How much does a Exercise Physiologist make?
An exercise physiologist can expect to earn a competitive salary. On average, they make about $59,576 per year. This role involves helping people improve their physical health through exercise and fitness programs. Many factors can influence salary, such as experience, education, and location.
The pay can vary significantly depending on where an exercise physiologist works. Some earn less, while others make more. The data shows a wide range, from around $36,000 to over $100,000 a year. Most people in this field fall somewhere in the middle, earning between $48,000 and $72,000 annually. With the right experience and skills, an exercise physiologist can expect their salary to grow over time.
What are the highest paying cities for a Exercise Physiologist?

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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $87,560
In Portland, those in the field of physical health can find great opportunities. The city's focus on wellness makes it a prime place to work. Companies like Kaiser Permanente offer rewarding roles.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $81,311
Rochester stands out for health professionals. The city's renowned medical institutions provide a dynamic environment. Mayo Clinic, a major employer, often hires for various health roles.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $69,494
Minneapolis offers a bustling job market for health experts. The city's health-focused culture makes it ideal for those in the field. Employers like Park Nicollet look for skilled professionals.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $69,041
Seattle is a vibrant city for health professionals. The area's emphasis on fitness creates many opportunities. Places like Swedish Medical Center regularly seek qualified candidates.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $64,373
Chicago's large population offers many jobs for health experts. The city's health services industry is robust. Organizations like Northwestern Medicine often have openings.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $62,629
Baltimore provides a mix of urban and community settings for health workers. The city's diverse healthcare needs create many opportunities. Johns Hopkins Medicine frequently hires for health roles.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $62,314
Pittsburgh offers a mix of industrial and health opportunities. The city's healthcare sector is growing. Companies like UPMC often look for skilled professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $58,315
San Diego's sunny climate and health focus make it a great place for professionals. The area's health industry is strong. Scripps Health often has positions available.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $57,683
Houston's large market means many job opportunities for health experts. The city's healthcare sector is vast. Companies like Baylor Scott & White Health frequently seek new talent.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $57,674
Charlotte offers a growing job market for health professionals. The city's expanding healthcare needs create many openings. Atrium Health often hires for various roles.
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What are the best companies a Exercise Physiologist can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $106,453
Sutter Health is a leading health system in California. They offer many opportunities for Exercise Physiologists. They operate in Northern California. They focus on making healthcare more accessible.
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Briotix Health
Average Salary: $68,796
Briotix Health is a company that uses technology to help people with cardiac care. They have Exercise Physiologists in their clinics. They operate nationwide.
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Optum
Average Salary: $66,999
Optum is a part of UnitedHealth Group. They provide health services. Exercise Physiologists work in their wellness programs. They have locations all over the United States.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $62,704
UPMC is one of the largest health systems in the U.S. They have Exercise Physiologists in their fitness centers and rehabilitation programs. They operate in Pennsylvania and other states.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $62,233
Advocate Aurora Health is one of the top health systems in the country. They offer many Exercise Physiologist jobs. They work in Illinois and Wisconsin.
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Discover Strength
Average Salary: $61,547
Discover Strength focuses on rehabilitation and fitness. They have Exercise Physiologists in their centers. They operate in several states.
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Intermountain Health
Average Salary: $60,626
Intermountain Health provides health care in Utah and Idaho. They have Exercise Physiologists in their wellness programs. They focus on community health.
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Northwestern Medicine
Average Salary: $60,403
Northwestern Medicine is a large health system in Illinois. They have Exercise Physiologists in their wellness centers. They focus on advanced medical care.
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Johns Hopkins Health System
Average Salary: $60,075
Johns Hopkins is a leading health system in Maryland. They offer Exercise Physiologist jobs in their fitness centers. They focus on research and medical care.
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Atrium Health
Average Salary: $59,634
Atrium Health is a large health system in North Carolina. They have Exercise Physiologists in their wellness programs. They focus on patient care and community health.
How to earn more as a Exercise Physiologist?
A career as an Exercise Physiologist offers promising opportunities for growth and higher earnings. By leveraging various strategies, professionals in this field can boost their income and enhance job satisfaction. Investing in additional certifications and specializations often leads to increased earnings. For instance, gaining certifications in areas such as cardiac rehabilitation or sports performance can make an Exercise Physiologist more marketable and attractive to potential employers.
Location plays a significant role in salary potential. Urban areas and regions with high healthcare demand typically offer higher wages. Exercise Physiologists working in metropolitan areas or regions with limited healthcare options may find better-paying positions. Employers in these areas often seek qualified professionals to meet the community's health needs. Collaborating with a diverse range of clients can also help in earning more. Working with professional athletes, elderly populations, and individuals with chronic conditions can open up higher-paying opportunities. Each client group brings unique challenges and compensations, allowing for a broader skill set and increased earnings. Obtaining a master's or doctoral degree can also lead to higher salaries. Advanced degrees open doors to leadership roles and specialized positions, both of which come with higher pay. Engaging in continuous professional development through workshops, seminars, and conferences can also keep skills sharp and knowledge current.
Building a strong professional network can lead to higher-paying job opportunities. Networking with other healthcare professionals, attending industry events, and joining professional organizations can lead to job leads and collaborations. A robust network can provide insider information on job openings and industry trends that can influence earning potential. Finally, demonstrating excellence in patient care and outcomes can lead to bonuses and raises. Consistent documentation of successful patient progress and innovative treatment plans can set an Exercise Physiologist apart from their peers.
Maximizing earning potential as an Exercise Physiologist involves a combination of education, location, specialization, networking, and performance excellence. By focusing on these areas, professionals can enhance their career prospects and achieve higher salaries.
- Gain additional certifications and specializations.
- Consider working in high-demand areas or urban settings.
- Seek opportunities with diverse client groups.
- Pursue advanced degrees to qualify for leadership roles.
- Build a strong professional network to find higher-paying opportunities.



