How much does a Physical Therapy Director make?
A Physical Therapy Director plays a key role in managing the work of a physical therapy team. This role often comes with a rewarding salary. On average, Physical Therapy Directors earn about $73,630 each year. However, this number can change based on several factors.
Several things can affect a Physical Therapy Director's salary. These include experience, education, and location. Some Physical Therapy Directors earn less, around $38,000 a year. Others make much more, up to $163,500 a year. Most Physical Therapy Directors fall somewhere in the middle, earning between $60,818 and $129,273 annually.
Being a Physical Therapy Director can lead to good pay. This is especially true for those who have more experience and work in areas where there is a high demand for physical therapy services.
What are the highest paying cities for a Physical Therapy Director?

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Tyler, TX
Average Salary: $107,677
In Tyler, TX, a professional excels in guiding physical therapy teams and ensuring high-quality patient care. The city is known for its supportive community and offers ample opportunities to enhance skills at prominent clinics.
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Columbus, OH
Average Salary: $100,486
Columbus, OH offers a thriving environment for those leading physical therapy departments. The city’s healthcare sector is robust, providing numerous options to grow and innovate within established institutions.
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Albuquerque, NM
Average Salary: $98,354
In Albuquerque, NM, professionals benefit from a growing healthcare industry and a diverse patient population. The city's commitment to health and wellness creates a rewarding setting for leadership roles in physical therapy.
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Louisville, KY
Average Salary: $93,074
Louisville, KY presents a dynamic environment for physical therapy leadership. The city’s expanding healthcare needs foster opportunities to make significant impacts on patient outcomes and team development.
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Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $84,627
Worcester, MA provides a unique setting for professionals to lead physical therapy teams. The city’s strong educational institutions and healthcare facilities offer excellent platforms for growth and collaboration.
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Chicago, IL
Average Salary: $47,841
Chicago, IL, a bustling metropolis, offers a wealth of opportunities for those in physical therapy leadership. The city’s diverse patient base and top-tier medical centers create an ideal environment for career advancement.
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Rockford, IL
Average Salary: $47,294
Rockford, IL provides a close-knit community atmosphere with ample opportunities for physical therapy leadership. The city’s focus on healthcare excellence supports continuous professional growth and development.
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Minneapolis, MN
Average Salary: $44,350
Minneapolis, MN offers a vibrant environment for leading physical therapy teams. The city’s commitment to health and wellness provides numerous avenues to excel and innovate within the healthcare sector.
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What are the best companies a Physical Therapy Director can work for?

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Theradynamics
Average Salary: $107,368
Theradynamics offers competitive salaries for Physical Therapy Directors. They operate in multiple states, providing advanced rehabilitation services. Their focus is on quality patient care and innovative therapy programs.
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State of Michigan
Average Salary: $61,134
The State of Michigan provides Physical Therapy Director positions with a good salary. They have various locations across the state, offering public health and rehabilitation services. They value professional development and teamwork.
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Allina Health
Average Salary: $50,523
Allina Health offers Physical Therapy Director roles with a solid salary. They have multiple facilities across Minnesota and Wisconsin. They focus on patient-centered care and offer comprehensive benefits.
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PINE CREST
Average Salary: $45,586
PINE CREST provides Physical Therapy Director positions with a decent salary. They operate in different regions, focusing on rehabilitation and community health. They emphasize a supportive work environment.
How to earn more as a Physical Therapy Director?
Aspiring to earn more as a Physical Therapy Director involves strategic decisions and career moves. Taking certain steps can help increase your earnings. Prioritizing these factors ensures a path to a more rewarding salary.
Pursuing advanced degrees can boost earning potential. Directors with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) or a Master’s degree often command higher salaries. These advanced degrees provide deeper expertise and knowledge, making you a more valuable asset. Specialization in areas like sports therapy or pediatric care can further enhance earning potential. Keeping up with continuing education helps maintain high standards and can lead to better job opportunities.
Experience plays a key role in salary increases. Directors with more years in the field often earn more. Gaining experience in various settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and private practices, broadens your skill set. Leading large teams or managing multiple locations can also lead to higher earnings. Taking on leadership roles, such as supervising other therapists, can show your ability to manage and grow a department. This experience builds your resume and increases your value in the job market.
Location matters when it comes to salary. Directors in areas with a high demand for physical therapy services often earn more. Urban areas or regions with a growing population may offer higher wages. Researching job markets in different areas can help identify places with better pay. Networking with professionals in those areas can also uncover hidden opportunities and salary trends.
Negotiating salary effectively can make a big difference. Job seekers should be prepared to discuss their qualifications and experience during interviews. Knowing the average salary for directors in your area helps in making a strong case. Highlighting your achievements, such as successful programs you have implemented, can support your request for a higher salary. Confidence and preparation in negotiations lead to better outcomes.
Building a strong professional network enhances career opportunities and potential salary increases. Joining professional organizations and attending conferences keeps you connected with industry trends and peers. Engaging in these networks can lead to recommendations for higher-paying positions. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals can also open doors to new and better opportunities.
- Pursue advanced degrees to increase expertise and knowledge.
- Gain experience by working in various settings and taking on leadership roles.
- Research job markets in high-demand areas to identify better pay opportunities.
- Negotiate salary confidently by understanding market rates and highlighting achievements.
- Build and maintain a strong professional network to uncover new opportunities.



