If you’re considering a career as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) or already working in the field, one of the first questions you might ask is: How much do RBTs make in 2025? Salaries for RBTs continue to rise as demand for applied behavior analysis (ABA) services grows across the U.S.
In this guide, we’ll break down the average RBT salary in 2025, including annual pay, hourly rates, and the highest-paying states. We’ll also look at the factors that influence earnings and how you can increase your income as an RBT.
What Is an RBT?
A Registered Behavior Technician is a paraprofessional certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). RBTs work under the supervision of a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) to implement behavior plans, collect data, and provide direct support to clients.
Also read: What is an RBT? Role, Duties & Career Overview
Average RBT Salary in 2025
In 2025, the average annual salary for an RBT ranges from $42,000 to $48,000 nationwide. That’s about $3,500 to $4,000 per month for full-time work.
Salary growth trend:
- 2020: ~$37,000 annually
- 2022: ~$40,000 annually
- 2024: ~$44,000 annually
- 2025: ~$42,000–$48,000 annually
RBT Hourly Pay in 2025
Most RBTs are paid hourly, and in 2025, the average hourly rate is $19 to $24.
- Entry-level RBTs: $17–$19 per hour
- Mid-level RBTs (2–4 years of experience): $20–$22 per hour
- Experienced RBTs (5+ years): $23–$25 per hour
Note: Some cities and states with high living costs (like California or New York) may offer rates above $25 per hour.
RBT Salary by State in 2025
| Sr. No. | State | Average Salary (Annual) | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | $48,000 | $23.08 |
| 2 | Alaska | $45,000 | $21.63 |
| 3 | Massachusetts | $44,000 | $21.15 |
| 4 | New Jersey | $44,000 | $21.15 |
| 5 | Colorado | $43,000 | $20.67 |
| 6 | Connecticut | $43,000 | $20.67 |
| 7 | New York | $43,000 | $20.67 |
| 8 | Washington | $43,000 | $20.67 |
| 9 | Maryland | $41,000 | $19.71 |
| 10 | Rhode Island | $41,000 | $19.71 |
| 11 | Hawaii | $40,000 | $19.23 |
| 12 | New Hampshire | $40,000 | $19.23 |
| 13 | Oregon | $40,000 | $19.23 |
| 14 | Delaware | $39,000 | $18.75 |
| 15 | Arizona | $38,000 | $18.27 |
| 16 | Illinois | $38,000 | $18.27 |
| 17 | Minnesota | $38,000 | $18.27 |
| 18 | Nevada | $38,000 | $18.27 |
| 19 | Vermont | $38,000 | $18.27 |
| 20 | Virginia | $38,000 | $18.27 |
| 21 | Maine | $37,000 | $17.79 |
| 22 | Pennsylvania | $37,000 | $17.79 |
| 23 | Florida | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 24 | Georgia | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 25 | Michigan | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 26 | Montana | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 27 | North Dakota | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 28 | Texas | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 29 | Utah | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 30 | Wisconsin | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 31 | Wyoming | $36,000 | $17.31 |
| 32 | Idaho | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 33 | Indiana | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 34 | Iowa | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 35 | Kansas | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 36 | Kentucky | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 37 | Missouri | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 38 | Nebraska | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 39 | New Mexico | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 40 | North Carolina | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 41 | Ohio | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 42 | South Dakota | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 43 | Tennessee | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 44 | Alabama | $35,000 | $16.83 |
| 45 | Maine | $37,000 | $17.79 |
| 46 | Arkansas | $34,000 | $16.35 |
| 47 | Oklahoma | $34,000 | $16.35 |
| 48 | South Carolina | $34,000 | $16.35 |
| 49 | West Virginia | $34,000 | $16.35 |
| 50 | Mississippi | $33,000 | $15.87 |
Top Paying Cities for RBTs in 2025
| City | Average Salary (Annual) | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Soledad, CA | $84,754 | $40.75 |
| Nome, AK | $70,283 | $33.79 |
| Berkeley, CA | $69,373 | $33.35 |
| Redwood City, CA | $69,369 | $33.35 |
| Belmont, CA | $68,523 | $32.94 |
Factors That Affect an RBT’s Salary
Several key factors influence how much an RBT earns in 2025:
- Geographic Location – Salaries are higher in states and cities with high living costs and a strong demand for ABA services.
- Years of Experience – More experienced RBTs often earn higher hourly rates.
- Employer Type – Salaries vary across different types of employers, including schools, private clinics, hospitals, and in-home care agencies.
- Certification & Training – Additional skills, such as crisis intervention training or specialized ABA methods, can lead to higher pay.
- Work Setting – RBTs working in medical centers or private practices often earn more than those in school-based settings.
Benefits Beyond Salary
In addition to pay, many employers offer benefits to attract and retain RBTs. These often include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off (PTO) and sick leave
- 401(k) retirement plans
- Tuition reimbursement for pursuing BCaBA or BCBA certification
- Flexible work schedules (especially in clinics or in-home care)
Job Outlook for RBTs in 2025 and Beyond
The job outlook for RBTs remains extremely positive. According to industry reports:
- The demand for ABA services is projected to increase by at least 10% annually.
- Autism diagnoses continue to rise, increasing the need for RBTs in schools and clinics.
- Insurance coverage for ABA therapy is expanding, creating more funded RBT positions.
Also read: How to Get RBT Certification? Step-by-Step Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
The average RBT salary in 2025 is around $42,000 to $48,000 per year, depending on experience, employer, and location.
In 2025, Registered Behavior Technicians earn an average of $19 to $24 per hour, with higher rates in major cities and high-demand states.
The highest-paying states for RBTs in 2025 include California, New York, Massachusetts, and Washington, primarily due to high demand and a relatively high cost of living.
Yes. RBTs with more years of experience, advanced training, or working under the supervision of a BCBA typically earn higher salaries.
Key factors include location, employer type (such as schools, clinics, or hospitals), experience, and the demand for ABA services in the area.
Conclusion
Becoming a Registered Behavior Technician is more than just a job — it’s a career with stable demand, competitive pay, and strong growth opportunities. In 2025, RBT salaries range from $42,000 to $48,000 annually, or $19 to $24 per hour, with higher wages in states such as California, Alaska, and Massachusetts.