RBT Salary Overview
A Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is a professional who works with individuals, often children, to help them learn and improve behaviors. RBTs typically work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA).
Average RBT Salary in the United States
- National Average: The average salary for an RBT in the U.S. is approximately $39,610 per year or $19.05 per hour.
- Entry-Level Salary: Starting RBTs can earn around $16.21 per hour, which is about $33,700 per year.
- Experienced RBTs: With more experience, RBTs can earn over $20 per hour, translating to more than $41,600 per year.
RBT Salaries by State
Salaries for RBTs can vary significantly depending on the state. Here are some examples:
- Hawaii: $54,222 per year ($26.07 per hour)
- Montana: $48,478 per year ($23.31 per hour)
- Connecticut: $45,739 per year ($21.99 per hour)
- California: $45,691 per year ($21.97 per hour)
- Massachusetts: $44,348 per year ($21.32 per hour)
- New York: $42,320 per year ($20.35 per hour)
- Florida: $36,020 per year ($17.32 per hour)
- Texas: $35,348 per year ($16.99 per hour)
- Louisiana: $29,478 per year ($14.17 per hour)
- Idaho: $25,291 per year ($12.16 per hour)
Note: These figures are approximate and can vary based on specific locations within each state.
Salary Trends Over the Years
RBT salaries have seen gradual increases over the years:
- 2022: $38,000 per year
- 2021: $36,700 per year
- 2020: $35,700 per year
- 2019: $34,400 per year
- 2018: $33,600 per year
- 2017: $33,800 per year
- 2016: $33,800 per year
- 2015: $32,400 per year
- 2014: $32,600 per year
- 2013: $30,900 per year
These figures indicate a steady growth in RBT salaries over the past decade.
Factors Affecting RBT Salaries
Several factors can influence an RBT’s salary:
- Experience: More experienced RBTs typically earn higher salaries. For instance, those with over 10 years of experience can earn between $50,000 to $66,000 per year.
- Education: RBTs with higher levels of education, such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree, often have higher earning potential. For example, RBTs with a master’s degree can earn between $50,000 to $66,000 per year.
- Location: Salaries can vary based on the cost of living and demand for RBTs in specific areas.
- Certifications: Additional certifications or specializations can lead to higher salaries.
Top-Paying Cities for RBTs
Some cities offer higher salaries for RBTs:
- Urban Honolulu, HI: $54,234 per year ($26.07 per hour)
- Campbell, CA: $46,546 per year ($22.38 per hour)
- Worcester, MA: $44,464 per year ($21.38 per hour)
- Baltimore, MD: $42,536 per year ($20.45 per hour)
- New York, NY: $42,350 per year ($20.36 per hour)
These cities have higher average salaries for RBTs compared to other areas.
Conclusion
Becoming an RBT can be a rewarding career choice, both personally and financially. Salaries vary based on experience, education, location, and other factors. It’s important to consider these aspects when pursuing a career as an RBT.
If you’re interested in becoming an RBT, ensure you meet the necessary qualifications and certifications. The Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) offers certification for RBTs. Preparing for the certification exam can be facilitated through study guides and practice tests.