Average BCaBA Salary By State

Introduction

Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analysts (BCaBAs) play a crucial role in providing behavioral analysis services under the supervision of Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs). If you're considering a career as a BCaBA or looking to relocate for better compensation, understanding salary variations across states is essential for making informed decisions.

This comprehensive guide examines BCaBA salary data across the United States, highlighting regional differences, factors influencing compensation, and career growth opportunities.

National BCaBA Salary Overview

According to the most recent data, the national average salary for BCaBAs in the United States ranges from $45,000 to $65,000 annually, with a median of approximately $52,000 per year[1]. However, this figure varies significantly based on geographic location, experience level, work setting, and local demand for behavior analysis services.

Top-Paying States for BCaBAs

1. California

Average Annual Salary: $65,000-$75,000
Key Factors: High cost of living, strong demand for services, state insurance mandates
Job Concentration: Highest in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego metropolitan areas

2. New York

Average Annual Salary: $63,000-$72,000
Key Factors: Urban concentration of services, comprehensive insurance coverage
Job Concentration: Primarily in NYC metro area with growing opportunities upstate

3. Massachusetts

Average Annual Salary: $60,000-$70,000
Key Factors: Strong academic presence, early adoption of ABA therapy coverage
Job Concentration: Boston and surrounding suburbs

4. New Jersey

Average Annual Salary: $58,000-$68,000
Key Factors: Proximity to major metropolitan areas, strong state support for services
Job Concentration: North Jersey and Philadelphia suburbs

5. Washington

Average Annual Salary: $57,000-$67,000
Key Factors: Growing tech industry with good benefits, increasing awareness of ABA services
Job Concentration: Seattle metropolitan area

States with Growing Demand

While not currently among the highest-paying, these states are showing significant growth in BCaBA opportunities and salary increases:

Florida: Average salary $50,000-$60,000, with 15% growth in positions over the past three years[2]
Texas: Average salary $48,000-$58,000, with expanding insurance coverage
Arizona: Average salary $47,000-$56,000, with recent legislation supporting ABA services

Factors Affecting BCaBA Salaries

Experience Level

Entry-level (0-2 years): $42,000-$50,000
Mid-career (3-7 years): $50,000-$65,000
Experienced (8+ years): $65,000-$80,000

Work Setting

Schools: Typically $45,000-$55,000 with better benefits and work-life balance
Private clinics: Usually $48,000-$65,000 with variable benefits
Home-based services: Often $50,000-$70,000 with travel considerations

Credentials and Education

BCaBAs with additional certifications or specialized training (such as in specific treatment methodologies or populations) can command salaries 10-15% higher than the state average[3].

Cost of Living Considerations

When evaluating salaries across states, it's essential to consider cost of living differences:

A $65,000 salary in California may provide a similar lifestyle to a $50,000 salary in Georgia
Housing costs can consume 30-50% of salaries in high-cost locations like San Francisco or New York City
Some lower-paying states offer significantly better quality of life when adjusted for expenses

Career Growth and Advancement

Many BCaBAs use their position as a stepping stone to becoming full BCBAs, which can increase earning potential by 25-40%. According to industry surveys, approximately 45% of BCaBAs pursue BCBA certification within five years[4].

Remote Work Opportunities

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telehealth in behavioral analysis. Remote BCaBA positions now account for approximately 15% of job listings, often with salaries aligned with the company's home state rather than the employee's location[5].

Conclusion

BCaBA salaries vary significantly across states, influenced by factors including regional demand, cost of living, work setting, and experience level. While coastal states typically offer higher numerical salaries, professionals should consider comprehensive factors including cost of living, career growth potential, and quality of life when making employment decisions.

As awareness and insurance coverage for ABA therapy continue to expand nationwide, BCaBA opportunities and compensation are projected to grow across all states in the coming years.