Animal Trainers vs. Amusement and Recreation Attendants: Who Earns More?
Animal Trainerss out-earn Amusement and Recreation Attendantss by $8K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Animal Trainerss land at $39,990 and Amusement and Recreation Attendantss 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 Trainerss is Virginia ($62,960); for Amusement and Recreation Attendantss 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 Trainerss or Amusement and Recreation Attendantss?
Animal Trainerss earn more nationally. The median is $39,990 for Animal Trainerss versus $32,150 for Amusement and Recreation Attendantss, a difference of $8K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Animal Trainers or Amusement and Recreation Attendants?
BLS Employment Projections data is not available for one or both occupations. Check the individual career pages for current outlook figures.
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 Trainerss get paid the most?
Virginia is the top-paying state for Animal Trainerss 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 Trainerss earn $55,520 vs. $35,400 for Amusement and Recreation Attendantss. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.