How Much Do ABA Therapists Make In Arizona?
Introduction
The role of an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapist is crucial in supporting individuals, particularly those with autism spectrum disorders, through behavioral therapy techniques. In Arizona, the demand for ABA therapists is growing, leading to diverse career opportunities and salary potentials. Exploring the earnings and influencing factors for ABA therapists in the state provides valuable insight into this rewarding career path.
Arizona's Overview of ABA Therapist Salaries
Average Salaries
The average salary for ABA therapists in Arizona is approximately $114,459 per year. This translates to about $55.00 per hour, with salaries varying based on experience and educational qualifications. Entry-level ABA therapists start at around $37,440 annually, which equates to about $18 per hour. As therapists gain experience, their earning potential increases significantly, with seasoned professionals making up to $102,765 annually.
Salary Variation by Location
Salaries for ABA therapists can differ greatly across different cities in Arizona. Here’s a quick look at average salaries in prominent cities:
| City | Average Salary | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Yuma | $125,505 | Up to $126,300 |
| Lake Havasu City | $116,809 | - |
| Phoenix | $116,104 | $46,000 - $60,000 |
| Mesa | $116,104 | - |
| Tucson | $100,530 | Up to $121,060 |
In contrast, entry-level ABA therapists across cities like Gilbert, Tempe, Glendale, and Tucson have similar earnings of around $37,440 annually.
Comparison of Urban and Rural Areas
The demand for ABA therapists is notably higher in urban centers, driving up salaries relative to rural locations. Professionals in cities like Phoenix and Yuma enjoy better pay due to a greater need for services, while those in rural areas may earn less due to lower demand.
Additionally, the job outlook for ABA therapists in Arizona is positive, with an expected growth rate that exceeds the average for all occupations in the state. This underscores the importance of understanding salary variations when considering a career in this evolving field.
How much do ABA therapists make in Arizona per hour?
ABA therapists in Arizona typically earn between $49.38 and $60.94 per hour, depending on their experience and whether they work full-time or part-time. In cities like Yuma, salaries can reach about $60.34 per hour. Experienced therapists may earn up to $42,640 annually, translating to approximately $20.50 per hour.
Earnings in Major Arizona Cities
Salaries in Phoenix
In Phoenix, the salary for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) with a decade of experience averages around $105,000 annually. For those at the top of their game, earnings can reach approximately $124,090. Entry-level positions start much lower, with salaries around $47,780, reflecting the wide range of earning potential in the city.
Salaries in Tucson
Meanwhile, in Tucson, the average salary mirrors some trends seen in Phoenix. Experienced BCBAs earn about $100,530 on average, with top earners making up to $121,060. The starting pay for entry-level positions in Tucson varies significantly, ranging from $26,460 to the median of $100,530.
Highest Paying Cities in Arizona
Yuma stands out as the highest-paying city for ABA Therapists, offering an average salary of $125,505. Other competitive cities include Lake Havasu City at $116,809 and both Phoenix and Mesa, each at approximately $116,104. The salary variations across these urban areas highlight the competitive landscape for ABA professionals within Arizona.
| City | Average Salary (Annual) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Yuma | $125,505 | Highest paying city for ABA Therapists |
| Lake Havasu | $116,809 | Competitive urban market |
| Phoenix | $116,104 | Median salary for experienced BCBAs |
| Mesa | $116,104 | Similar salary range to Phoenix |
| Tucson | $100,530 | Reflects competitiveness in family therapy field |
As of February 2025, the average hourly pay for an ABA Therapist in Phoenix is approximately $21.29, showcasing that demand for professionals in the field remains high.
Key Factors Influencing ABA Therapist Salaries
What factors influence the salary of an ABA therapist in Arizona?
Several factors influence the salary of an ABA therapist in Arizona, and these can vary significantly based on individual qualifications and market conditions.
Education Impact
The level of education attained can greatly affect salary. Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) typically earn more than Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs). Bachelor's degree holders may fall short in pay compared to those with advanced degrees or specialized training.Certification Levels
Certification plays a crucial role in determining salary. BCBAs, having met strict requirements, command higher wages. In contrast, RBTs earn an average of $35,000, while BCBAs in Arizona can average around $66,830, with experienced professionals earning up to $102,765 annually.Demand and Regional Differences
The geographical location significantly impacts potential earnings as demand for ABA therapists tends to be higher in urban areas. For instance, salaries in Phoenix average around $49,850, while Yuma shows an impressive average of $125,505. Regions with lower demand may not offer competitive salaries, leaving gaps based on urban versus rural contexts.
Urban areas show greater compensation potential due to a combination of factors, including a higher prevalence of autism spectrum disorders and more families seeking services.
Overall, remuneration for ABA therapists in Arizona can range from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, heavily influenced by these factors.
| Factor | Influence on Salary | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Higher education leads to better salaries | BCBA vs RBT |
| Certification | BCBAs earn significantly more than RBTs | $66,830 vs $35,000 |
| Demand & Location | Urban areas pay more due to demand | Phoenix vs Yuma |
| Experience | More experience equals higher pay | Entry-level vs 10+ yrs |
| Additional Pay | Bonuses can increase total earnings | $2,000 to $4,000 |
Comparison Between RBT and BCBA Salaries
How does the salary of a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) compare in Arizona?
In Arizona, the average salary for a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) is approximately $35,000 per year. This reflects entry-level positions in the field. However, experienced RBTs can earn higher, influenced by factors such as location, demand, and additional certifications.
