As of May 18, 2021, the average salary for an Athletic Trainer in the United States is $59,755 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $29.
However, an Athletic Trainer's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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An Athletic Trainer's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of an Athletic Trainer's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Levels | Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry Level Athletic Trainer | $57,516 |
| Intermediate Level Athletic Trainer | $57,720 |
| Senior Level Athletic Trainer | $60,264 |
| Specialist Level Athletic Trainer | $63,094 |
| Expert Level Athletic Trainer | $63,297 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Athletic Trainers. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Coaching | 3.42% |
| First Aid | 5.99% |
| Rehabilitation Services | 0.96% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Innovation
|
$60,950 |
2%
|
|
Patient Care
|
$60,950 |
2%
|
|
Physical Therapy
|
$60,950 |
2%
|
|
Confidentiality
|
$60,353 |
1%
|
|
Leadership
|
$60,353 |
1%
|
|
Collaboration
|
$60,353 |
1%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Athletic Trainers enter the field with a No Diploma degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for an Athletic Trainer with a No Diploma is between $54,049 and $56,942).
Athletic Trainer Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 52.4% |
| High School | 47.6% |
| Associates | 0.0% |
| Bachelors | 52.4% |
| Masters | 47.6% |
| Doctorate | 0.0% |
Understanding how an Athletic Trainer's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 18, 2021Promotions are the fastest way to increase your earnings. As an Athletic Trainer, you have the following paths for advancement. The table below compares the salary raises for common next-step roles. By comparing these figures, you can choose the career path that best meets your financial goals.
| Next Step Role | Estimate Salary | Projected Raise |
|---|---|---|
| Exercise Physiologist | $67,652 | 13% |
| Physical Therapist III | $122,088 | 104% |
Salaries for an Athletic Trainer can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $73,623 in 2023 to around $71,573 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Athletic Trainer salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $73,623 |
| 2024 | $72,722 |
| 2025 | $71,573 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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An Athletic Trainer's earning potential can vary widely depending on several factors, including location, industry, experience, education, and the specific employer. According to the latest salary data by Salary.com, an Athletic Trainer earns the most in San Jose, CA, where the annual salary of an Athletic Trainer is $75,369.
The highest pay for Athletic Trainer is $73,250.
The lowest pay for Athletic Trainer is $46,745.
Treats and prevents athletic injuries by developing therapies to reduce pain and improve mobility under the direction of a physician. Assists in exercise instruction and demonstration, patient evaluation and testing. May require state license to practice. Typically requires a bachelor's degree in exercise science, sports science or equivalent. Typically requires certification as a Certified Athletic Trainer. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. Occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. Typically requires 2 -4 years of related experience.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
With the most extensive online, real-time compensation data available, Salary.com helps you pinpoint your exact pay target.
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