▼16%
$48,987
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
/ year
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$32k
MEDIAN
$49k
90%
$73k
The average salary for a Parks and Recreation Director is $48,987 in 2025
Base Salary
$32k - $73k
Total Pay
$32k - $71k
Is Average Early-Career Parks and Recreation Director with Operations Management Skills Salary your job title? Find out what you should be paid
Use our tool to get a personalized report on your market worth.What's this?
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What is the Pay by Experience Level for Parks and Recreation Directors?
What Do Parks and Recreation Directors Do?
Parks and Recreation Director Tasks
- Develop and implement plans for the parks and recreation system, and direct the collection and analysis of data to support planning.
- Under the direction of the city manager operate a city's park system and recreational programs.
- Facilitate communication of parks and recreation department activities, programs, and projects to the public.
- Oversee parks and recreation staff, assign tasks, supervise work, and provide training.
- Administer the parks and recreation budget to ensure that funds are spent efficiently and projects remain within budget.
Find your market worth – how it works:
Common Health Benefits for a Parks and Recreation Director
Medical
96%
Dental
76%
Vision
76%
None
4%
Gender Breakdown for Parks and Recreation Directors
Male
68.4%
Female
31.6%
This data is based on 19 survey responses. Learn more about the gender pay gap.
FAQs About Parks and Recreation Directors
What is the highest pay for Parks and Recreation Directors?
Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Parks and Recreation Director is $73k / year
What is the lowest pay for Parks and Recreation Directors?
Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Parks and Recreation Director is $32k / year
How can Parks and Recreation Directors increase their salary?
Increasing your pay as a Parks and Recreation Director is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Parks and Recreation Director that oversees more junior Parks and Recreation Directors, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.