Discover the 2025 RBT salary by state, hourly rates, and how a bachelor’s degree can boost your pay. See salaries in Florida, Texas, California & more!
If you’re considering a career as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or are already working in the field, understanding your earning potential is essential. The demand for RBTs is rising across the United States, and salaries can vary based on location, education, and experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the RBT salary per hour, compare pay across states like Florida, Texas, California, and more, and discuss how a bachelor’s degree can influence your income.
As the field of applied behavior analysis (ABA) grows, so does the recognition of the vital role RBTs play in helping individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. From implementing treatment plans to supporting families, RBTs are on the frontlines of behavioral health care. This increasing demand has led to better compensation packages, more job openings, and flexible work opportunities across the country. Whether you’re looking to start your career or considering a move to boost your earnings, understanding the salary trends for RBTs in different states is the first step toward making an informed decision.
Let’s dive in!
What Is the Average RBT Salary Per Hour?
Have you ever wondered how much do rbt make? or how much do rbt make an hour?
The RBT salary per hour typically ranges between $18 to $28, depending on experience, certification, and location. Beginners usually start on the lower end, while experienced RBTs and those with specialized skills can command higher rates.
Here’s a quick glance at average hourly rates:
- Entry-level: $18 – $22 per hour
- Mid-career: $22 – $25 per hour
- Experienced: $25 – $28+ per hour
Factors like working in schools, private clinics, or home-based services can also impact your hourly wage.
RBT Salary in Florida
Florida is one of the top states for RBT employment due to its large healthcare network and growing demand for ABA therapy. The RBT salary in Florida averages around $21.50 per hour, translating to an annual salary of approximately $44,000 if working full-time.
RBT Salary in Miami, Florida
If you’re targeting urban areas, you’ll find that the RBT salary in Miami is slightly higher due to the city’s cost of living and increased demand. In Miami, RBTs earn around $23 per hour or about $47,800 annually.
RBT Salary in Texas
Texas has seen a boom in behavioral health services, which positively affects RBT salaries. The average RBT salary in Texas is about $22.80 per hour, which comes out to roughly $47,400 per year. Cities like Houston and Dallas may offer slightly higher rates, making Texas a solid option for RBTs seeking good pay and lower living costs.
RBT Salary in California
California consistently ranks among the highest-paying states for RBTs. The RBT salary in California is approximately $25.50 per hour, equaling an annual income of around $53,000. However, the cost of living in places like Los Angeles and San Francisco is also higher, which is something to keep in mind.
RBT Salary in Georgia
In Georgia, the average RBT salary is slightly below the national average but still competitive. RBT salary in Georgia typically stands at $21 per hour, or about $43,680 per year. Atlanta offers slightly higher wages than the state average.
RBT Salary in Illinois
Illinois offers an average RBT pay rate of $22.30 per hour, leading to an annual salary of around $46,400. Chicago RBTs may earn closer to $24 per hour due to urban demand and living costs.
RBT Salary in Ohio
For those considering Ohio, the average RBT salary is about $21.50 per hour, or roughly $44,700 annually. Cities like Columbus and Cleveland may provide slightly better compensation due to larger client bases.
RBT Salary in Massachusetts
Massachusetts is known for paying its healthcare workers well, and RBTs are no exception. The average RBT salary in Massachusetts is around $24.60 per hour, which equals an impressive $51,000 per year. Boston and its surrounding areas tend to offer the best salaries in the state.
How a Bachelor’s Degree Affects RBT Salary
Although RBT certification doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree, having one can significantly improve your earning potential. An RBT salary with a bachelor’s degree often falls on the higher end of the scale, around $25 to $30 per hour, especially if paired with additional credentials or specialized experience.
Here’s why a bachelor’s degree can boost your salary:
- Opens doors to supervisory roles
- Enhances skills in behavior analysis and therapy
- Positions you for promotions to BCaBA or BCBA roles, which pay significantly more
Employers often view candidates with a degree as more versatile and ready for leadership roles, making them willing to pay higher rates.
