Average Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Salary

An In-Depth Look at RBT Salaries Across the U.S.

Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) play a vital role in delivering Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, especially for individuals with autism and other developmental disorders. As demand for these services continues to grow, so does the importance of understanding the salary landscape for RBTs. This article explores the average salaries, regional variations, factors influencing pay, and career growth prospects for professionals in this essential field.

Average Salary Overview for RBTs in the United States

The compensation for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) in the U.S. varies based on factors like experience, location, and skills. On average, RBTs earn around $39,520 annually, with some earning more than $54,000. Entry-level salaries typically start at about $47,000 per year, providing a strong foundation for newcomers to the field.

For those with more experience, salaries can increase substantially. RBTs with 5 to 10 years of experience often make between $45,000 and $55,000 annually, and after a decade, earnings can range from $50,000 to over $65,000. RBTs holding a master’s degree in behavior analysis might begin earning between $45,500 and $60,000, with potential to reach $80,000 with more experience.

The hourly wages align with these figures, generally falling between $20 to $23. In 2025, the average hourly pay is about $19.53, with the highest recorded hourly pay reaching $25.36. Factors like skills in data collection, crisis intervention, and data analysis can enhance earning potential slightly.

Salary levels also differ geographically. For example, in Texas, the average salary is around $39,000, with higher salaries found in cities like Austin and San Antonio at approximately $45,760. Conversely, in states such as New York, RBTs can expect about $48,157 annually.

Overall, RBT salaries have seen consistent growth over recent years, increasing from an average of $33,600 in 2017 to about $38,000 in 2022, reflecting the expanding demand for behavior analysis services. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued job growth for RBTs through 2028, which could further drive salary increases.

Salary Stage	Range or Average	Details
Entry-level	~$47,000/year	Starting salaries for new RBTs
Mid-experience	$45,000 - $55,000/year	RBTs with 5-10 years of experience
Experienced	>$65,000/year	RBTs with 10+ years, especially with advanced degrees
Hourly Rate Range	$14.18 - $27.88	Depending on location and expertise

Overall, the outlook for RBT salaries remains positive, reflecting value recognition for professionals in this growing field.

Experience-Level Salary Variations for RBTs

The salary of a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) varies widely depending on experience and education. Entry-level RBTs often start at around $17.43 per hour, translating to roughly $32,000 to $43,000 annually. These professionals are gaining foundational skills and typically have less than 2 years of experience.

As RBTs gain experience, their salaries tend to increase significantly. RBTs with 5 to 10 years of experience can earn from $45,000 to $55,000, and those with over a decade can see salaries surpassing $65,000 annually. This increase reflects the accumulation of specialized skills, such as data collection, crisis intervention, and data analysis, which can enhance earning potential.

Education also plays a role in salary differences. RBTs with a bachelor’s degree often earn 15-20% more than those without. For example, individuals holding a bachelor's typically earn between $45,000 and $65,000 per year, depending on their experience.

Higher education, such as a master’s degree in behavior analysis, can further boost earnings. Entry-level professionals with a master's might start at approximately $45,500; after five years, salaries can reach $60,000, and after ten years, they can exceed $80,000.

Overall, experience and skills are major drivers of salary growth for RBTs, with seasoned professionals in specialized roles or with advanced degrees commanding higher pay.

Regional and Geographic Salary Differences in RBT Compensation

Are there regional or geographic differences in RBT salaries?

Yes, there are notable regional variations in RBT salaries across the United States. These differences are influenced by factors such as the cost of living, demand for behavioral services, and local economic conditions. Urban areas like California and New York typically offer higher wages, with salaries often exceeding $50,000 annually. Conversely, more rural states such as Alabama tend to have lower average salaries around $39,000.

What states pay the highest average salaries for RBTs?

Certain states stand out for offering higher average pay to RBTs. For example, New York pays approximately $48,157 annually, making it one of the higher-paying states. Other states like New Hampshire and Vermont also have above-average salaries, while Hawaii surpasses these with averages over $54,000 driven by higher living costs and increased demand for behavioral health services.

