\The average salary for a physical therapist in the United States is approximately $95,620 per year. Salaries vary by state, experience level, and specialty. Entry-level positions start around $70,000 annually, while experienced therapists in high-demand areas can earn over $120,000.
U.S. Average Salary for Physical Therapists
In 2025, physical therapists earn an average salary of $101,020 per year or $48.50 per hour across the United States. This data is based on the most recent labor statistics and salary databases, including the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ZipRecruiter, Vivian Health, and TLC Nursing.
Physical Therapist Salary Overview (2025)
| Source/Location | Median Annual Salary | 10th Percentile | 25th Percentile | 75th Percentile | 90th Percentile | Hourly Average | Highest State Averages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States (avg.) | $101,020 | $72,260 | $82,000 | $119,500 | $130,870 | $48.50 | California ($123,300) |
| ZipRecruiter | $96,695 | $83,000 | N/A | $107,500 | $121,500 | $46.49 | Washington ($109,516) |
| Vivian Health | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | $51.50 | Idaho ($60/hr), CA ($56/hr) |
| TLC Nursing | $100,440 | N/A | N/A | N/A | $130,870 | N/A | California, Outpatient |
How Physical Therapist Salaries Vary by Experience
Experience significantly impacts physical therapy salary. Entry-level physical therapists earn about $70,000 annually, while professionals with over 10 years of experience can earn above $120,000, especially in specialty areas.
Average Salaries by Experience Level:
- 0–2 years: $70,000–$78,000
- 3–5 years: $80,000–$90,000
- 6–10 years: $95,000–$110,000
- 10+ years: $110,000–$125,000
Recent graduates from a DPT program often begin at lower tiers but can quickly advance with experience, continuing education, or certifications.
How Location Affects Physical Therapist Wages
Geographic location is one of the strongest factors influencing salary. Physical therapists working in high-cost, high-demand areas earn the highest salaries.
Top-Paying States for Physical Therapists (2025):
- California: $123,300
- Washington: $109,516
- Idaho (hourly): $60/hr
- Nevada: $108,750
- New Jersey: $106,450
Wages in these states often reflect increased demand, urban population density, or shortages of licensed physical therapy professionals.
How Salary Changes by Work Setting
Physical therapists earn different salaries depending on their work setting. Outpatient clinics and private practices often offer higher earning potential than hospitals or nursing homes due to patient volume and profit-sharing.
Common Settings and Salary Ranges:
- Outpatient Clinics: $90,000–$115,000
- Private Practice: $95,000–$125,000
- Hospitals: $85,000–$105,000
- Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs): $80,000–$98,000
- Home Healthcare Services: $88,000–$110,000
Hospitals usually provide strong job security, while private practices reward business growth and performance.
Additional Income Opportunities for Physical Therapists
Physical therapists can increase earnings through certifications, overtime, and side jobs.
Common Additional Income Sources:
- Board Certification: In specialties like orthopedics, neurology, or women’s health, certified therapists often earn $5,000–$10,000 more annually.
- Overtime Pay: Extra shifts can add 10–15% to annual income.
- Mobile or Cash-Based PT Services: Freelance and concierge therapy models are growing.
- Teaching and Consulting: Some PTs instruct DPT program students or consult on workplace ergonomics.
How Education and Specialization Impact Salary
Higher education and specialization increase salary potential in physical therapy. Most physical therapists hold a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree, which is the standard educational requirement in the U.S.
Advanced Degrees and Certifications That Increase Pay:
- DPT Program Completion: Required for licensure in all 50 states
- Board-Certified Specialist: Orthopedic, Geriatric, Pediatric, Cardiopulmonary
- Continuing Education Units (CEUs): Higher annual CEU investments often lead to niche roles with higher compensation
Professionals with expertise in treating chronic conditions, mobility-related injuries, or managing post-surgical rehabilitation are in high demand.
Future Outlook for Physical Therapist Salaries
The job outlook for physical therapists remains strong. Employment is expected to grow 15% from 2022 to 2032, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Key Drivers of Salary Growth:
- Aging Baby Boomers: Increase in chronic conditions and mobility loss
- Active Lifestyles: Rise in sports injuries among adults and youth
- Increased Demand for Preventive Care: More emphasis on early intervention
- Growth in Home Healthcare Services: Aging population prefers at-home care
Healthcare professionals trained to relieve pain, restore function, and optimize quality of life are essential in this growing market.
Popular Questions
Below are common questions we get asked.
How does the salary of a physical therapist change if they work in a rural versus an urban setting?
Rural physical therapists earn less on average due to a lower cost of living. However, these areas often offer more job opportunities, sign-on bonuses, and loan forgiveness.
Can physical therapists negotiate their starting salary, and what factors strengthen their bargaining position?
Yes, physical therapists can negotiate salary. Strong bargaining factors include certifications, previous experience, advanced degrees, and willingness to work in high-demand regions.
Are there significant salary differences between physical therapists who work in hospitals versus those in outpatient clinics or private practices?
Yes. Outpatient clinics and private practices typically pay more. These settings allow for higher patient loads and potential bonuses or profit-sharing options.
How do travel physical therapist positions compare in salary to permanent roles?
Travel physical therapists earn more per hour and often receive benefits such as housing stipends, bonuses, and travel reimbursement.
Summary: Key Takeaways for 2025
- Average U.S. Salary: $101,020 per year
- Entry-Level: $70,000
- Top Earners: Over $120,000
- Best States: California, Washington, Idaho
- Best Settings: Private practice, outpatient clinics
- Specializations Help: Ortho, Neuro, Geriatrics
- Outlook: 15% job growth expected by 2032
Strategic Advice for Physical Therapists
To increase salary potential, physical therapists can:
- Earn board certifications in specialty areas
- Gain experience in high-demand regions
- Start or join private practice groups
- Work overtime or accept travel assignments
- Advance education through CEUs or doctoral-level research roles
Recent graduates and prospective students should factor in education debt, job setting, and geographic location when evaluating salary expectations. This information supports better decision-making when choosing a physical therapy career path in today’s healthcare industry.
