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Salary

How much does a Physical Therapist make?

The average salary for a Physical Therapist is $106,409 per year in the US.

Physical Therapists play a vital role in helping people recover from injuries and manage pain. They earn a competitive salary that reflects their important work. The average yearly salary for Physical Therapists is about $106,409. This is a good income for those in the healthcare field.

Salary can vary based on experience and location. Physical Therapists with more experience often earn higher salaries. Here are some salary ranges to consider:

  • The lowest 10% earn about $41,250 or less.
  • The next 20% earn between $53,682 and $78,545.
  • The middle 30% earn from $78,545 to $115,841.
  • The next 20% earn between $115,841 and $140,705.
  • The highest 10% earn over $140,705 a year.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Physical Therapist?

Physical Therapists can find top-paying jobs in various cities across the U.S. San Jose, CA, leads with an average salary of $135,137. Next, Sacramento, CA, offers $133,071. Colorado Springs, CO, and Modesto, CA, follow closely with salaries around $132,000. These cities present great opportunities for those seeking higher compensation. Cities like San Francisco, CA, and Ann Arbor, MI, also offer attractive salaries for Physical Therapists. San Francisco, CA, pays $122,858 on average, while Ann Arbor, MI, offers around $121,919. San Diego, CA, Chicago, IL, Denver, CO, and Santa Rosa, CA, provide competitive wages, making them ideal places for job seekers aiming for higher earnings.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Physical Therapist jobs, highlighting San Jose, CA with the highest at $135,137 and Santa Rosa, CA with the lowest at $116,127.
  1. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $135,137
    In San Jose, a thriving tech hub, healthcare facilities are always in need of skilled professionals. Companies like Kaiser Permanente and Sutter Health offer many opportunities for growth. The city’s diverse population means varied cases, enriching professional experience.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in San Jose, CA


  2. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $133,071
    Sacramento, the state capital, is known for its excellent healthcare facilities. Capital Region Medical Center and Kaiser Permanente provide a strong foundation for career development. The city's supportive environment encourages professional growth.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in Sacramento, CA


  3. Colorado Springs, CO
    Average Salary: $131,923
    Colorado Springs offers a vibrant community and a healthy lifestyle. At places like Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, therapists enjoy a collaborative work environment. The natural beauty of the area enhances both work and personal life.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in Colorado Springs, CO


  4. Modesto, CA
    Average Salary: $126,321
    Modesto, a gateway to the Central Valley, has a growing demand for healthcare services. With facilities like Memorial Medical Center, professionals can expect a supportive community. The city’s laid-back vibe makes it a great place to work and live.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in Modesto, CA


  5. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $122,858
    San Francisco, a city of innovation and diversity, offers numerous opportunities in renowned healthcare institutions. At UCSF Health and UCSF Medical Center, therapists can expect challenging and rewarding work. The city’s cultural richness provides a dynamic backdrop for a fulfilling career.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  6. Ann Arbor, MI
    Average Salary: $121,919
    Ann Arbor, home to the University of Michigan, boasts top-tier healthcare facilities. At Michigan Medicine, professionals enjoy a collaborative atmosphere. The city's academic environment fosters continuous learning and growth.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in Ann Arbor, MI


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $119,173
    San Diego’s mild climate and beautiful beaches make it an attractive place for therapists. At Scripps Health and Rady Children’s Hospital, opportunities for career advancement abound. The city’s vibrant culture enhances the quality of life.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Chicago, IL
    Average Salary: $117,802
    Chicago, a bustling metropolis, offers a wealth of opportunities in healthcare. At Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Rush University Medical Center, professionals can expect dynamic work environments. The city’s diverse population ensures varied and enriching experiences.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in Chicago, IL


  9. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $116,640
    Denver, known for its vibrant arts scene and outdoor activities, provides a perfect balance for work and life. At The Medical Center of Aurora and UCHealth, therapists enjoy a supportive community. The city’s elevation offers unique health considerations for patients.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in Denver, CO


  10. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $116,127
    Santa Rosa, nestled in wine country, offers a serene environment for healthcare professionals. At Sutter Santa Rosa Regional Hospital, therapists work in a supportive setting. The city’s beautiful landscapes provide a refreshing backdrop to daily work.
    Find Physical Therapist jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

What are the best companies a Physical Therapist can work for?

