $79,310 average annual salary, followed by Texas ($75,420), Georgia ($72,910), Nebraska ($72,500), and Colorado ($67,760). On the lower end, South Carolina averages $36,120, Arkansas $33,920, and Louisiana $29,540. Regional differences likely reflect cost of living, denomination size, and local economies.
How to become Directors, Religious Activities and Education
Most employers require a bachelor's degree, often in religious studies, theology, education, or a related field. Many directors also hold a master's degree in divinity or religious education. Practical experience — through internships, volunteer work, or previous ministry roles — is essential. Some denominations require ordination or specific endorsements. Certification programs (e.g., from the Association of Presbyterian Church Educators or similar bodies) can strengthen candidacy.
- Earn a bachelor's degree in religious studies, theology, or education.
- Gain experience through internships or church volunteer roles.
- Consider a master's degree in divinity or religious education.
- Check denomination-specific requirements (ordination, endorsement).
- Pursue optional certification from professional religious education organizations.
Job outlook
Employment is expected to grow 2.1% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. That translates to roughly 13,800 openings each year, mostly due to workers retiring or moving to other roles. Current employment stands at 22,160 nationwide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the typical salary range for Directors of Religious Activities and Education?
The 10th percentile earns $34,670, while the 90th percentile earns $98,310. The median is $52,100.
Which states pay the highest salaries?
Alabama ($79,310), Texas ($75,420), Georgia ($72,910), Nebraska ($72,500), and Colorado ($67,760) are the top-paying states.
What education is required?
A bachelor's degree in religious studies, theology, or education is typical. Many positions also prefer a master's degree, and some denominations require ordination or certification.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Directors, Religious Activities and Education data.