How Much do Physical Therapists Make?

Physical therapists in the United States earn an average annual salary of $100,440, according to recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. With over 240,000 professionals employed in this field, physical therapy continues to be a rewarding and essential health care career.

These skilled health care professionals play a vital role in helping patients improve their mobility and manage pain. Physical therapists work with individuals of all ages, from young children to elderly adults, using exercises, hands-on therapy, and specialized equipment to enhance physical function and quality of life. In this article, we'll dive deeper into the world of physical therapy, exploring how salaries and job opportunities vary across different regions of the country. We'll also compare this profession to similar roles in the health care industry, providing valuable insights for those considering a career in physical therapy or looking to advance their current position.

Highest Paying States for Physical Therapists

Physical therapists seeking the highest compensation should consider employment in states such as California, Nevada, and Alaska. According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these states offer the most lucrative salaries for physical therapists.

• California leads with an impressive average annual salary of $114,270 and an hourly mean wage of $54.94. The state employs around 24,200 physical therapists, making it not only a high-paying option but also a significant hub for employment in this field.
• Nevada offers the second-highest average annual salary at $111,460, with an hourly mean wage of $53.59, albeit with a smaller employment figure of 1,880.
• Alaska ranks third, providing an average annual salary of $110,830 and an hourly wage of $53.28, though it has a much smaller employment base with only 570 physical therapists.

These figures highlight the potential financial benefits of working as a physical therapist in these states, where high salaries are complemented by diverse employment opportunities.

Comparing Salaries of Therapy Professions

When looking at the salaries of different therapy professions, physical therapists earn the most on average. They have an annual mean wage of $100,440, which breaks down to an average hourly wage of $48.29. There are 240,820 people employed as physical therapists. Occupational therapists follow closely, with an annual mean wage of $96,790 and an hourly mean of $46.54. There are 144,840 occupational therapists working across the country.

Recreational therapists earn a bit less compared to the other two professions. Their annual mean wage is $60,910, with an hourly mean of $29.28. There's a much smaller workforce in this field, with only 15,540 employed recreational therapists. Overall, while physical and occupational therapists have similar wages, recreational therapists earn less on average but may offer a different type of rewarding work experience.

<table><tr><th>Occupation</th><th>Annual Salary</th><th>Hourly Salary</th><th>Employment</th></tr><tr><td>Physical Therapists</td><td>$100,440</td><td>$48.29</td><td>240,820</td></tr><tr><td>Occupational Therapists</td><td>$96,790</td><td>$46.54</td><td>144,840</td></tr><tr><td>Recreational Therapists</td><td>$60,910</td><td>$29.28</td><td>15,540</td></tr></table> ## Bottom Line

The field of physical therapy offers a rewarding career path with a strong salary outlook and diverse opportunities. As a physical therapist, you can expect to earn an average annual salary of $100,440, making it a lucrative option within the health care industry. Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering a career as a physical therapist:

• Competitive Salaries: Among therapy professions, physical therapists earn the highest average salary, surpassing both occupational and recreational therapists.
• Employment Opportunities: With over 240,000 professionals employed across the United States, the demand for physical therapists remains high, ensuring job security and growth potential.
• Regional Variations: States like California, Nevada, and Alaska offer the highest salaries, providing financial benefits alongside a variety of employment opportunities.
• Vital Role: Physical therapists play a crucial part in improving patients' mobility and quality of life, making it a fulfilling career choice for those passionate about patient care.

Overall, physical therapy is not only a financially rewarding career but also an essential component of the health care system, offering meaningful work that impacts lives positively.

‍