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How much does a Respiratory Therapist make?

The average salary for a Respiratory Therapist is $85,222 per year in the US.

Respiratory Therapists play a vital role in healthcare, helping patients with breathing issues. They earn a good salary for their important work. The average yearly salary for a Respiratory Therapist is $85,222. This means they make a solid income each year.

Respiratory Therapists can earn different amounts based on their experience and where they work. The lowest 10% earn about $51,570 a year. The top 10% earn more than $134,784 annually. Most therapists fall somewhere in between these numbers. This range shows that with more experience, therapists can earn higher salaries.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Respiratory Therapist?

Respiratory Therapists can find some of the best-paying opportunities in Anchorage, AK, where the average salary reaches $115,548. Boston, MA, and Hartford, CT, also offer competitive salaries, with averages of $114,187 and $113,014, respectively. Job seekers should consider these cities for higher earning potential in their field.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Respiratory Therapist jobs, highlighting Anchorage, AK with the highest at $115,548 and Washington, DC with the lowest at $100,085.
  1. Anchorage, AK
    Average Salary: $115,548
    In Anchorage, professionals find rewarding work in a city known for its stunning landscapes. Hospitals like Providence Alaska Medical Center offer excellent opportunities. The demand for skilled therapists is high, making it a great place to build a career.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Anchorage, AK


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $114,187
    Boston offers a dynamic environment for those in the healthcare field. With top institutions like Massachusetts General Hospital, job seekers can expect competitive salaries and diverse patient care experiences. The city's rich history adds to the professional allure.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Boston, MA


  3. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $113,014
    Hartford provides a balanced lifestyle with a strong healthcare sector. The city's hospitals, including Hartford Hospital, are known for their quality care. Respiratory therapists here enjoy a supportive work environment and a chance to make a real difference.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Hartford, CT


  4. Cedar Rapids, IA
    Average Salary: $111,712
    Cedar Rapids is a growing city with a welcoming atmosphere for healthcare workers. Local hospitals like St. Luke's Hospital offer excellent career opportunities. The community's support for healthcare professionals makes it a great place to work.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Cedar Rapids, IA


  5. Santa Maria, CA
    Average Salary: $109,596
    Santa Maria offers a relaxed yet vibrant environment for healthcare professionals. Hospitals like French Hospital Medical Center provide excellent opportunities. The city's beautiful beaches and mild climate make it an attractive place to live and work.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Santa Maria, CA


  6. Allentown, PA
    Average Salary: $106,541
    Allentown, known as the 'Queen City,' offers a mix of urban and suburban living. St. Luke's University Health Network provides many job opportunities. The city's rich history and cultural attractions make it a pleasant place to work and live.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Allentown, PA


  7. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $105,852
    San Francisco is a bustling city with a high demand for healthcare services. Hospitals like UCSF Medical Center offer cutting-edge opportunities. The city's vibrant culture and scenic views add to the professional experience.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in San Francisco, CA


  8. Philadelphia, PA
    Average Salary: $104,964
    Philadelphia, with its rich history, offers many opportunities for healthcare professionals. Hospitals such as Penn Medicine provide excellent career paths. The city's diverse culture and lively atmosphere make it an exciting place to work.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Philadelphia, PA


  9. Worcester, MA
    Average Salary: $103,994
    Worcester is a growing city with a strong healthcare network. Hospitals like UMass Memorial Health offer many job opportunities. The city's educational institutions and cultural events provide a vibrant backdrop for professionals.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Worcester, MA


  10. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $100,085
    Washington, DC, offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and cultural experiences. Hospitals like MedStar Washington Hospital Center provide top-tier healthcare services. The city's political and historical significance adds to its appeal.
    Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Washington, DC

What are the best companies a Respiratory Therapist can work for?