The hourly wage for RBTs ranges from $19.04, marking the 25th percentile, to $31.15, which aligns with the 75th percentile. This translates to an average hourly pay of $25.38 as of February 2025.
Differences in earnings between RBTs and BCBAs
In contrast, Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) enjoy significantly higher earnings. The average annual salary for BCBAs in Arizona is approximately $66,830, and experienced BCBAs can earn as much as $102,765 annually. This demonstrates a clear disparity between the salaries of RBTs and BCBAs, highlighting the value of advanced education and certification.
The following table summarizes the salary comparisons:
| Position | Average Salary | Starting Salary | Top 10% Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|
| RBT | $35,000/year | $35,000/year | Up to $45,000/year |
| BCBA | $66,830/year | $47,780/year | Up to $102,765/year |
| ABA Therapist | $49,850/year | $37,440/year | Up to $126,300/year |
Role of experience and education
Experience and education play a pivotal role in determining the salaries within these roles. BCBAs, often requiring advanced degrees and certification, are compensated much more than RBTs, who fulfill support roles with lower educational requirements. The demand for BCBAs and the specialized nature of their work further amplify their salary potential in urban areas.
Insights into BCBA Certified Therapist Salaries
What is the salary range for BCBA certified therapists in Arizona?
The salary range for BCBA certified therapists in Arizona typically falls between $56,135 and $83,187 annually. Key elements influencing these figures include factors such as experience and geographical location. The average salary for BCBAs in the state is around $75,035 annually, which translates to about $36.07 per hour.
High-earning potential
For those positioned within the top 10%, earnings can exceed $83,187 per year. Interestingly, advanced roles like behavior analyst directors can approach $100,000 annually. Additionally, BCBAs who travel for work significantly boost their earnings, with some positions potentially yielding up to $132,500 in annual income.
Impact of travel on salary
Travel can dramatically influence salary levels for BCBAs. It opens up opportunities for assignments in various regions, often resulting in higher pay due to increased demand in certain areas. Consequently, mobility within the state or across state lines can be a strategic choice for maximizing earning potential.
| City | Median Salary for Experienced BCBAs | Top 10% Salary | Entry-Level Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | $105,000 | $124,090 | $47,780 |
| Tucson | $100,530 | $121,060 | $26,460 |
| Yuma | Average $125,505 | -- | -- |
| Mesa | Average around $116,104 | -- | $41,600 |
| Gilbert | -- | -- | $37,440 |
| Tempe | -- | -- | $37,440 |
| Glendale | -- | -- | $37,440 |
| Lake Havasu | Average $116,809 | -- | -- |
These figures reflect the competitive nature of salaries for BCBAs in Arizona, emphasizing how strategic choices in career development can lead to substantial financial rewards.
Entry-Level Salary Expectations for ABA Therapists
Typical starting salaries
Entry-level ABA therapists in Arizona can expect to earn between $26,460 to $47,780 annually, depending on the city. For example, in Phoenix, starting salaries are typically around $47,780, while in Tucson, these salaries can begin as low as $26,460.
On average, entry-level positions provide a salary of approximately $37,440 yearly or $18 per hour, reflecting starting roles in this rewarding profession.
Impact of city and location
Salaries can vary significantly based on geographical location. For instance, entry-level ABA therapists in Mesa report salaries around $41,600, while those in Gilbert, Tempe, Glendale, and Tucson generally earn about $37,440. As the demand for ABA therapists is higher in urban areas, therapists here often enjoy more competitive salaries than their counterparts in rural regions.
Overall, the city where an ABA therapist practices can greatly influence their starting salary and future earning potential.
Prospects and Challenges in ABA Therapy Career
Is pursuing a career as an ABA therapist worthwhile?
Working as an ABA therapist can be fulfilling if employed by a company that prioritizes compassion. Positive workplace environments enhance job satisfaction and retention. However, high turnover rates in some organizations stem from a focus on profit rather than care.
What are the challenges in the field?
Therapists may face obstacles such as low pay and insufficient hours, which can contribute to burnout. The emotional and physical demands of the job may add stress for those striving to make a difference in their clients' lives.
What growth opportunities exist for ABA therapists?
The field shows promising growth, with employment rates projected to rise significantly for behavior disorder counselors. ABA therapists can expand their careers by pursuing further certifications or transitioning into supervisory roles, which may offer higher salaries.
| City | Median Salary for BCBAs | Median Salary for ABA Therapists |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | $105,000 | $49,850 |
| Tucson | $100,530 | $45,000 |
| Mesa | N/A | $41,600 |
| Yuma | N/A | $125,505 |
Understanding these factors can help prospective ABA therapists make informed career choices.
Conclusion
ABA therapy in Arizona offers varied salary opportunities shaped by factors like location, education, and experience. While entry-level positions may offer lower salaries, the field provides significant growth potential and fulfilling career pathways for those dedicated to making a meaningful difference in behavioral therapy. With increasing demand in urban areas and evolving role scopes, ABA therapists can find rewarding opportunities across Arizona.
References
- Salaries for Applied Behavior Analysts in Arizona
- Aba Therapist Salary in Arizona
- Salary: Aba Therapist in Phoenix, AZ 2025 - Glassdoor
- Entry Level Aba Therapist: Average Salary in Arizona in 2025
- How Much Do ABA Therapists Really Make in Arizona? - Astra ABA
- BCBA and ABA Salaries by State - Applied Behavior Analysis Degrees
- Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) Salary Guide
