Animal Trainers vs. Amusement and Recreation Attendants: Who Earns More?
Animal Trainers out-earn Amusement and Recreation Attendants by $8K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Animal Trainers land at $39,990 and Amusement and Recreation Attendants at $32,150. The education gap is real: animal trainer programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while amusement and recreation attendant programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Animal Trainers is Virginia ($62,960); for Amusement and Recreation Attendants it's Alaska ($45,680).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Animal Trainers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Animal Trainers or Amusement and Recreation Attendants?
Animal Trainers earn more nationally. The median is $39,990 for Animal Trainers versus $32,150 for Amusement and Recreation Attendants, a difference of $8K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Animal Trainers or Amusement and Recreation Attendants?
Animal Trainers has the better 10-year outlook at 5.1% projected growth, compared to 3.4% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Animal Trainers or Amusement and Recreation Attendants?
Animal Trainers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Amusement and Recreation Attendants requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Animal Trainers get paid the most?
Virginia is the top-paying state for Animal Trainers at $62,960/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Animal Trainers vs. Amusement and Recreation Attendants pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Oregon, Animal Trainers earn $55,520 vs. $35,400 for Amusement and Recreation Attendants. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.