Physical Therapist Salary in the United States
Based on 249K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$99,884
$48.021/hr
▲ 2.5% vs 2023Salary Range
$82K – $161K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
249K
workers nationwide
Physical Therapist salary in the United States reflects strong earning potential in this growing healthcare field. The median annual salary for physical therapists is $99,884, with the profession employing approximately 248,620 workers nationwide. Salaries typically range from $81,910 to $161,230 annually, demonstrating considerable variation within the field.
Several factors influence Physical Therapist salary outcomes across different regions and practice settings. Experience level, geographic location, and employer type significantly impact earnings potential. Specialized certifications, advanced degrees, and work environment—whether in hospitals, private practice, or other healthcare facilities—also play important roles in determining compensation. Market demand and cost of living in specific states further contribute to salary variations.
Salary Distribution — Physical Therapist
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $81,910 |
| 25th percentile | $99,100 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $99,884 |
| 75th percentile | $137,250 |
| 90th percentile | $161,230 |
Physical Therapist Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Physical Therapist
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | $123,300 | +23.4% | 24K |
| 2 | Alaska | $108,640 | +8.8% | 600 |
| 3 | New Jersey | $106,310 | +6.4% | 8K |
| 4 | Nevada | $105,170 | +5.3% | 2K |
| 5 | Oregon | $104,430 | +4.6% | 3K |
| 6 | Maryland | $104,330 | +4.5% | 4K |
| 7 | Connecticut | $103,720 | +3.8% | 4K |
| 8 | Texas | $103,710 | +3.8% | 19K |
| 9 | Illinois | $103,380 | +3.5% | 10K |
| 10 | Delaware | $103,120 | +3.2% | 910 |
Historical Salary Trend — Physical Therapist
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $94,188 |
| 2023 | $97,485 |
| 2024 | $99,884 |
Physical Therapist Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do physical therapists make per hour in the United States?
- Physical therapists in the United States earn a median hourly rate of $48/hour. This translates to an annual median salary of $99,884, though hourly rates can vary based on location, experience, and employer type.
What is the salary range for physical therapists?
- Physical therapist salaries in the United States range from $81,910 at the lower end to $161,230 at the higher end. This wide range reflects differences in experience level, geographic location, and specialized certifications.
Which state pays physical therapists the most?
- California is the top-paying state for physical therapists, with an average salary of $123,300 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $99,884, making it an attractive location for PT professionals.
How many physical therapists are employed in the US?
- There are currently 248,620 physical therapists employed in the United States. This represents a substantial and growing healthcare profession with significant job opportunities across the country.