How much does a Physical Therapist make?
Physical Therapists play a vital role in helping people recover from injuries and improve their quality of life. The average yearly salary for a Physical Therapist is around $104,220. This figure can vary based on experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility.
The salary range for Physical Therapists can be quite broad. The lowest 10% of earners make about $37,000 per year. The highest 10% earn more than $170,000. Most Physical Therapists fall somewhere in the middle, with salaries ranging from $61,000 to $158,000. This wide range reflects the different levels of expertise and the diverse settings in which Physical Therapists work.
What are the highest paying cities for a Physical Therapist?

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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $135,190
San Jose offers a dynamic environment for those in the healing field. With top companies like Stanford Health Care, professionals find ample opportunities for growth. The tech-driven lifestyle complements a rewarding career path.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $132,932
In Sacramento, the role of a therapist thrives in a community-focused setting. With institutions like Kaiser Permanente, the city provides a stable environment. The blend of urban and suburban living makes it a great place to work and live.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $131,923
Colorado Springs is known for its outdoor activities and vibrant community. Working here means joining a network of skilled professionals. Companies like UCHealth offer excellent support and resources.
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Tampa, FL
Average Salary: $127,822
Tampa's warm climate and growing healthcare sector make it a great place for therapists. With organizations like BayCare Health System, the city offers diverse opportunities. The coastal location adds to the quality of life.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $126,383
Modesto provides a close-knit community feel with a strong healthcare network. Working here, therapists can expect a supportive environment. The city's growth offers many career advancement opportunities.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $123,326
San Francisco is a hub for innovation and healthcare. With top employers like UCSF Health, professionals can expect a challenging yet rewarding experience. The city's diverse population enriches the work environment.
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Ann Arbor, MI
Average Salary: $122,013
Ann Arbor offers a blend of academic and community healthcare. Working here means being part of a progressive environment. The University of Michigan Health System provides excellent resources and opportunities.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $121,885
San Diego's beautiful beaches and mild climate make it an attractive place to work. With institutions like Scripps Health, the city offers a vibrant healthcare scene. The outdoor lifestyle enhances the quality of life.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $117,680
Chicago is a major city with a rich healthcare system. Working here means being part of a dynamic and diverse environment. Companies like Northwestern Medicine offer extensive resources and career growth.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $116,518
Santa Rosa provides a peaceful setting with a strong community focus. Working here means being part of a supportive healthcare network. The city's growth offers many opportunities for professionals.
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What are the best companies a Physical Therapist can work for?

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Tender Touch Therapy
Average Salary: $189,500
Tender Touch Therapy offers rewarding Physical Therapist jobs with a focus on personalized care. They operate in several states, including California, Texas, and Florida. Their commitment to patient well-being makes them a top choice for many therapists.
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Nurturing Home Health Care
Average Salary: $183,462
Nurturing Home Health Care provides excellent opportunities for Physical Therapists. They serve clients in states like New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Their dedication to quality care and supportive work environment attracts many professionals.
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Helping U Homecare
Average Salary: $165,000
Helping U Homecare is known for its competitive salaries for Physical Therapists. They operate in various locations, including Ohio, Michigan, and Illinois. Their focus on patient-centered care creates a fulfilling work experience.
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Central Coast Home Health & Hospice
Average Salary: $147,182
Central Coast Home Health & Hospice offers rewarding Physical Therapist positions. They serve clients in California, providing a supportive environment for professional growth. Their commitment to quality care makes them a great choice.
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BrightStar Care
Average Salary: $144,453
BrightStar Care provides excellent opportunities for Physical Therapists. They operate in multiple states, including Illinois, New York, and California. Their focus on personalized care and supportive work environment is highly valued.
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EVERGREEN CARE CENTER
Average Salary: $142,341
EVERGREEN CARE CENTER offers competitive salaries for Physical Therapists. They serve clients in Washington and Oregon. Their dedication to patient care and supportive work environment makes them a top employer.
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All About Kids
Average Salary: $131,976
All About Kids provides rewarding Physical Therapist jobs, especially for those interested in pediatric care. They operate in several states, including Florida, Texas, and California. Their focus on children's health creates a unique and fulfilling work experience.
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Health Link Home Health Agency
Average Salary: $130,000
Health Link Home Health Agency offers excellent opportunities for Physical Therapists. They serve clients in Florida and Georgia. Their commitment to quality care and supportive work environment makes them a great choice.
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BAYADA Home Health Care
Average Salary: $127,444
BAYADA Home Health Care provides rewarding Physical Therapist positions. They operate in multiple states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Their focus on patient care and supportive work environment is highly valued.
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Amedisys
Average Salary: $124,651
Amedisys offers competitive salaries for Physical Therapists. They serve clients in various states, including Florida, Texas, and California. Their dedication to quality care and supportive work environment makes them a top employer.
How to earn more as a Physical Therapist?
Physical therapists can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on these key areas, professionals can enhance their skills and marketability. This leads to better job opportunities and higher pay.
First, gaining specialized certifications can make a therapist more attractive to employers. Certifications in areas like sports therapy or orthopedics can open up higher-paying positions. Second, pursuing advanced degrees such as a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) can lead to more senior roles. These roles often come with higher salaries. Third, gaining experience in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices, can make a therapist more versatile. This versatility can lead to better job offers. Fourth, networking with other professionals can lead to job opportunities that are not advertised. Finally, continuously updating skills through workshops and courses can keep a therapist competitive. This competitiveness can result in higher pay.
Consider these factors to boost earnings as a physical therapist. Specialization, advanced education, varied experience, networking, and ongoing education are all key to earning more.
- Specialized certifications
- Advanced degrees
- Varied experience
- Networking
- Ongoing education