How does cost of living impact salaries?

Cost of living adjustments play a significant role in salary differences. Higher wages in states like New York and Hawaii often reflect the increased expenses associated with housing, transportation, and general living costs. This ensures that RBTs can maintain a reasonable standard of living despite geographic disparities.

Region	Average Salary Range	Cost of Living Impact	Notable Factors
Urban (e.g., NY, CA)	$50,000+	High	Increased demand, higher living costs
Suburban/Rural	$39,000 - $45,000	Moderate to Low	Lower costs, varying demand
Specific States	Over $54,000 (Hawaii)	Very high	Tourism-driven economy, high living expenses

Understanding these geographic and economic trends helps aspiring RBTs make informed decisions about where to work, balancing salary with cost of living to find the best fit for their professional and personal needs.

Factors Influencing RBT Salary and Career Growth

What factors influence the salary of a Registered Behavior Technician?

The salary of an RBT is shaped by multiple elements. Geographic location plays a significant role, with states like New York, New Hampshire, and Vermont offering higher wages. For example, RBTs in Texas earn around $39,000 annually, while those in New York can make approximately $48,157.

Level of experience and education are critical factors. Entry-level RBTs with a bachelor's degree typically start around $32,000 to $43,000. Those with 5 to 10 years of experience can earn from $45,000 to $55,000, and experienced professionals with a master’s degree in behavior analysis may earn between $45,500 and $60,000 at entry, reaching higher levels later.

Certifications and skill specialization further impact earnings. Skills such as Data Collection, Crisis Intervention, and Data Analysis — if certified or mastered — can boost salaries slightly, especially for seasoned RBTs.

How does experience and skill specialization affect earnings?

Experience greatly influences earning potential. Entry-level RBTs earn around $17.43 to $19.53 hourly, while experienced technicians can earn up to $21.74 or more. Over the years, additional skills and certifications can elevate an RBT’s income. For instance, those proficient in Data Analysis or Crisis Management often see increased pay.

Professionals with several years of experience, typically 5 to 10, can see their annual income rise to between $50,000 and over $65,000, reflecting not only accumulated experience but also specialized skills.

Additional insights on growth and demands

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts strong job growth for RBTs from 2018 to 2028, suggesting more opportunities and potentially higher salaries. As demand for behavioral health services increases, especially for individuals with autism spectrum disorder, RBTs will find expanded career paths and pay increases.

Overall, a combination of geographic location, experience, education, and specific skills determines the earning potential for a Registered Behavior Technician, with promising growth prospects in the near future.

Salary Trends and Market Outlook for RBTs

What is the employment outlook and market growth for RBTs?

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts significant growth for Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) from 2018 to 2028. This expansion is driven by an increasing need for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, particularly for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. As demand rises, employment opportunities are expected to grow, which can also lead to higher salaries for those in the field.

How have RBT salaries changed over recent years?

Over the past few years, RBT salaries have seen steady increases. In 2017, the average salary was around $33,600 annually. By 2022, this figure had risen to approximately $38,000. This upward trend demonstrates the industry’s positive outlook and the growing value placed on qualified RBTs.

What is the potential for future salary growth?

Looking ahead, RBT salaries are projected to continue increasing. Factors such as geographical location, experience level, and specialized skills like data collection or crisis intervention can influence earnings. In states like New York, New Hampshire, and Vermont, higher pay rates are typical, reflecting regional demand. Based on current trends, experienced RBTs with advanced skills and higher education may see their annual income rise closer to $66,000 or more in the near future.

