How much does a Physical Therapist Assistant make?
Physical Therapist Assistants play a key role in helping patients recover from injuries and illnesses. They work under the supervision of physical therapists. This job is both rewarding and financially stable. The average yearly salary for a Physical Therapist Assistant is $69,461. This means most people in this job earn between $48,200 and $122,500 each year.
The salary can vary based on several factors. These include experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility. For example, those with more experience often earn higher salaries. Urban areas tend to offer higher pay compared to rural areas. Working in a hospital or a private clinic can also affect earnings. The top-earning Physical Therapist Assistants make over $102,000 a year. This shows that there is good potential for growth in this field.
What are the highest paying cities for a Physical Therapist Assistant?

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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $97,783
Modesto offers a vibrant community with many healthcare facilities. Job seekers can find opportunities with prominent companies like Kaiser Permanente. The city's growing population provides a steady demand for physical therapy services.
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Chico, CA
Average Salary: $93,755
Chico is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong community. Physical therapy professionals can work with local clinics and universities. The city's commitment to health and wellness creates a supportive environment for career growth.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $92,506
San Jose is a tech hub with a diverse healthcare sector. Companies like Stanford Health Care offer excellent opportunities. The city's dynamic environment provides a wealth of experiences for those in the field.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $91,831
San Francisco is a bustling city with many healthcare facilities. Working with companies like UCSF Health can be rewarding. The city's progressive approach to healthcare offers many professional development opportunities.
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Salinas, CA
Average Salary: $91,217
Salinas offers a close-knit community with a strong focus on health. Local clinics and hospitals provide many job opportunities. The city's supportive environment makes it a great place to build a career.
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Vallejo, CA
Average Salary: $89,788
Vallejo has a rich history and a growing healthcare sector. Job seekers can find positions with companies like Kaiser Permanente. The city's diverse community offers a unique work environment.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $87,523
Los Angeles is a major city with a vast healthcare network. Working with large hospitals like Cedars-Sinai can be fulfilling. The city's diverse population provides a wide range of experiences.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $86,137
Sacramento is the state capital with a strong healthcare system. Job seekers can find opportunities with organizations like Kaiser Permanente. The city's political environment offers many professional growth opportunities.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $86,099
Santa Rosa offers a relaxed lifestyle with many healthcare facilities. Local clinics and hospitals provide many job opportunities. The city's community-focused approach makes it a great place to work.
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Bakersfield, CA
Average Salary: $85,209
Bakersfield is a growing city with a strong healthcare sector. Job seekers can find positions with companies like Adventist Health. The city's warm community offers a welcoming work environment.
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What are the best companies a Physical Therapist Assistant can work for?

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Pete Health
Average Salary: $221,461
Pete Health offers rewarding Physical Therapist Assistant jobs. They operate in multiple locations, including major cities. Their focus on patient care and professional growth makes them a top choice.
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American Hospice and Home Health Care Services
Average Salary: $163,727
American Hospice and Home Health Care Services provides excellent opportunities for Physical Therapist Assistants. They serve various locations, offering a supportive work environment and competitive pay.
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Premier Home Health Providers, Inc.
Average Salary: $163,571
Premier Home Health Providers, Inc. is known for its high-quality care and supportive team. They offer Physical Therapist Assistant jobs in several locations, ensuring a fulfilling career path.
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Neogen Care
Average Salary: $126,744
Neogen Care offers Physical Therapist Assistant positions with a focus on patient care. They operate in various locations, providing a stable and rewarding work environment.
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Omni Therapy
Average Salary: $123,456
Omni Therapy provides Physical Therapist Assistant jobs with a strong emphasis on professional development. They serve multiple locations, offering a supportive and dynamic workplace.
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Ignite Rehab
Average Salary: $110,714
Ignite Rehab offers Physical Therapist Assistant positions with a focus on innovation and patient care. They operate in several locations, providing a collaborative work environment.
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Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic
Average Salary: $106,708
Raleigh Orthopaedic Clinic provides Physical Therapist Assistant jobs with a focus on orthopedic care. They serve multiple locations, offering a supportive and professional work environment.
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Always Best Care Senior Services
Average Salary: $105,000
Always Best Care Senior Services offers Physical Therapist Assistant positions with a focus on senior care. They operate in various locations, providing a caring and supportive environment.
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Sterling Staffing Solutions
Average Salary: $104,750
Sterling Staffing Solutions provides Physical Therapist Assistant jobs with a focus on flexibility and career growth. They serve multiple locations, offering a supportive and professional work environment.
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Bridge Home Health and Hospice
Average Salary: $104,583
Bridge Home Health and Hospice offers Physical Therapist Assistant jobs with a focus on home health care. They operate in several locations, providing a supportive and rewarding work environment.
How to earn more as a Physical Therapist Assistant?
A Physical Therapist Assistant (PTA) can find several ways to increase their earnings. By focusing on specific areas, a PTA can enhance their job satisfaction and financial rewards. One key method is to gain additional certifications. These can open up new job opportunities and often lead to higher pay. Another way is to work in high-demand areas, such as urban centers or specialized clinics.
Experience and education also play a significant role in earning potential. PTAs who continue their education by earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree can qualify for higher-paying positions. Working in different settings, such as hospitals, private practices, or schools, can also lead to varied salary levels. Networking and building strong relationships within the industry can uncover higher-paying positions and career advancements. By focusing on these areas, a PTA can improve their earning potential and job prospects.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a PTA:
- Certifications: Obtain additional certifications to increase job opportunities and salary.
- Work Location: Choose to work in high-demand areas for better pay.
- Education: Pursue higher degrees to qualify for higher-paying positions.
- Work Settings: Explore different work environments for varied salary levels.
- Networking: Build relationships within the industry to uncover better opportunities.