The question “How much do RBTs make?” is a common one for those considering a career as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or exploring opportunities in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). As demand for ABA services grows, particularly for supporting individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other developmental disabilities, understanding the earning potential of RBTs is essential. This comprehensive guide dives into the average salaries, hourly rates, and factors influencing RBT compensation, addressing queries like “How much do Registered Behavior Technicians make?” and “How much does a Registered Behavior Technician make?” Spanning 2000–2500 words, this informational guide provides a detailed, data-driven overview of RBT salaries, including state-by-state variations, career growth opportunities, and tips for maximizing earnings.
Overview of RBT Salaries
Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) are entry-level professionals certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) to deliver ABA interventions under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). Their work is critical in helping clients develop skills and manage behaviors, making it a rewarding career both emotionally and financially. According to various sources, the average annual salary for RBTs in the United States in 2025 ranges from $39,610 to $69,255, with hourly rates typically between $15 and $33. These figures vary based on factors like location, experience, education, and work setting. Below, we’ll explore these factors in detail, providing a comprehensive picture of RBT compensation.
National Salary Averages
Based on data from reputable sources:
- Indeed (2025): The average RBT salary is $47,359 per year, with a range of $38,364 to $58,464.
- PayScale (2025): The average hourly rate is $19.91, translating to roughly $41,413 annually for a 40-hour workweek, with a range of $33,000 to $53,000.
- Salary.com (2025): The average annual salary is $69,255, with a range of $50,792 to $86,842, and an hourly rate of $33.
- The Tree Top (2025): The average salary is $54,000, with entry-level positions at $47,000 and experienced RBTs earning up to $66,000.
- Glassdoor (2025): The average salary is $55,823 per year.
- Franklin University (2023, adjusted for 2025): The median salary is $46,134, with a range of $33,301 to $79,872.
- RORI Care (2025): The salary range is $39,610 to $57,075.
These variations reflect differences in data collection methods, such as job postings, employer surveys, and self-reported salaries. For this guide, we’ll use a conservative average of $46,000 to $55,000 annually ($22–$26 per hour) as a baseline, acknowledging that higher estimates (e.g., $69,255) may include bonuses or benefits, while lower estimates may reflect entry-level or part-time roles.
Factors Influencing RBT Salaries
Several factors impact how much RBTs make, including location, experience, education, work setting, and demand for ABA services. Understanding these can help aspiring RBTs make informed career decisions.
1. Geographic Location
The cost of living, demand for ABA services, and state regulations significantly affect RBT salaries. States with higher costs of living or greater demand for autism services tend to offer higher pay. Below are examples of average annual RBT salaries by state, based on 2025 data from sources like ZipRecruiter, The Tree Top, and Salary.com:
- Highest-Paying States:
- Lowest-Paying States:
City-Level Variations: Within states, urban areas often pay more. For example:
These differences reflect higher costs of living and greater demand in urban centers with robust ABA programs.
2. Experience Level
Experience significantly impacts RBT earnings. According to PayScale and The Tree Top:
- Entry-Level (<1 year): $18.34/hour (~$38,147/year)
- Early Career (1–4 years): $19.92/hour (~$41,434/year)
- Mid-Career (5–9 years): $21.88/hour (~$45,510/year)
- Late Career (10–19 years): $21.29/hour (~$44,283/year)
- Experienced (20+ years): $20/hour (~$41,600/year)
Interestingly, some sources note a slight dip in pay for very experienced RBTs, as many transition to higher-paying roles like BCBA or BCaBA.
3. Education and Certifications
While RBT certification requires only a high school diploma, additional education or certifications can boost earnings:
- Bachelor’s Degree: RBTs with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, education, or a related field may earn 5–10% more, as employers value advanced education.
- Advanced Certifications: Pursuing certifications like BCaBA or BCBA can lead to significantly higher salaries ($60,000–$100,000+).
- Specialized Training: Skills in areas like Verbal Behavioral Milestone Assessment and Placement Program (VB-MAPP) can increase pay by 2–5%.
4. Work Setting
RBTs work in various settings, each with different pay scales:
- Clinics: Private ABA clinics often pay higher salaries ($45,000–$60,000) due to structured programs and high demand.
- Home-Based Therapy: In-home work may offer $15–$25/hour, with potential for bonuses or travel stipends.
- Schools: School-based RBTs earn $35,000–$50,000, often with benefits like pensions or summers off.
- Community Settings: Pay varies widely ($15–$30/hour) based on funding and client needs.
- Telehealth: Emerging virtual roles may pay slightly less ($15–$20/hour) but offer flexibility.
5. Demand and Job Market
The demand for RBTs is projected to grow 12–22% over the next decade, significantly higher than the average job growth rate of 5%. This growth, driven by increasing autism diagnoses and insurance mandates for ABA coverage (e.g., Arizona’s requirement of 25 hours/week for children with ASD), supports competitive salaries in high-demand areas.
