Recreation and Fitness Workers Earn $38,760 Median Salary (2024 BLS Data)
The median salary for Recreation and Fitness Workers is $38,760 per year, according to the latest BLS OEWS estimates. That works out to roughly $19 per hour. The bottom 10% earn about $28,250, while the top 10% bring in $70,260 or more. With 654,420 people employed in this occupation nationwide, it's a sizable field—but pay varies a lot depending on location and role.
How much Recreation and Fitness Workers earn
The BLS reports a national median salary of $38,760 for Recreation and Fitness Workers. The mean annual wage is $45,380, reflecting a mix of part-time and full-time positions. Hourly, the mean works out to about $21.82.
The typical range spans from $28,250 at the 10th percentile to $70,260 at the 90th percentile. That wide spread means some workers—likely in supervisory or specialized roles—earn significantly more than the median.
- National median: $38,760
- Mean annual: $45,380 ($21.82/hour)
- 10th percentile: $28,250
- 90th percentile: $70,260
- Number employed: 654,420
Pay by state
BLS data does not provide state-level breakdowns for Recreation and Fitness Workers. However, national figures suggest that wages tend to be higher in states with higher costs of living and in metropolitan areas with more demand for fitness and recreation services. Workers in states like California, New York, or Massachusetts may expect above-median pay, though exact figures are not available.
How to become Recreation and Fitness Worker
Most Recreation and Fitness Workers enter the field with a high school diploma or equivalent. A bachelor's degree in exercise science, kinesiology, recreation management, or a related field can improve job prospects and lead to higher-paying roles. Many positions require certification, such as a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) from ACE, NASM, or ISSA, or a Group Fitness Instructor certification. For recreation workers, a CPR/AED certification is often required. On-the-job training is common, and part-time work is a typical entry point.
- Education: High school diploma minimum; bachelor's degree preferred for advancement.
- Certifications: Personal trainer, group fitness instructor, or CPR/AED.
- Experience: Entry-level through part-time or seasonal roles.
Job outlook
The BLS does not provide a projected growth rate for Recreation and Fitness Workers from 2024 to 2034. Employment in this occupation may be influenced by factors like health trends, budget constraints in public recreation, and the expansion of private fitness chains. Overall, demand for fitness and recreation services is expected to remain steady, but the lack of official projections means workers should stay informed about local job markets.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a Recreation and Fitness Worker?
The mean annual wage is $45,380, according to the BLS. The median is $38,760, meaning half earn more and half earn less.
What are the highest-paying states for Recreation and Fitness Workers?
BLS does not publish state-specific data for this occupation. Typically, states with higher cost of living, like California and New York, tend to pay above the national median.
Do you need a degree to become a Recreation and Fitness Worker?
A high school diploma is typically sufficient for entry-level roles. However, a bachelor's degree in exercise science or recreation management can lead to better pay and advancement. Certifications like personal trainer are often required.
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 Recreation and Fitness Workers data.