How much does a Physical Therapist make?
Physical Therapists help people who have been hurt or have health issues. They make sure patients can move and do their daily tasks better. Their work is very important and rewarding. The salary for a Physical Therapist can vary. This depends on many things, like where they work, how much experience they have, and their education.
The average yearly salary for a Physical Therapist is around $92,145. Some earn less, while others earn more. For example, Physical Therapists who have been working for a long time often make more than those just starting out. The highest-paid Physical Therapists can make over $170,000 a year. This is a good career choice for those who want to help people and make a good living.
Here is a list of Physical Therapist salaries based on experience:
- Entry level: $42,267
- 1-4 years: $53,943
- 5-9 years: $65,619
- 10-19 years: $77,295
- 20+ years: $170,701
What are the highest paying cities for a Physical Therapist?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $143,898
In San Jose, a career in physical therapy offers access to leading tech companies. The tech-heavy environment brings diverse patient cases. With renowned clinics like Kaiser Permanente, one can find rewarding opportunities.
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Beaumont, TX
Average Salary: $136,306
Beaumont provides a close-knit community feel while offering many healthcare facilities. Being part of this city's healthcare scene means working alongside top-notch professionals. CHRISTUS Health and other local clinics offer robust career growth.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $134,034
Sacramento combines a rich cultural scene with a growing healthcare industry. The city's demand for rehabilitation services makes it a great place to start or advance a career. Hospitals like UC Davis Medical Center provide excellent platforms for professional development.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $133,257
Colorado Springs offers a vibrant environment with a mix of urban and outdoor living. The city's active lifestyle supports a steady need for physical therapy services. Employers like Penrose-St. Francis Health Services ensure a dynamic and fulfilling career path.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $130,244
Boston's rich history and educational hubs make it a prime location for healthcare careers. The city's top hospitals, including Massachusetts General Hospital, provide extensive opportunities for growth and specialization.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $126,277
Chicago's diverse population and healthcare needs offer a robust job market. The city boasts many large healthcare systems, including Northwestern Memorial Hospital, ensuring varied and challenging experiences.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $125,543
Modesto's community-oriented environment provides a supportive atmosphere for healthcare professionals. The city's healthcare facilities, including Memorial Medical Center, offer excellent opportunities for both experienced and new professionals.
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Lansing, MI
Average Salary: $125,421
Lansing's central location and growing healthcare sector make it an ideal place for a physical therapy career. The city's hospitals, such as McLaren Greater Lansing, provide a stable and rewarding work environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $125,141
Santa Rosa combines a relaxed lifestyle with a thriving job market. The area's healthcare facilities, like Sutter Medical Center, offer diverse experiences and a chance to make a significant impact.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $122,986
San Francisco's progressive environment and diverse population create a dynamic setting for physical therapy careers. Major healthcare institutions like UCSF Health provide opportunities for specialization and advancement.
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What are the best companies a Physical Therapist can work for?

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Tender Touch Therapy
Average Salary: $190,000
Tender Touch Therapy provides exceptional physical therapy services. They offer jobs across various locations, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their focus on patient care and professional development makes them a top choice for physical therapists.
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EVERGREEN CARE CENTER
Average Salary: $150,000
EVERGREEN CARE CENTER offers a rewarding environment for physical therapists. They have facilities in Washington, Oregon, and Arizona. They value their therapists, offering a supportive community and strong career growth.
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ABL Health Care, LLC
Average Salary: $143,214
ABL Health Care, LLC operates in multiple states, including New York and Pennsylvania. They focus on providing quality care and support to their physical therapists, promoting a collaborative work environment.
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Concierge Home Care
Average Salary: $139,556
Concierge Home Care offers home-based physical therapy services in states like Illinois and Michigan. They provide flexible schedules and a supportive team, making it easier for therapists to balance work and life.
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BrightStar Care
Average Salary: $138,601
BrightStar Care is known for its personalized care approach. They operate in states such as Ohio and Indiana. They offer a nurturing environment and continuous professional development opportunities for their staff.
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Health Link Home Health Agency
Average Salary: $134,250
Health Link Home Health Agency serves patients in Florida and Georgia. They focus on delivering high-quality home health care. The agency values teamwork and offers competitive salaries to its therapists.
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BAYADA Home Health Care
Average Salary: $132,625
BAYADA Home Health Care operates in many states, including New Jersey and Maryland. They are known for their innovative approach to patient care. The company fosters a supportive culture and offers growth opportunities.
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Mission Healthcare
Average Salary: $131,192
Mission Healthcare provides physical therapy services in California, Texas, and Colorado. They prioritize the well-being of their therapists and offer a collaborative work environment. Their focus on patient care makes them a valued employer.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $127,628
Amedisys offers physical therapy services in states like Virginia and North Carolina. They focus on providing quality care and support to their staff. The company values professional growth and work-life balance.
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Aveanna Healthcare
Average Salary: $126,199
Aveanna Healthcare operates in many states, including Minnesota and Wisconsin. They offer a supportive environment for physical therapists. The company focuses on patient care and offers opportunities for career advancement.
How to earn more as a Physical Therapist?
As a Physical Therapist, several factors can help increase your earning potential. Focusing on these areas allows for professional growth and higher income opportunities. Working in specialized areas of physical therapy can lead to higher pay. For example, a sports therapist may earn more than a general therapist due to the specific skills required. Experience also plays a key role. The more years you spend in the field, the more knowledge and skills you gain, which often result in higher pay.
Continuing education is another factor. Taking advanced courses and earning certifications can make a therapist more valuable. Locations matter as well. Urban areas with higher living costs typically offer higher salaries to compensate. Lastly, working in a private practice can provide more earning potential compared to hospitals or clinics.
Consider these key areas to boost your earnings as a Physical Therapist:
- Specialize in a niche area of physical therapy.
- Gain more experience and build a solid reputation.
- Pursue additional education and certifications.
- Work in high-demand locations.
- Explore private practice opportunities.



