Personal Trainer in Moore, OK

The Salary Picture: Where Moore Stands

As a local who’s watched the fitness scene in Moore evolve from a few big-box gyms to a more diverse mix of boutique studios and community-focused training, I can tell you that the numbers tell a clear story. The median salary for a Personal Trainer in Moore is $45,419/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $21.84/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $46,680/year, but it’s important to factor in Moore’s significantly lower cost of living.

The job market is modest but stable, with approximately 126 jobs for Personal Trainers in the metro area. However, the 10-year job growth projection is a healthy 14%, which outpaces the national average for many professions. This growth is driven by an aging population seeking mobility and strength training, and a continued post-pandemic focus on health.

Here’s how salary breaks down by experience level in our area. Note that these are local estimates based on industry trends and job postings, as detailed data for such a specific role in a small metro is limited.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Moore, OK)	Typical Setting
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$32,000 - $38,000	Large chain gyms (Anytime Fitness, Planet Fitness), part-time roles
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$42,000 - $48,000	Established fitness studios, corporate wellness, semi-private studios
Senior (5-10 years)	$50,000 - $65,000	Specialized studios (pilates, corrective exercise), senior fitness programs
Expert (10+ years)	$65,000+	Business owner, high-end private clientele, corporate wellness director

Insider Tip: In Moore, your income is heavily dependent on your ability to build a client base within the community. Trainers who get involved with local events, partner with medical offices, and build a strong social media presence specific to the Moore/South OKC area tend to reach the higher end of these ranges faster.

Compared to other Oklahoma cities:

• Oklahoma City: Median salary is closer to $48,500, but the cost of living and competition are higher.
• Tulsa: Similar to OKC, with a median around $47,000. The market is larger but more saturated.
• Norman: Very similar to Moore, with a median salary of $45,000, heavily influenced by the university and student population.

Moore offers a lower barrier to entry for living expenses, which can be an advantage for trainers starting their careers or those looking to build a business with lower overhead.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get practical. A median salary of $45,419 translates to a monthly take-home pay of approximately $2,900 - $3,100 after taxes (federal, FICA, and Oklahoma state tax of 4.75%). This is a realistic estimate for a single filer.

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Moore is $773/month. The Cost of Living Index for Moore is 91.0, meaning it's 9% cheaper than the national average (100).

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a Personal Trainer earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$3,000	After taxes
Rent (1BR)	$773	Average for a safe area
Utilities	$150	Electricity, water, internet (Comcast/AT&T)
Groceries	$300	For one person
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Moore is car-dependent; public transport is limited
Gas & Maintenance	$150	Commuting to gyms or clients' homes
Health Insurance	$250	If not provided by employer (common for trainers)
Miscellaneous (Food, Fun, Savings)	$977	This is where you have flexibility

Can they afford to buy a home? The median home price in Moore is approximately $190,000 - $220,000. With a 10% down payment ($19,000 - $22,000), a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would be around $1,200 - $1,400. Given the budget above, this is tight but possible for a mid-level trainer, especially with dual income. It’s less feasible for an entry-level trainer living alone. The stable 14% job growth suggests long-term viability for building equity.

Insider Tip: Many trainers in Moore live in adjacent neighborhoods like south Oklahoma City (73159, 73170) or Norman to access a broader client base while benefiting from similar housing costs. The commute is short (15-25 minutes).

Where the Jobs Are: Moore's Major Employers

Moore’s fitness job market is dominated by a mix of national chains, local boutiques, and corporate wellness programs. Here are the key players:

