Average Respiratory Therapists Salary in Lafayette, LA
Respiratory Therapists in Lafayette, LA, earn an average annual salary of $73,050. This figure is notably below the national average of $84,540, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a different demand-supply equilibrium influence compensation in this Louisiana city. Factors such as the regional healthcare infrastructure and the specific needs of the patient population likely contribute to this localized pay scale.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $73,050 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 34.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $84,090.
- Outlook: The respiratory therapist job market in Lafayette, LA, shows a healthy concentration, indicated by a Location Quotient of 1.45, which is 45% higher than the national average. With a local workforce of 220 professionals, this suggests a robust demand for these specialized healthcare providers within the region. The presence of 1.282 jobs per 1,000 workers further underscores the consistent need for respiratory care services in Lafayette.
Salary Overview
The average Respiratory Therapists in Lafayette, LA earns-13.6%below the national average.
$35.1
$1,405
$6,088
Respiratory Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Lafayette is not provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries for Respiratory Therapists have experienced a steady upward trend over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. This growth is typically driven by increasing healthcare demands, advancements in respiratory care technology, and a persistent need for skilled professionals in the field, leading to incremental salary increases.
Respiratory Therapists Salary Distribution in Lafayette, LA
The career trajectory for Respiratory Therapists in Lafayette, LA, typically involves significant salary growth with experience. Entry-level positions might start at a lower percentile, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and leadership responsibilities can command salaries in the higher percentiles. The gap between entry-level and senior-level compensation signifies clear opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential within the profession.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $60,430 | $29.1 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $54,788 | $26.3 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $64,390 | $31 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $91,313 | $43.9 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $84,090 | $40.4 |
Detailed Respiratory Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$73,050
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$73,050
Adjusted for COL (100)
For Respiratory Therapists considering a move to Lafayette, LA, the average salary of $73,050 aligns perfectly with the local Cost of Living Index of 100, which is equivalent to the national average. This means that the purchasing power of the salary in Lafayette is comparable to the national standard, offering a stable financial environment for professionals relocating to the area.
Job Market Context
220
Total Jobs
1.282
Per 1K Jobs
1.45
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.45, Lafayette, LA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Respiratory Therapists roles compared to the national norm.
Lafayette, LA, presents a market with a higher concentration of Respiratory Therapists than the national average, as evidenced by a Location Quotient of 1.45. This indicates that the demand for these professionals is relatively strong within the local economy, potentially leading to more job opportunities and a competitive environment for employers seeking talent.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Respiratory Therapists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge, LA Respiratory Therapists Salary | $74,480↑ 2% | 56 mi |
| Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area Respiratory Therapists Salary | $68,230↓ 7% | 67 mi |
| Central Louisiana nonmetropolitan area Respiratory Therapists Salary | $67,530↓ 8% | 67 mi |
| Northeast Louisiana nonmetropolitan area Respiratory Therapists Salary | $69,120↓ 5% | 67 mi |
| Lake Charles, LA Respiratory Therapists Salary | $73,300↑ 0% | 70 mi |
Comparing salaries near Lafayette, LA
Hiring Respiratory Therapistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Respiratory Therapists make in Lafayette, LA?
The median annual salary for a Respiratory Therapists in Lafayette, LA is $73,050. This typically ranges from $60,430 for entry-level positions to $84,090 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Lafayette, LA is 13.6% lower than the national median of $84,540.
Is Lafayette, LA a lucrative place for Respiratory Therapists?
Yes, with a caveat regarding national averages.While the average salary of $73,050 is below the national average, the strong concentration (LQ of 1.45) and cost of living matching the national average suggest a stable and opportunity-rich environment for Respiratory Therapists in Lafayette.
Is Lafayette, LA a good place to live for Respiratory Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in Lafayette, LA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Lafayette, LA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Baton Rouge, LA ($74,480) and Southwest Louisiana nonmetropolitan area.
How does the cost of living in Lafayette, LA affect Respiratory Therapist salaries?
The cost of living in Lafayette, LA, is exactly at the national average (100). This means that the average salary of $73,050 for Respiratory Therapists provides a purchasing power equivalent to the national median, making it a financially stable location.
What is the demand for Respiratory Therapists in Lafayette, LA?
Demand appears robust, with a Location Quotient of 1.45 indicating a higher concentration of Respiratory Therapists than the national average. This suggests a strong local need for these healthcare professionals.
How many Respiratory Therapists are employed in Lafayette, LA?
There are approximately 220 Respiratory Therapists employed in Lafayette, LA, contributing to the local healthcare workforce.
Are there more Respiratory Therapist jobs per capita in Lafayette, LA compared to the national average?
Yes, Lafayette, LA, has 1.282 Respiratory Therapist jobs per 1,000 workers, which is higher than the national average, indicating a greater prevalence of these roles within the local job market.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 220 employees in the Lafayette, LA area with a job density of 1.282 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 Lafayette, LA