FlexStaff offers one of the highest salaries for Respiratory Therapists, with an average of $145,483. Sentara and El Camino Health also provide competitive pay, with averages of $141,111 and $133,840, respectively. Stability HealthCare and GHR Healthcare follow closely, ensuring attractive compensation for those in this vital role.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Respiratory Therapist jobs, highlighting FlexStaff with the highest at $145,483 and UC Davis Health with the lowest at $123,634.
  1. FlexStaff
    Average Salary: $145,483
    FlexStaff offers Respiratory Therapist jobs with competitive pay. They have locations across the country, providing diverse opportunities for professionals. Their roles often involve working in various healthcare settings, ensuring patients receive the best care.


  2. Sentara
    Average Salary: $141,111
    Sentara is a leading healthcare provider with Respiratory Therapist positions available in Virginia and North Carolina. They focus on patient-centered care and offer a supportive work environment. Their therapists work in hospitals and outpatient clinics, making a significant impact on patient health.


  3. El Camino Health
    Average Salary: $133,840
    El Camino Health, based in California, offers rewarding Respiratory Therapist jobs. They emphasize teamwork and innovation. Their therapists work in state-of-the-art facilities, providing top-notch care to patients. Locations include Mountain View and Los Gatos.


  4. Stability HealthCare
    Average Salary: $128,014
    Stability HealthCare offers Respiratory Therapist jobs with a focus on career growth. They have positions in multiple states, including California and Texas. Their therapists work in various healthcare settings, ensuring high-quality patient care.


  5. GHR Healthcare
    Average Salary: $127,673
    GHR Healthcare provides Respiratory Therapist jobs with competitive salaries. They operate across the United States, offering diverse opportunities. Their therapists work in hospitals and clinics, delivering essential care to patients.


  6. Advantage Staffing Services
    Average Salary: $126,967
    Advantage Staffing Services offers Respiratory Therapist jobs with a focus on professional development. They have locations in several states, including Florida and New York. Their therapists work in various healthcare settings, ensuring excellent patient care.


  7. Greenstaff Medical
    Average Salary: $126,924
    Greenstaff Medical provides Respiratory Therapist jobs with a strong emphasis on quality care. They have positions in multiple states, including California and New York. Their therapists work in hospitals and clinics, making a significant impact on patient health.


  8. NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital
    Average Salary: $125,050
    NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital offers Respiratory Therapist jobs with a focus on innovation and excellence. They have locations in New York City. Their therapists work in top-tier facilities, providing exceptional care to patients.


  9. Winston Resources
    Average Salary: $124,042
    Winston Resources offers Respiratory Therapist jobs with competitive pay. They have positions in several states, including California and Texas. Their therapists work in various healthcare settings, ensuring high-quality patient care.


  10. UC Davis Health
    Average Salary: $123,634
    UC Davis Health provides Respiratory Therapist jobs with a focus on research and education. They have locations in California. Their therapists work in advanced facilities, delivering top-notch care to patients.

How to earn more as a Respiratory Therapist?

Respiratory therapists play a crucial role in healthcare. They help patients with breathing problems. To earn more in this role, consider these key factors. They can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.

First, gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Experienced therapists often have more skills and knowledge. This makes them more valuable to employers. Second, obtaining additional certifications can boost earnings. Certifications in areas like neonatal or pediatric care can open up higher-paying positions. Third, working in high-demand areas can increase pay. Urban areas or regions with a shortage of therapists often offer higher wages. Fourth, pursuing advanced degrees can lead to higher-paying roles. A Master's degree in respiratory therapy can qualify someone for leadership positions. Finally, networking with other professionals can lead to better job opportunities. Attending conferences and joining professional organizations can help build connections.

By focusing on these factors, respiratory therapists can improve their earning potential. Each step can lead to more rewarding and lucrative career options.

  1. Gain more experience
  2. Obtain additional certifications
  3. Work in high-demand areas
  4. Pursue advanced degrees
  5. Network with other professionals

Currently 4,520 Respiratory Therapist job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Respiratory Therapist in the US?

Learn what a Respiratory Therapist does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Respiratory Therapist today.
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Respiratory Therapist
4,520 Job Openings