1. Anytime Fitness (Multiple Locations): The largest employer of trainers in Moore. They offer a membership-based model focused on small-group training and one-on-one sessions. They hire frequently and provide a steady base salary plus commission on personal training packages.
2. Planet Fitness (South I-35 & SE 19th St): Known for its low-cost, high-volume model. Trainers here often focus on equipment orientations and generating leads for personal training. It’s a good place to gain experience but typically offers lower base pay with higher volume potential.
3. SNAP Fitness (Moore Central): Another 24/7 gym franchise that relies on a mix of independent trainers and staff trainers. They often have a more independent contractor model, which means you set your own rates but also handle all your own booking and marketing.
4. Moore Community Hospital (Wellness Programs): While not a traditional gym, Moore Community Hospital and nearby OU Health (Moore campus) offer employee wellness programs and sometimes hire trainers for senior fitness or cardiac rehab. These are competitive, salaried positions.
5. Local Boutique Studios (e.g., F45, Yoga Six): While Moore itself has fewer, the surrounding South OKC area (a 10-minute drive) has a growing number of HIIT and yoga studios. These often hire trainers on a per-class basis, which can supplement income from a gym job.
6. Corporate Wellness: Larger employers in the metro, such as Devon Energy (in OKC, but serving employees from Moore) or Tinker Air Force Base (a major employer just north of Moore), have wellness coordinators who contract with local trainers for onsite classes.
7. Independent/Online Training: A significant and growing segment. Many successful Moore trainers run their own businesses, training clients in parks (like Moore Regional Park) or their own garage gyms, and supplement with online coaching.

Hiring Trends: There is a growing demand for trainers specializing in senior fitness and post-rehabilitation work. With an aging population in Moore, trainers who have a certification in older adult fitness (e.g., NASM Senior Fitness) have a distinct advantage. Also, trainers proficient in nutrition coaching (with a separate certification) are able to upsell their services more effectively.

Getting Licensed in OK

Oklahoma does not have a state-mandated license for personal trainers. However, reputable gyms and clients expect certification from a nationally accredited organization. The most recognized and accepted in Moore are:

• NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine): Highly regarded, especially for corrective exercise.
• ACE (American Council on Exercise): Popular for general fitness and group instruction.
• ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine): Gold standard for clinical and performance settings.
• NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association): Ideal for trainers aiming to work with athletes.

Costs & Timeline:

• Certification Exam: $599 - $799 for the exam and study materials (prices vary by provider and package).
• CPR/AED Certification: Required by virtually all employers. Cost: $75 - $125 (American Red Cross or AHA). Valid for 2 years.
• Timeline: From start to certification, expect 3-6 months. This allows for self-study (200-300 hours) and scheduling the exam. Many gyms in Moore will hire you with a certification in progress, but you must be certified before training clients alone.

Insider Tip: Moore employers heavily favor NASM and ACE. When applying, highlight your specialty (e.g., "NASM-CPT with a focus on functional training for older adults"). There is no state continuing education requirement, but maintaining your NCCA-accredited certification requires CEUs every 2 years.

Best Neighborhoods for Personal Trainers

Living in the right area can reduce commute time and connect you with your target clientele. Here are the best options:

1. Central Moore (73160): The heart of the city. Close to the Moore Medical Center, major gyms (Anytime, Planet Fitness), and residential areas. Best for trainers who work at established gyms and want a short commute. Rent for a 1BR: $750 - $850/month.
2. South Moore (73170): This is where many young professionals and families live. It's newer, safer, and has easy access to I-35. This area attracts clients who can afford semi-private training. Rent for a 1BR: $800 - $950/month.
3. East Moore (73165): More affordable, with a mix of older and newer homes. Closer to the border with Norman, which expands your potential client base. Commutes to central Moore gyms are easy via 4th Street. Rent for a 1BR: $700 - $800/month.
4. West Moore (73160): Adjacent to the popular Sooner Fashion Mall area and newer subdivisions. A good blend of convenience and quiet residential living. Rent for a 1BR: $750 - $850/month.
5. Adjacent South OKC (73159, 73170): While not Moore, living here (a 5-15 minute drive) puts you in a larger population center with more affluent neighborhoods, which is ideal for building a private client roster. Rent is similar: $800 - $1,000/month for a 1BR.

Insider Tip: If you plan to train clients in their homes, South Moore and South OKC offer the highest concentration of middle-to-upper-income households, which translates to higher private training rates.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A career in personal training in Moore has multiple pathways. The 14% job growth indicates that specialization is key to advancing beyond the median salary.

