Average Physical Therapists Salary in U.S.
Physical Therapists in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of $102,240. This figure aligns precisely with the national average, indicating a stable and consistent compensation landscape across the country for this vital healthcare profession. Factors such as the robust healthcare infrastructure and demand for rehabilitation services likely contribute to this equilibrium.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $102,240 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 12.8% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $132,320.
- Outlook: With a substantial local workforce of 228,410 Physical Therapists, the U.S. presents a significant market for these professionals. While a specific Location Quotient is not provided, the sheer volume of practitioners suggests a well-established and active job market, likely driven by consistent demand for physical therapy services across various healthcare settings.
Salary Overview
The average Physical Therapists in U.S. earns-0.0%below the national average.
$49.2
$1,966
$8,520
Physical Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for the U.S. is not detailed here, the physical therapy field nationally has experienced steady growth over the past four years. This trend is generally attributed to an aging population, increased awareness of non-pharmacological pain management, and advancements in rehabilitation techniques, suggesting a positive trajectory for Physical Therapist salaries.
Physical Therapists Salary Distribution in U.S.
Salary progression for Physical Therapists in the U.S. typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile of the average, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or in leadership roles can command salaries significantly above the mean. The gap between entry-level and senior-level salaries reflects the career advancement and increased responsibilities attainable within the profession.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $74,350 | $35.7 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $76,680 | $36.9 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $100,770 | $48.4 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $127,800 | $61.4 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $132,320 | $63.6 |
Detailed Physical Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$102,240
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$102,240
Adjusted for COL (100)
The nominal average annual salary of $102,240 in the U.S. is perfectly balanced by the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is also the national average. This means that the purchasing power of a Physical Therapist's salary in this location is directly comparable to the national standard, offering no significant advantage or disadvantage in terms of cost of living.
Job Market Context
228,410
Total Jobs
N/A
Per 1K Jobs
N/A
Location Quotient
The absence of a specific Location Quotient (LQ) for Physical Therapists in the U.S. suggests that the concentration of these professionals is in line with the national average. This indicates a balanced job market where demand and supply are relatively stable, without an over-saturation or significant undersupply of practitioners compared to other regions.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Physical Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Joplin, MO-KS Physical Therapists Salary | $99,260↓ 3% | 67 mi |
| Tulsa, OK Physical Therapists Salary | $96,830↓ 5% | 67 mi |
| Wichita, KS Physical Therapists Salary | $97,350↓ 5% | 99 mi |
Comparing salaries near U.S.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Physical Therapists make in U.S.?
The median annual salary for a Physical Therapists in U.S. is $102,240. This typically ranges from $74,350 for entry-level positions to $132,320 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in U.S. is 0.0% lower than the national median of $102,240.
Is U.S. a lucrative place for Physical Therapists?
Yes, the U.S. offers a lucrative and stable environment for Physical Therapists.The average salary of $102,240 matches the national average, and the cost of living is also at the national average, indicating strong earning potential and stable purchasing power.
Is U.S. a good place to live for Physical Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in U.S. is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near U.S.?
Some top paying nearby cities include Joplin, MO-KS ($99,260) and Tulsa, OK.
What is the average salary for a Physical Therapist in the U.S.?
The average annual salary for a Physical Therapist in the U.S. is $102,240.
How does the U.S. cost of living compare to the national average?
The cost of living in the U.S. is exactly at the national average, with an index of 100.
What is the total workforce of Physical Therapists in the U.S.?
There are approximately 228,410 Physical Therapists employed in the U.S.
Does experience impact a Physical Therapist's salary in the U.S.?
Yes, experience significantly influences salary, with entry-level therapists earning less than senior professionals who command higher compensation.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 228,410 employees in the U.S. area with a job density of per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Physical Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in U.S.