Free RBT Mock Test: Click Here
RBT Salary by State (2025)
Below is a table summarizing average RBT salary by state based on 2025 estimates:
| State | Average Hourly Pay | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $20.50 | $42,640 |
| Alaska | $24.80 | $51,580 |
| Arizona | $21.80 | $45,350 |
| Arkansas | $20.00 | $41,600 |
| California | $25.50 | $53,000 |
| Colorado | $23.00 | $47,840 |
| Connecticut | $24.20 | $50,330 |
| Delaware | $23.50 | $48,880 |
| Florida | $21.50 | $44,000 |
| Georgia | $21.00 | $43,680 |
| Hawaii | $25.00 | $52,000 |
| Idaho | $20.30 | $42,230 |
| Illinois | $22.30 | $46,400 |
| Indiana | $21.60 | $44,920 |
| Iowa | $21.00 | $43,680 |
| Kansas | $20.50 | $42,640 |
| Kentucky | $20.80 | $43,260 |
| Louisiana | $20.20 | $42,020 |
| Maine | $22.80 | $47,420 |
| Maryland | $24.00 | $49,920 |
| Massachusetts | $24.60 | $51,000 |
| Michigan | $22.00 | $45,760 |
| Minnesota | $23.20 | $48,250 |
| Mississippi | $20.00 | $41,600 |
| Missouri | $21.50 | $44,720 |
| Montana | $20.80 | $43,260 |
| Nebraska | $21.30 | $44,300 |
| Nevada | $23.00 | $47,840 |
| New Hampshire | $23.50 | $48,880 |
| New Jersey | $24.50 | $50,960 |
| New Mexico | $21.00 | $43,680 |
| New York | $24.00 | $49,920 |
| North Carolina | $21.20 | $44,090 |
| North Dakota | $21.50 | $44,720 |
| Ohio | $21.50 | $44,700 |
| Oklahoma | $20.50 | $42,640 |
| Oregon | $24.00 | $49,920 |
| Pennsylvania | $22.00 | $45,760 |
| Rhode Island | $24.00 | $49,920 |
| South Carolina | $20.80 | $43,260 |
| South Dakota | $20.50 | $42,640 |
| Tennessee | $21.00 | $43,680 |
| Texas | $22.80 | $47,400 |
| Utah | $22.20 | $46,170 |
| Vermont | $22.80 | $47,420 |
| Virginia | $23.50 | $48,880 |
| Washington | $25.00 | $52,000 |
| West Virginia | $20.00 | $41,600 |
| Wisconsin | $22.20 | $46,170 |
| Wyoming | $21.50 | $44,720 |
Note: Salaries can vary depending on experience, employer type, and city-specific demand.
Other Factors That Impact RBT Salaries
While location and education are major factors, several other elements affect how much an RBT can earn:
- Experience Level: More years in the field often mean higher pay.
- Specialization: Skills like working with non-verbal children or using advanced ABA software can boost your rate.
- Employer Type: Schools, private clinics, and home services pay differently.
- Full-Time vs. Part-Time: Full-time positions often come with benefits and better pay packages.
Future Outlook for RBT Salaries
With growing awareness of autism spectrum disorders and expanded insurance coverage for behavioral therapy, the demand for RBTs is expected to keep rising. This trend suggests that salaries may continue to increase, especially in states with strong healthcare infrastructure.
Experts predict an average annual growth rate of 3-5% in RBT salaries over the next few years, making this a stable and rewarding career path.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re just starting as a Registered Behavior Technician or looking to advance in your career, understanding the salary landscape can help you make informed decisions. As we’ve seen, RBT salaries vary widely depending on your state, education, and experience. If you aim for higher pay, consider gaining specialized skills, pursuing a bachelor’s degree, or moving to states like California or Massachusetts where salaries are on the higher end.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your career as a Registered Behavior Technician, now is the perfect time. With salaries on the rise and demand growing nationwide, becoming an RBT offers both financial stability and the chance to make a real difference. Whether you’re aiming to boost your pay with a bachelor’s degree or considering relocating to a higher-paying state like California or Massachusetts, the opportunities are abundant. Ready to explore more? Check out our free RBT salary table above and practice exams to help you plan your path to success!
No matter where you’re located, the RBT profession offers a meaningful career with solid earning potential and room for growth.