Specialty Premiums (Approximate Income Boost):

• Corrective Exercise (NASM-CES): +10-15%. In demand for clients with chronic pain or post-injury.
• Senior Fitness (ACE-Senior): +10-20%. Critical for the local demographic.
• Nutrition Coaching (e.g., Precision Nutrition): +15-25%. Allows you to offer integrated packages.
• Youth Athlete Training: +10-15%. Tapping into Moore's high school sports scene (Moore Lions, etc.).

Advancement Paths:

1. Gym Manager/Director: Moving from trainer to management at a chain like Anytime Fitness. Salary range: $55,000 - $70,000.
2. Wellness Coordinator: For corporate or hospital settings. Requires more business/program development skills. Salary range: $50,000 - $65,000.
3. Business Owner: Opening your own facility (e.g., a semi-private studio) or scaling an online coaching business. Income potential is the highest but carries the most risk.

10-Year Outlook: The 14% growth suggests continued demand. The trainers who will thrive are those who build a brand within Moore's community—partnering with local doctors, physical therapists, and running workshops at community centers like the Moore Norman Technology Center. The rise of telehealth and online training will also allow Moore-based trainers to serve clients globally, increasing income potential regardless of the local market size.

The Verdict: Is Moore Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary of $45,419 goes much further here than in larger cities. The 91.0 COL index is a major advantage.	Limited Market Size: With only 126 jobs in the metro, competition for the best positions is real. You must actively network.
Stable Job Growth: 14% growth over 10 years is strong, offering long-term security.	Car-Dependent: You need a reliable vehicle to get to clients' homes or different gym locations. Public transport is minimal.
Tight-Knit Community: It’s easier to build a reputation and client base through local word-of-mouth in a smaller city.	Lower Ceiling (Initially): Starting salaries are modest. You need to specialize or go independent to significantly exceed the median.
Proximity to OKC: You have access to a larger metro area for education, networking, and supplemental work without the high cost of living.	Fewer "High-End" Clients: The ultra-affluent market is smaller than in OKC or Tulsa itself.

Final Recommendation: Moore is an excellent choice for a Personal Trainer who values stability, a lower cost of living, and a community-focused career. It’s ideal for those just starting out (thanks to lower living expenses) or for mid-career trainers who want to build a sustainable business with lower overhead. It’s less ideal for trainers seeking a fast-paced, high-income luxury market immediately. If you are willing to specialize (especially in senior fitness or corrective exercise) and engage with the local community, you can build a very rewarding and financially stable career here.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car to be a Personal Trainer in Moore?
Yes, absolutely. Moore is a sprawling suburban city, and most gyms and client homes are spread out. While you can find clients in your immediate neighborhood, having a car gives you access to the entire metro area for both work and continuing education opportunities.

2. How does the pay structure work at big gyms vs. private training?
At chains like Anytime Fitness, you typically get a base hourly wage (often $15-$20/hr) plus commission (15-30%) on personal training packages you sell. As an independent trainer, you set your own rates (typically $50-$125/session in Moore), but you pay for your own space, insurance, and marketing. Many trainers start at a gym to build a client list, then transition to private training.

3. What’s the biggest challenge for Personal Trainers in Moore?
Building a consistent client roster. With a population of ~63,045, the market is not as deep as a major city. You must be proactive. Your best tools are: networking with doctors at Moore Medical Center, offering free workshops at the Moore Recreation Center, and using Instagram/Facebook to target local residents (use hashtags like #MooreOKFitness).

4. Is certification alone enough to get hired?
In Moore, yes. Most gyms will hire you with a valid NCCA-accredited certification and CPR/AED. However, having a specialty (like senior fitness) or a nutrition certification will make you a more attractive candidate and allow you to command a higher rate from day one.

5. Can I make a comfortable living as a trainer in Moore?
Yes, but it requires strategy. The median salary of $45,419 is comfortable given the low rent ($773/month). To live more comfortably (e.g., buy a home, save aggressively), you need to progress beyond the median. This is achieved by specializing, moving into management, building a private client base, or adding online coaching to your income streams. The 14% job growth means there will be more opportunities in the coming years.