Aspect	Past Data (2017-2022)	Current/Projected Data	Notes
Average Salary	$33,600 to $38,000	$54,000 (overall average in US)	Salary growth driven by increased demand and industry recognition
Entry-Level Salary	Around $47,000	Starting salaries around $47,000	Varies by state but generally stable at entry levels
Highest Salary Potential	Over $66,000 in some states	Possible with experience and skills	Focus on skills like Data Analysis and Crisis Intervention can boost earnings
Hourly Wage Range	$20 - $23	$19.53 (average in 2025)	Wages depend on location, experience, and employer
Regional Variations	Higher in NY, NH, VT	Higher in states like NY, NH, VT	Regional differences affect average salaries and opportunities

This continual growth and regional variability make RBTs a promising career choice, with prospects of increasing salaries in the coming years based on industry demand and professional development.

Impact of Education on RBT Salary Potential

Does education level, such as obtaining a bachelor's degree, impact RBT salary?

Yes, education plays a significant role in determining the earning potential of Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). Those with a bachelor’s degree in related fields can expect higher salaries, typically earning between $32,000 and $43,000 at entry-level, and up to $55,000 with 5 to 10 years of experience.

Higher degrees further boost earnings. RBTs with a master’s degree in behavior analysis often start with salaries ranging from $45,500 to $60,000. After several years, salaries can increase to between $50,000 and $80,000, particularly in high-demand states or with advanced skills.

Advantages of higher degrees like bachelor’s and master’s

Holding a bachelor’s or master’s degree offers advantages beyond higher pay. These educational achievements can improve job opportunities, allow RBTs to take on more complex roles, and advance into supervisory or specialized positions. Higher education also opens the door for additional certifications and skills that can lead to higher earnings.

ROI on advanced education for RBTs

The return on investment (ROI) for earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree generally pays off through increased salaries and career advancement. For example, while entry-level RBTs without degrees might earn around $17.43 to $21.74 per hour, those with advanced degrees can earn over $21.74 per hour, reflecting a tangible financial benefit.

Considering the projected growth of the field and the increasing demand for qualified professionals, investing in higher education can significantly enhance an RBT's earning potential and job security in the coming years.

Summary and Future Prospects for RBT Salaries

What are the key takeaways regarding RBT salaries and future prospects?

The field of Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) currently offers competitive salaries that are expected to grow steadily. On average, RBTs earn between $39,520 to over $54,000 annually, with the median hourly wage around $19.53. Salaries can vary significantly depending on experience, geographic location, and additional skills.

Higher education and added certifications, such as skills in Data Collection or Crisis Intervention, can boost earning potential. For example, experienced RBTs with 5 to 10 years in the field may earn between $45,000 and $55,000, while those with more than a decade can earn over $65,000.

Regional differences are notable; states like New York, New Hampshire, and Vermont tend to offer higher salaries, often exceeding $48,000 annually. In Texas, the average salary is approximately $39,000, with top earners reaching $45,760.

Looking ahead, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects strong job growth for RBTs through 2028, driven by increased demand for Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapies. This growth bodes well for future salary increases and job stability.

What advice would you give to those planning a career as an RBT?

Prospective RBTs should focus on gaining relevant experience early in their careers. Pursuing additional certifications in specialized skills can lead to higher pay and greater job opportunities.

Considering higher education options, such as obtaining a master's degree in behavior analysis, can significantly enhance income potential—from around $45,500 at entry-level to over $80,000 with experience.

Networking within the field and staying updated on new ABA techniques and certifications can help professionals maximize career growth. With growing demand and expanding opportunities, a career as an RBT offers a promising future for those committed to the field of behavioral health.

Looking Ahead in the RBT Profession

As the demand for ABA services continues to rise across the U.S., Registered Behavior Technicians can expect upward mobility in salary and career opportunities. Regional variations, education, and specialization are key factors in maximizing earning potential. With a solid outlook for growth, the RBT profession remains a promising career choice for individuals passionate about making a difference and advancing professionally.

References

• Average Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Salary
• Registered Behavior Technician Hourly Pay in 2025 | PayScale
• Registered Behavior Technician salary | Autism Resources
• Registered Behavior Technician: Average Salary in Texas in 2025
• Understanding How Much Do Registered Behavior Technicians Make
• Average Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) Salary
• Understanding the Salary for Behavior Technicians: An In-Depth ...