How much does a Exercise Physiologist make?
Exercise physiologists play a key role in helping people improve their health through physical activity. They work in many settings, including hospitals, clinics, and fitness centers. The average yearly salary for an exercise physiologist is around $57,789. This means that most earn between $34,000 and $106,000 each year. The exact salary can depend on factors like experience, education, and location.
The salary range for exercise physiologists shows a clear path for growth. Entry-level positions start at about $34,000. With more experience, salaries can rise to $60,000 or more. Those with advanced degrees or specialized skills often earn the highest salaries. For example, the top 10% of earners make over $99,000 a year. This range offers good opportunities for those willing to invest in their career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Exercise Physiologist?

-
Portland, OR
Average Salary: $70,749
In Portland, professionals in health and wellness find a vibrant community. The city's focus on outdoor activities makes it a great place for those in health professions. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and Providence Health offer many opportunities.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Portland, OR
-
Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $68,890
Minneapolis offers a strong healthcare sector with many job openings. The city's commitment to health and wellness creates a supportive environment. Employers like Allina Health and HealthPartners provide excellent career paths.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Minneapolis, MN
-
Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $68,647
Seattle's health industry is thriving, with many opportunities for those in wellness. The city's active lifestyle attracts health professionals. Companies such as Virginia Mason and Swedish Health Services offer promising roles.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Seattle, WA
-
Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $64,067
Chicago's large healthcare system provides numerous job opportunities. The city's diverse population makes it a dynamic place for health professionals. Major employers like Northwestern Medicine and Rush University Medical Center are prominent.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Chicago, IL
-
Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $60,080
Pittsburgh offers a growing healthcare sector with many job openings. The city's focus on health and wellness creates a supportive environment. Companies like UPMC and Highmark Health provide excellent career paths.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Pittsburgh, PA
-
San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $55,010
San Diego's sunny climate and active lifestyle make it a great place for health professionals. The city's strong healthcare system offers many opportunities. Employers like Scripps Health and Kaiser Permanente provide promising roles.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in San Diego, CA
-
Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $54,767
Columbia offers a supportive environment for health professionals. The city's focus on education and health creates many job opportunities. Institutions like MU Health Care provide excellent career paths.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $54,725
Rochester is known for its strong healthcare system. The city offers many job opportunities for those in health professions. Mayo Clinic is a prominent employer in the area.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Rochester, MN
-
Houston, TX
Average Salary: $53,759
Houston's large healthcare sector provides numerous job opportunities. The city's diverse population makes it a dynamic place for health professionals. Employers like Houston Methodist and Baylor College of Medicine offer promising roles.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Houston, TX
-
Tucson, AZ
Average Salary: $53,565
Tucson offers a growing healthcare sector with many job openings. The city's focus on health and wellness creates a supportive environment. Employers like Banner Health and Carondelet Health Network provide excellent career paths.
Find Exercise Physiologist jobs in Tucson, AZ
What are the best companies a Exercise Physiologist can work for?

-
Sutter Health
Average Salary: $100,847
Sutter Health offers rewarding positions for Exercise Physiologists in California. They focus on patient wellness and rehabilitation. Locations include Northern and Southern California.
-
Discover Strength
Average Salary: $64,696
Discover Strength provides Exercise Physiologist jobs with a focus on fitness and rehabilitation. They operate in various locations across the United States, emphasizing personalized care.
-
UPMC
Average Salary: $62,936
UPMC offers Exercise Physiologist positions in Pennsylvania and Maryland. They focus on patient care and rehabilitation, providing a supportive work environment.
-
Performance Optimal Health
Average Salary: $62,500
Performance Optimal Health provides Exercise Physiologist jobs with a focus on sports medicine and rehabilitation. They operate in several locations in the United States, emphasizing performance enhancement.
-
Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $61,983
Advocate Aurora Health offers Exercise Physiologist positions in Illinois and Wisconsin. They focus on patient wellness and rehabilitation, providing a comprehensive healthcare experience.
-
Kelsey-Seybold Clinic
Average Salary: $61,222
Kelsey-Seybold Clinic provides Exercise Physiologist jobs with a focus on health and wellness. They operate in Houston, Texas, offering a collaborative work environment.
-
Atrium Health
Average Salary: $59,381
Atrium Health offers Exercise Physiologist positions in North Carolina and South Carolina. They focus on patient care and rehabilitation, providing a supportive work environment.
-
CommonSpirit Health
Average Salary: $58,122
CommonSpirit Health provides Exercise Physiologist jobs with a focus on patient wellness and rehabilitation. They operate in multiple states, emphasizing compassionate care.
-
Intermountain Health
Average Salary: $57,819
Intermountain Health offers Exercise Physiologist positions in Utah and Idaho. They focus on patient care and rehabilitation, providing a supportive work environment.
-
Banner Health
Average Salary: $57,352
Banner Health provides Exercise Physiologist jobs with a focus on patient wellness and rehabilitation. They operate in several states, emphasizing quality care.
How to earn more as a Exercise Physiologist?
Becoming an Exercise Physiologist offers a rewarding career path. To earn more, consider these key factors. First, gaining specialized certifications can boost earning potential. Certifications in areas like cardiac rehabilitation or sports nutrition can make an individual more attractive to employers. Second, gaining experience in diverse settings such as hospitals, fitness centers, or research labs can enhance skills and marketability.
Additionally, pursuing advanced education can lead to higher-paying positions. A master's or doctoral degree in exercise physiology or a related field can open doors to roles such as research scientists or clinical directors. Networking with professionals in the field can also lead to job opportunities that offer higher salaries. Lastly, staying updated with the latest research and trends in exercise science can make an individual more valuable to employers. Continuous learning and professional development can lead to promotions and higher pay. Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Obtain specialized certifications
- Gain experience in various settings
- Pursue advanced education
- Network with industry professionals
- Stay updated with current research