6. Employer Type
- Private Companies: Companies like MySpot or Blossom ABA Therapy offer $24–$31/hour.
- Government/Nonprofits: Roles with entities like the New York State Department or Lutheran Services may pay $76,288–$98,526, often with robust benefits.
- Small Agencies: Smaller providers may pay closer to $15–$20/hour but offer more personalized work environments.
Salary Breakdown by Hourly, Weekly, and Monthly Pay
Using the average hourly rate of $22–$26 (based on $46,000–$55,000 annually for a 40-hour workweek):
- Hourly: $22–$26
- Weekly: $880–$1,040 (40 hours/week)
- Monthly: $3,833–$4,583
- Annual: $46,000–$55,000
For higher-end estimates (e.g., $69,255 from Salary.com):
- Hourly: $33
- Weekly: $1,320
- Monthly: $5,771
- Annual: $69,255
These figures assume full-time work, but many RBTs work part-time (20–30 hours/week), which reduces annual earnings proportionally.
Benefits and Additional Compensation
RBTs often receive benefits that enhance total compensation:
- Health Benefits: 51% of RBTs receive medical insurance, 43% dental, and 38% vision.
- Retirement Plans: 401(k) or pensions are offered by 20–30% of employers, especially in schools or government roles.
- Bonuses: Bonuses range from $12 to $2,000 annually, often tied to performance or client outcomes.
- Paid Time Off: 9% of total compensation comes from PTO, averaging $9,784/year for full-time RBTs.
- Professional Development: Some employers cover Continuing Education Units (CEUs) or training costs, valued at $200–$1,000 biennially.
For example, Salary.com estimates total compensation, including benefits, at $107,925 for some RBTs, far exceeding base salary.
Salary Trends and Job Outlook
RBT salaries have shown steady growth:
- 2023–2025 Trend: Advertised salaries increased 18% from 2020 to 2023, with a slight dip from $72,939 in 2023 to $70,682 in 2025, possibly due to market stabilization.
- Job Growth: Employment is projected to grow by 7,087 jobs (16.7%) by 2033, driven by rising demand for autism services.
This growth ensures job security and opportunities for salary increases, especially in high-demand states like California and Massachusetts.
Comparison to Similar Roles
To contextualize RBT earnings:
- Behavior Technician (BT): Non-certified BTs earn $36,756–$41,947, lower than RBTs due to lack of certification.
- BCaBA: Assistant behavior analysts earn $60,000–$80,000, requiring a bachelor’s degree and more training.
- BCBA: Board Certified Behavior Analysts earn $80,000–$100,000+, reflecting advanced education and responsibility.
- Psychiatric Technician: BLS data suggests $38,000 annually, slightly below RBT averages.
- Certified Behavioral Health Technician (CBHT): Salaries range from $35,000–$50,000, similar to RBTs but less standardized.
RBTs offer a competitive entry-level salary with less education than BCaBA or BCBA roles, making it an accessible career path.
Tips for Maximizing RBT Earnings
To increase earning potential, RBTs can:
- Relocate to High-Paying States: Consider opportunities in California, Massachusetts, or Washington, where salaries exceed $70,000.
- Gain Experience: Mid-career RBTs (5–9 years) earn up to 10% more than entry-level peers.
- Pursue Education: A bachelor’s degree or advanced certifications (e.g., BCaBA) can boost pay and open higher-level roles.
- Specialize: Training in tools like VB-MAPP or crisis intervention can increase hourly rates by 2–5%.
- Negotiate Benefits: Seek employers offering health insurance, bonuses, or CEU reimbursement to enhance total compensation.
- Work in High-Demand Settings: Clinics and urban areas often pay more than schools or rural settings.
- Explore Government/Nonprofit Roles: Organizations like the New York State Department offer salaries up to $98,526 with robust benefits.
Challenges and Considerations
While RBT salaries are competitive, challenges include:
- Part-Time Work: Many RBTs work 20–30 hours/week, reducing annual earnings to $20,000–$35,000.
- Emotional/Physical Demands: The role involves managing challenging behaviors, which can affect job satisfaction despite pay.
- Certification Costs: Initial certification ($200–$1,000) and annual renewals ($45 + CEUs) require budgeting.
Despite these, 44% of RBTs report high job satisfaction, citing the rewarding nature of helping clients.
Conclusion – How Much Do Registered Behavior Technicians Make?
So, how much do RBTs make? On average, Registered Behavior Technicians earn $46,000 to $55,000 annually ($22–$26/hour), with top earners in high-demand states like California reaching $76,389 or more. Salaries vary based on location, experience, education, work setting, and demand, with opportunities for growth through advanced certifications or relocation. The role’s projected 12–22% job growth ensures strong career prospects, and benefits like health insurance and PTO can significantly enhance total compensation. For those passionate about ABA, becoming an RBT offers financial stability and the chance to make a meaningful impact. To explore job opportunities or certification details, visit www.bacb.com or job boards like Indeed and Glassdoor.