How much does a Respiratory Therapist make?
Respiratory therapists help people who have trouble breathing. This job is important and rewarding. Respiratory therapists earn a good salary, too. On average, they make $88,203 a year. This number can change based on experience and location.
Here are the average salaries in different stages of a respiratory therapist's career:
- Entry-level: $57,240
- Early career: $64,613
- Mid career: $71,985
- Experienced: $79,358
- Late career: $86,730
- Early post-career: $94,103
- Mid post-career: $101,476
- Late post-career: $108,848
- Very late career: $116,221
- Peak career: $123,593
- Post peak career: $130,966
- Final career: $138,339
These numbers show that with more experience, respiratory therapists can earn more. This makes the job very attractive for those who want to help others and build a good career.
What are the highest paying cities for a Respiratory Therapist?
-
Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $122,082
In Anchorage, healthcare facilities often work with cutting-edge technology. This city offers opportunities to work in well-equipped hospitals. With a strong focus on patient care, professionals can thrive here.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Anchorage, AK
-
San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $114,462
San Francisco boasts a dynamic healthcare industry with many top-notch facilities. Working here offers exposure to diverse populations and innovative medical practices. Companies like Kaiser Permanente provide excellent opportunities.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in San Francisco, CA
-
Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $112,835
Hartford provides a stable environment for healthcare workers. The city has a variety of hospitals where one can gain valuable experience. Institutions like Hartford Hospital are known for their quality care.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Hartford, CT
-
Santa Maria, CA
Average Salary: $110,956
Santa Maria offers a close-knit community feel with opportunities in reputable local hospitals. This setting allows for strong patient relationships. Working here means being part of a dedicated medical team.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Santa Maria, CA
-
Cedar Rapids, IA
Average Salary: $110,227
Cedar Rapids features a supportive work environment with a mix of community and larger healthcare settings. The city's hospitals are well-regarded for their patient care. This is an ideal place for those seeking a balanced work-life routine.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA
-
Allentown, PA
Average Salary: $108,966
Allentown presents a variety of healthcare opportunities in a vibrant city. Local hospitals offer diverse experiences and career growth. The area is known for its commitment to medical excellence.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Allentown, PA
-
Oklahoma City, OK
Average Salary: $107,837
Oklahoma City's healthcare sector is expanding with many hospitals and clinics. This city offers dynamic work environments and opportunities for professional development. Major employers here provide robust support and resources.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Oklahoma City, OK
-
Boston, MA
Average Salary: $107,803
Boston offers a rich history of medical innovation. Working here means access to world-renowned teaching hospitals. Opportunities abound in a city that values healthcare excellence and research.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Boston, MA
-
Philadelphia, PA
Average Salary: $106,412
Philadelphia is a hub for healthcare with numerous institutions. The city's medical community is vibrant and supportive. Working here provides a wealth of experience and networking opportunities.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Philadelphia, PA
-
Worcester, MA
Average Salary: $105,495
In Worcester, healthcare professionals can find rewarding positions in a caring community. Local hospitals emphasize quality care and professional growth. This city offers a blend of urban and suburban living.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Worcester, MA
What are the best companies a Respiratory Therapist can work for?
-
Sentara
Average Salary: $144,828
Sentara offers rewarding Respiratory Therapist roles, especially in their facilities in Virginia and North Carolina. They provide a supportive environment with many opportunities for growth.
-
AdventHealth Waterman
Average Salary: $144,262
AdventHealth Waterman has competitive pay for Respiratory Therapists in their facilities across Florida. The company values its therapists, offering various benefits and growth opportunities.
-
FlexStaff
Average Salary: $142,534
FlexStaff provides Respiratory Therapists with top-tier pay, often higher than the national average. Their assignments are across multiple states, giving flexibility and variety.
-
El Camino Health
Average Salary: $141,625
El Camino Health offers excellent Respiratory Therapist positions in Northern California, with a strong focus on patient care and professional development.
-
Stability HealthCare
Average Salary: $136,576
Stability HealthCare provides attractive salaries for Respiratory Therapists, with placements in various states, enhancing both professional and personal growth.
-
Greenstaff Medical
Average Salary: $136,103
Greenstaff Medical offers competitive salaries for Respiratory Therapists. Their assignments are nationwide, allowing for diverse experiences and growth.
-
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
Average Salary: $130,731
NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital offers rewarding roles for Respiratory Therapists, especially in New York City, with a strong emphasis on quality patient care.
-
AdventHealth Redmond
Average Salary: $130,285
AdventHealth Redmond provides excellent pay for Respiratory Therapists in Redmond, Oregon. The company values teamwork and continuous learning.
-
UC Davis Health
Average Salary: $129,278
UC Davis Health offers competitive salaries for Respiratory Therapists in California. They focus on innovation and providing top-tier patient care.
-
Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center
Average Salary: $127,450
Los Robles Hospital and Medical Center offers rewarding Respiratory Therapist roles in Thousand Oaks, California. The hospital emphasizes community care and professional growth.
How to earn more as a Respiratory Therapist?
Becoming a Respiratory Therapist can open many doors, but earning more requires dedication and certain steps. Improving income starts with gaining more experience and skills. Hospitals often pay more than other healthcare facilities. Working in a specialty can increase earning potential. Some specialties include pediatrics or sleep disorders. Certifications can boost salary as well. For instance, the Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT) credential is highly valued.
Respiratory Therapists can also increase their pay by choosing to work in high-demand areas. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of therapists tend to offer higher wages. Continuing education can also lead to better-paying positions. Workshops, seminars, and advanced degrees can open new job opportunities. Another way to earn more is to take on leadership roles. Supervisors and managers often make more than entry-level therapists. Seeking roles in administration can lead to higher pay.
Consider these factors to boost income:
- Gain more experience and skills
- Work in a specialty
- Earn relevant certifications
- Choose high-demand areas
- Pursue leadership roles