For those looking for rewarding roles as Physical Therapists, Tender Touch Therapy offers a top salary at $189,565. Another excellent choice is Nurturing Home Health Care, with an average pay of $183,400 annually. Helping U Homecare also stands out, providing a competitive salary of $165,000 per year. Choosing a company with a strong financial commitment to its staff can enhance job satisfaction and career growth. Central Coast Home Health & Hospice and EVERGREEN CARE CENTER offer salaries over $140,000, making them solid options too. BrightStar Care, All About Kids, and Health Link Home Health Agency all provide salaries above $130,000, ensuring a good quality of life. BAYADA Home Health Care and Amedisys, though lower on the list, still offer respectable pay, starting at over $125,000.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Physical Therapist jobs, highlighting Tender Touch Therapy with the highest at $189,565 and Amedisys with the lowest at $125,917.
  1. Tender Touch Therapy
    Average Salary: $189,565
    Tender Touch Therapy offers rewarding opportunities for Physical Therapists in various settings across the United States. With a focus on patient care, they provide comprehensive rehabilitation services in hospitals, clinics, and home health. Their commitment to quality care ensures therapists have ample opportunities to develop and grow in their careers.


  2. Nurturing Home Health Care
    Average Salary: $183,400
    Nurturing Home Health Care is a leading provider of home health services, offering Physical Therapists the chance to work closely with patients in the comfort of their homes. They serve a wide range of locations across several states, ensuring therapists have diverse experiences. Their patient-focused approach makes it an excellent place for those who value personalized care.


  3. Helping U Homecare
    Average Salary: $165,000
    Helping U Homecare provides comprehensive home health services, allowing Physical Therapists to make a significant impact on patient lives. Operating in various regions, they offer flexible schedules and a supportive work environment. They prioritize the well-being of both patients and staff, making it a great choice for dedicated professionals.


  4. Central Coast Home Health & Hospice
    Average Salary: $147,182
    Central Coast Home Health & Hospice offers Physical Therapists the opportunity to work in a compassionate and supportive environment. They serve communities along the Central Coast, providing essential services to patients in their homes. The organization values teamwork and professional growth, making it an ideal place for therapists looking to advance their careers.


  5. EVERGREEN CARE CENTER
    Average Salary: $146,292
    EVERGREEN CARE CENTER provides Physical Therapists with a variety of opportunities in both home health and clinical settings. They operate in several states, offering competitive salaries and a collaborative atmosphere. Therapists here benefit from continuous learning and development, ensuring they remain at the forefront of their field.


  6. BrightStar Care
    Average Salary: $143,133
    BrightStar Care offers Physical Therapists the chance to work in diverse settings, from homes to rehabilitation centers. They serve multiple regions, providing flexible schedules and a supportive work culture. Their focus on patient-centered care creates a rewarding environment for professionals dedicated to making a difference.


  7. All About Kids
    Average Salary: $135,268
    All About Kids specializes in pediatric care, offering Physical Therapists the opportunity to work with children in a nurturing environment. They serve various locations, ensuring therapists have the chance to develop specialized skills. Their commitment to quality care and family support makes it a great place for those passionate about pediatric rehabilitation.


  8. Health Link Home Health Agency
    Average Salary: $132,200
    Health Link Home Health Agency provides Physical Therapists with the opportunity to deliver care in patients' homes. They operate in several regions, offering competitive compensation and a supportive work environment. Their dedication to excellence ensures therapists have the resources they need to succeed.


  9. BAYADA Home Health Care
    Average Salary: $127,444
    BAYADA Home Health Care offers Physical Therapists the chance to work in home health settings across various locations. They provide a supportive and innovative work environment, focusing on the well-being of both patients and staff. Their emphasis on professional development and quality care makes it an attractive option for career growth.


  10. Amedisys
    Average Salary: $125,917
    Amedisys offers Physical Therapists opportunities in both home health and clinical settings, serving a wide range of locations. They provide competitive salaries and a supportive work culture, ensuring therapists have the resources to deliver excellent care. Their commitment to patient-centered services makes it an ideal choice for dedicated professionals.

How to earn more as a Physical Therapist?

Working as a Physical Therapist offers a rewarding career path, with many opportunities to increase earnings over time. Expanding knowledge and experience can lead to higher pay. Consider these key factors to boost your income.

First, obtaining additional certifications can lead to higher earning potential. Specializing in areas like sports therapy or pediatrics often attracts higher pay. Second, gaining more experience can also increase income. Senior therapists usually earn more than entry-level ones. Third, pursuing a master's or doctoral degree can open up leadership roles and higher-paying positions. Fourth, working in high-demand areas or industries, such as sports medicine or rehabilitation centers, can lead to better compensation. Finally, seeking opportunities in private practice can offer more control over income, often leading to higher earnings.

By focusing on these factors, Physical Therapists can significantly improve their earnings. Each step taken towards specialization, education, and experience contributes to a more lucrative career.

To maximize earnings, consider these key actions:

  • Get additional certifications
  • Gain more experience
  • Pursue advanced degrees
  • Work in high-demand areas
  • Explore private practice

Currently 721 Physical Therapist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Physical Therapist in the US?

Learn what a Physical Therapist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Physical Therapist today.
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Physical Therapist
721 Job Openings