How much does a Exercise Physiologist make?
Exercise physiologists help people improve their health through exercise. This job requires strong skills in understanding how the body works and how to plan exercise programs. A person in this role may work in hospitals, fitness centers, or other health facilities.
The average yearly salary for an exercise physiologist is around $58,296. Salaries can vary based on experience and location. New professionals may start with a salary on the lower end, while experienced ones can earn more. For example, those in the top 10% earn over $90,000 a year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Exercise Physiologist?

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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $89,611
In Portland, OR, professionals in this field work closely with top healthcare providers to improve patient health through tailored exercise programs. Mayo Clinic and Kaiser Permanente offer excellent opportunities for growth and advancement.
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Rochester, MN
Average Salary: $80,727
Rochester, MN, presents a thriving environment for those in this profession, with the Mayo Clinic at the forefront. This city values health and wellness, providing numerous chances to make a meaningful impact.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $69,152
Minneapolis, MN, is home to various health institutions where experts help patients lead healthier lives. Companies like HealthPartners and Park Nicollet are leaders in this industry, offering diverse opportunities.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $68,793
Seattle, WA, offers a dynamic setting for professionals to excel in health and exercise. With Kaiser Permanente and Virginia Mason providing excellent platforms, the city supports a healthy lifestyle.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $63,289
In Chicago, IL, those in this profession find great support from leading healthcare companies. Northwestern Medicine and Rush University Medical Center are prominent employers, offering excellent career growth.
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Pittsburgh, PA
Average Salary: $61,617
Pittsburgh, PA, provides a robust environment for health experts to thrive. UPMC and Allegheny Health Network are key employers, offering many opportunities for professional development.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $57,025
Charlotte, NC, is a city that values health and wellness, with Atrium Health and Novant Health being top employers. Professionals here play a vital role in community health.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $56,792
Phoenix, AZ, offers a warm and welcoming environment for health professionals. Banner Health and Dignity Health provide excellent opportunities for those looking to make a difference.
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Houston, TX
Average Salary: $56,020
Houston, TX, is a bustling city with many opportunities for health experts. The presence of major hospitals like Houston Methodist and Baylor College of Medicine creates a dynamic work setting.
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Columbia, MO
Average Salary: $55,129
Columbia, MO, supports professionals dedicated to health and fitness. The University of Missouri Health Care is a key employer, providing excellent platforms for growth and innovation.
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What are the best companies a Exercise Physiologist can work for?

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Sutter Health
Average Salary: $106,191
Sutter Health offers rewarding positions for Exercise Physiologists. They work across a network of hospitals and clinics in Northern California. Their role involves creating and managing exercise programs for patients. They focus on improving health and preventing disease.
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Mayo Clinic
Average Salary: $87,012
At Mayo Clinic, Exercise Physiologists develop personalized fitness plans for patients. They are part of a prestigious medical team known for research and education. Mayo Clinic operates in Minnesota, Florida, and Arizona, providing many opportunities for professional growth.
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Briotix Health
Average Salary: $69,133
Briotix Health focuses on health optimization through exercise. They hire Exercise Physiologists to create fitness plans for clients. Based in New York, they offer innovative programs and a supportive work environment.
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Discover Strength
Average Salary: $63,638
Discover Strength provides fitness services for people with special needs. They seek Exercise Physiologists to design and deliver exercise programs. They are located in several states, offering diverse work settings.
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UPMC
Average Salary: $62,779
UPMC offers a comprehensive healthcare system where Exercise Physiologists help patients with cardiac rehabilitation. They are based in Pennsylvania and New York, providing a variety of clinical experiences.
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Advocate Aurora Health
Average Salary: $62,035
Advocate Aurora Health employs Exercise Physiologists to assist in rehabilitation programs. They operate in Illinois and Wisconsin, offering a range of opportunities for professional development.
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Johns Hopkins Health System
Average Salary: $60,075
Johns Hopkins Health System hires Exercise Physiologists to work in their cutting-edge facilities. They are located in Maryland, offering access to top medical research and education.
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Northwestern Medicine
Average Salary: $59,944
Northwestern Medicine focuses on innovative healthcare. They offer Exercise Physiologists roles in fitness and rehabilitation. They are based in Illinois, providing a collaborative work environment.
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Atrium Health
Average Salary: $59,475
Atrium Health provides a variety of healthcare services where Exercise Physiologists play a key role. They operate in North Carolina and South Carolina, offering diverse healthcare settings.
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Intermountain Health
Average Salary: $58,755
Intermountain Health offers Exercise Physiologists the chance to help patients improve their health through exercise. They operate in Utah, Idaho, Nevada, and Colorado, providing a range of healthcare experiences.
How to earn more as a Exercise Physiologist?
An Exercise Physiologist can boost earnings through several key factors. First, gaining more experience in the field opens doors to higher-paying positions. Hospitals and sports teams often pay more for seasoned professionals. A strong educational background also plays a role. Earning advanced degrees or certifications can set an Exercise Physiologist apart from others.
Networking within the industry leads to better opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can connect an Exercise Physiologist with potential employers. Specializing in a niche area, such as cardiac rehabilitation or athletic performance, can also command higher pay. Keeping skills up to date with the latest research and technologies makes an Exercise Physiologist more valuable. These steps can lead to greater financial rewards in the field.
Here are some steps to consider for earning more:
- Gain more experience in the field.
- Earn advanced degrees or certifications.
- Network within the industry.
- Specialize in a niche area.
- Stay updated with the latest research and technologies.



