Average Respiratory Therapists Salary in Chattanooga, TN-GA
Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA earn an average annual salary of $71,110. This figure is notably below the national average of $84,540, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a different demand-supply balance influence compensation in this region. While the nominal salary is lower, understanding the local economic context is crucial for a complete picture.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $71,110 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 32.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $93,190.
- Outlook: The Chattanooga, TN-GA area supports a dedicated workforce of approximately 300 Respiratory Therapists. With a Location Quotient of 1.28, the concentration of these professionals is higher than the national average, indicating a potentially robust demand or a specialized regional need for their services. The presence of 1.129 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores the established presence of this profession within the local labor market.
Salary Overview
The average Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA earns-15.9%below the national average.
$34.2
$1,368
$5,926
Respiratory Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA have experienced growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Economic factors such as inflation, increased demand for healthcare services, and evolving professional standards typically contribute to a gradual upward trajectory in compensation for skilled healthcare professionals.
Respiratory Therapists Salary Distribution in Chattanooga, TN-GA
The salary progression for Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA typically scales with experience. Entry-level positions may start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries in the higher percentiles. These percentile gaps are indicative of the career ladder, rewarding increased expertise, responsibility, and demonstrated value to healthcare employers.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $52,120 | $25.1 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $53,333 | $25.6 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $73,050 | $35.1 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $88,888 | $42.7 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $93,190 | $44.8 |
Detailed Respiratory Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$71,110
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$71,110
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $71,110 for Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of the local salary is equivalent to the national average, offering a stable financial environment for those considering a move or already residing in the area.
Job Market Context
300
Total Jobs
1.129
Per 1K Jobs
1.28
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.28, Chattanooga, TN-GA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Respiratory Therapists roles compared to the national norm.
A Location Quotient of 1.28 signifies that Chattanooga, TN-GA has a higher concentration of Respiratory Therapists relative to the national average. This suggests a potentially competitive job market where demand is steady, but the supply of professionals is also relatively abundant compared to other regions, which could influence salary negotiations.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Respiratory Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Dalton, GA Respiratory Therapists Salary | $81,940↑ 15% | 26 mi |
| Rome, GA Respiratory Therapists Salary | $82,070↑ 15% | 55 mi |
| Huntsville, AL Respiratory Therapists Salary | $66,550↓ 6% | 83 mi |
| Gadsden, AL Respiratory Therapists Salary | $59,350↓ 17% | 85 mi |
Comparing salaries near Chattanooga, TN-GA
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Respiratory Therapists make in Chattanooga, TN-GA?
The median annual salary for a Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA is $71,110. This typically ranges from $52,120 for entry-level positions to $93,190 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Chattanooga, TN-GA is 15.9% lower than the national median of $84,540.
Is Chattanooga, TN-GA a lucrative place for Respiratory Therapists?
No, not when compared to the national average salary.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $71,110 is significantly lower than the national average of $84,540, indicating less lucrative compensation in this specific metropolitan area.
Is Chattanooga, TN-GA a good place to live for Respiratory Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Chattanooga, TN-GA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Chattanooga, TN-GA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Dalton, GA ($81,940) and Rome, GA.
How does the cost of living in Chattanooga, TN-GA compare to the national average?
Chattanooga, TN-GA has a Cost of Living Index of 100, which is exactly the national average. This means that the general cost of goods and services is comparable to the rest of the country.
Is there high demand for Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA?
The Location Quotient of 1.28 suggests a higher concentration of Respiratory Therapists than the national average, indicating a steady or potentially elevated regional demand for their services.
What is the total number of Respiratory Therapists in Chattanooga, TN-GA?
The dataset indicates a total local workforce of approximately 300 Respiratory Therapists in the Chattanooga, TN-GA area.
How does Chattanooga's Respiratory Therapist job market compare to other areas?
With a Location Quotient above 1.0, Chattanooga has a proportionally larger number of Respiratory Therapists than the national average, suggesting a specialized or more concentrated market for this role.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 300 employees in the Chattanooga, TN-GA area with a job density of 1.129 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Respiratory Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Chattanooga, TN-GA