BCBA Salary Guide: What Behavior Analysts Earn by State, Setting, and Experience Level

If you’re considering a career in behavior analysis or planning your next move as a certified professional, here is a snapshot of the BCBA Salary Guide. If you’re probably wondering: What is the average BCBA salary?

As demand for ABA services continues to rise, so does the earning potential for Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). This guide breaks down BCBA salary trends by state, job setting, education, and experience β€” plus tips on how to grow your income in this dynamic field.


πŸ“Š What Is the Average BCBA Salary?

According to recent industry data (2024–2025), the average BCBA salary in the U.S. ranges from:

  • $70,000 to $110,000+ per year

Entry-level BCBAs typically start between $65,000–$75,000, while experienced clinicians or directors can earn $100,000–$130,000+, especially in high-demand areas or leadership roles.


🏒 BCBA Salary Guide by Setting

Where you work plays a big role in your earning potential.

 

Work Setting Estimated Salary Range
Private ABA Clinics $70,000 – $90,000
School Districts or Special Ed $60,000 – $85,000
Hospitals or Mental Health Centers $75,000 – $105,000
Telehealth/Remote Work $65,000 – $95,000
Clinical Directors/Managers $90,000 – $130,000+
Independent Contractors/Consultants Varies β€” project-based or per hour

πŸ’‘ Tip: Private practice and contracting roles often offer flexibility and higher earning potential, but also require strong business and billing support.


πŸ“ BCBA Salary Guide by State (Top 10 Highest Paying)

 

State Average Salary
California $105,000+
New Jersey $100,000+
New York $98,000+
Massachusetts $95,000+
Washington $93,000+
Illinois $90,000+
Virginia $88,000+
Texas $85,000+
Florida $80,000+
Maryland $80,000+

πŸ“Œ Salaries vary due to cost of living, demand for ABA services, insurance reimbursements, and licensing requirements.


πŸ“ˆ What Factors Influence BCBA Salary?

Several key elements impact how much a BCBA can earn:

  • Experience: More years, higher pay (especially after 3–5 years)

  • Credentials: BCBA-D (doctoral) and additional certifications increase earning potential

  • Specialties: Working with high-needs populations (e.g., severe behaviors, dual diagnosis) often pays more

  • Supervision & Management: BCBAs who supervise large teams or manage clinics can earn significantly more

  • Location: Urban and coastal areas often offer higher wages, but also higher costs


πŸ’Ό Can a BCBA Work Remotely?

Yes! Many BCBAs work in telehealth settings, especially in parent training, assessments, and supervision roles. Remote opportunities may offer:

  • Slightly lower base pay but higher flexibility

  • Opportunities to contract with multiple agencies

  • Reduced commute and overhead costs for independent providers

πŸ“Œ Learn more in our upcoming post: Can a BCBA work from home?


πŸ’‘ How to Increase Your BCBA Salary

  • βœ… Pursue Clinical Director or Supervisor Roles

  • βœ… Expand into remote or consulting work

  • βœ… Provide supervision for BCaBA or RBT hours

  • βœ… Become credentialed with multiple payers

  • βœ… Master documentation, billing, and compliance

  • βœ… Work with a company like Taylor Prime Solutions to maximize reimbursement


🀝 How Taylor Prime Solutions Helps BCBAs Grow

At Taylor Prime Solutions, we work with BCBAs across the U.S. to help them:

  • Get paid faster and more accurately

  • Stay audit-ready and compliant with insurance rules

  • Track supervision and documentation with ease

  • Launch and grow independent practices with billing and credentialing support

πŸ“ž Call us today at 844-TAYLOR-9 (844-829-5679)
🌐 Message us online  
πŸ“§ Send us an email Β 

BCBA Salary Guide: What Behavior Analysts Earn by State, Setting, and Experience Level