How much does a Exercise Physiologist make?
Exercise physiologists help people improve their health through physical activity. Their work involves creating exercise programs and helping patients follow them. This rewarding job often pays well, with an average yearly salary of around $61,248. Some physiologists make more, and others make less, depending on several factors.
Here are some average salaries at different points in a career:
- Bottom 10% earn less than $37,321
- Bottom 25% earn between $37,321 and $50,172
- Middle 50% earn between $50,172 and $69,448
- Top 25% earn between $69,448 and $108,000
What are the highest paying cities for a Exercise Physiologist?

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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $86,864
In Rochester, you can work in a top-tier healthcare environment. Mayo Clinic offers numerous opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in medicine. It’s a place where you can grow your skills and impact many lives.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $83,224
Portland is known for its health-conscious community. At Kaiser Permanente, you will focus on improving the well-being of many. The city’s vibrant lifestyle supports a healthy work-life balance.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $69,592
Minneapolis has a strong focus on health and wellness. At Park Nicollet, you will have the chance to work in state-of-the-art facilities. The city’s diverse population allows for a wide range of professional experiences.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $67,909
Seattle offers a dynamic work environment. At Swedish Medical Center, you will be part of a team dedicated to excellence in healthcare. The city’s tech-savvy population values fitness and wellness.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $65,537
San Diego’s warm climate makes it an ideal place to work outdoors. At Scripps Health, you can collaborate with top professionals. The city’s active lifestyle supports a thriving health industry.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $64,686
Chicago is a hub for healthcare innovation. At Rush University Medical Center, you will work with some of the best professionals. The city’s rich culture offers many opportunities for personal and professional growth.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $62,306
Houston offers a diverse patient population. At Baylor College of Medicine, you can work on cutting-edge research. The city’s growth in healthcare provides many job opportunities and advancement.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $62,256
Baltimore is a center for medical research and education. At Johns Hopkins Medicine, you will have access to top-tier resources. The city’s history in healthcare creates a rich learning environment.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $61,384
Pittsburgh offers a strong healthcare system. At UPMC, you will work with leading specialists. The city’s focus on health and wellness makes it a great place for professional development.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $60,586
Boston is home to some of the best medical institutions. At Massachusetts General Hospital, you can collaborate with top experts. The city’s academic environment offers many opportunities for research and learning.
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What are the best companies a Exercise Physiologist can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $105,876
Sutter Health offers rewarding roles for Exercise Physiologists in Northern California. They work in various locations, including Sacramento, San Francisco, and the Bay Area, providing patient-centered care.
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MarinHealth
Average Salary: $83,170
MarinHealth is based in Marin County, California. Exercise Physiologists here support patients in achieving their fitness goals. They operate in locations such as Greenbrae.
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Briotix Health
Average Salary: $70,895
Briotix Health, with facilities in the Boston area, provides Exercise Physiologists with opportunities to develop rehabilitation programs. Their work improves patient health and recovery.
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Optum
Average Salary: $68,796
Optum is a large organization offering Exercise Physiologist positions across the United States. They focus on health and wellness, operating in cities like Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, and others.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $63,983
UPMC, based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, offers Exercise Physiologists the chance to work in hospitals and clinics. They focus on patient care and rehabilitation, operating in locations throughout Pennsylvania and Western New York.
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Providence
Average Salary: $63,482
Providence provides Exercise Physiologists with roles in Oregon, California, and Washington. They emphasize holistic care and work in numerous facilities, including hospitals and outpatient centers.
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CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region
Average Salary: $62,629
CommonSpirit Health Mountain Region operates in Colorado, Kansas, and other states. They focus on community health and offer Exercise Physiologists positions in urban and rural settings.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $62,513
Advocate Aurora Health, based in Illinois and Wisconsin, offers Exercise Physiologists roles in large hospitals and outpatient clinics. They aim to improve patient health through fitness programs.
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Intermountain Health Foundation
Average Salary: $61,721
Intermountain Health Foundation is in Utah and Idaho, offering Exercise Physiologists roles in various healthcare settings. They focus on wellness and patient education.
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MedStar Health
Average Salary: $61,446
MedStar Health operates in Maryland and Washington, D.C. Exercise Physiologists here work in hospitals and wellness centers, focusing on patient care and rehabilitation.
How to earn more as a Exercise Physiologist?
An Exercise Physiologist can boost their earnings by focusing on key areas that demand specific skills and expertise. Enhancing skills often leads to higher compensation. Here are strategies to consider:
First, specialize in a niche area such as cardiac rehabilitation, sports performance, or pediatric exercise physiology. Specialization can make an individual more valuable to employers. Second, obtaining certifications from recognized bodies can increase earning potential. For example, credentials like Certified Exercise Physiologist (CEP) or Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) are highly regarded. Third, gaining experience in multiple healthcare settings can lead to better job opportunities and salaries. Working in hospitals, clinics, or sports facilities broadens expertise and marketability.
Pursue advanced degrees to further career prospects and salaries. A master’s or doctoral degree in exercise physiology, kinesiology, or a related field can lead to higher-paying positions. Networking within the industry also plays a crucial role. Building relationships with other professionals can open doors to job opportunities that pay more. Being proactive in seeking out these factors can lead to increased earnings as an Exercise Physiologist.
Consider these strategies to enhance income:
- Specialize in a niche area of exercise physiology.
- Obtain relevant certifications from recognized organizations.
- Gain experience in various healthcare settings.
- Pursue advanced degrees in exercise physiology or kinesiology.
- Network with other professionals in the industry.



