Respiratory Therapist Salary in the United States
Based on 136K+ data points from BLS and H-1B filings
Median Annual Salary
$80,241
$38.577/hr
▲ 5.0% vs 2023Salary Range
$80K – $125K
10th – 90th percentile
Total Employed
136K
workers nationwide
The median Respiratory Therapist salary in the United States is $80,241 per year, reflecting steady demand for these essential healthcare professionals. With approximately 136,410 respiratory therapists currently employed across the country, this field offers stable career prospects. Salaries in this profession typically range from $79,630 to $125,470 annually, depending on various individual and workplace factors.
Several elements influence Respiratory Therapist salary in the United States, including geographic location, years of experience, and type of employer. Therapists working in urban medical centers or specialized facilities often earn more than those in smaller communities. Advanced certifications, additional credentials, and shift differentials also impact compensation. Employment setting—whether in hospitals, clinics, or home healthcare—plays a significant role in determining overall earning potential.
Salary Distribution — Respiratory Therapist
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $79,630 |
| 25th percentile | $91,580 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $80,241 |
| 75th percentile | $110,750 |
| 90th percentile | $125,470 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by State
Top 10 Highest-Paying States for Respiratory Therapist
| # | State | Median Salary | vs National | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | District of Columbia | $104,240 | +29.9% | 360 |
| 2 | New York | $103,820 | +29.4% | 7K |
| 3 | California | $102,120 | +27.3% | 18K |
| 4 | New Jersey | $98,020 | +22.2% | 3K |
| 5 | Washington | $97,150 | +21.1% | 2K |
| 6 | Massachusetts | $96,940 | +20.8% | 2K |
| 7 | Oregon | $96,130 | +19.8% | 1K |
| 8 | Hawaii | $94,670 | +18.0% | 310 |
| 9 | Alaska | $94,210 | +17.4% | 170 |
| 10 | Minnesota | $88,040 | +9.7% | 1K |
Historical Salary Trend — Respiratory Therapist
| Year | Median Salary (United States) |
|---|---|
| 2022 | $70,362 |
| 2023 | $76,440 |
| 2024 | $80,241 |
Respiratory Therapist Salary by Experience Level
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do respiratory therapists make per hour in the US?
- Respiratory therapists earn a median hourly rate of $39/hour in the United States. This hourly rate is based on the median annual salary of $80,241 for the profession.
What is the salary range for respiratory therapists?
- Respiratory therapist salaries in the US range from $79,630 to $125,470 annually. This wide range reflects differences in experience, location, and employer type.
Which city pays respiratory therapists the most?
- The District of Columbia is the top paying city for respiratory therapists, with a median salary of $104,240 per year. This is significantly higher than the national median of $80,241.
How many respiratory therapists are employed in the United States?
- There are currently 136,410 respiratory therapists employed across the United States. This represents a substantial workforce in the healthcare industry.