How Much Do Physical Therapists Make?
$97,720median annual salary
$46.98/hour · $8,143/month · BLS Code: 29-1123
Physical therapists help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and chronic conditions through movement and exercise-based treatments. They develop personalized treatment plans and work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and home health settings. The profession has excellent growth outlook due to aging populations.
Physical Therapist Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$72,000
Starting salary
Median
$97,720
50th percentile
Senior Level
$121,410
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$129,890
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for Physical Therapists
#1
Nevada
$116,840
#2
California
$113,900
#3
New Jersey
$108,620
#4
Connecticut
$106,550
#5
Alaska
$105,730
Top Paying Cities for Physical Therapists
Education & Requirements
Education
Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) — 3 years of doctoral-level study after bachelor's degree
Typical Degree
DPT
Certifications
Job Outlook
+15%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
258,200
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
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Physical Therapist Salary FAQ
How much do physical therapists make?
The median salary is about $97,720 per year, or roughly $46.98 per hour. Salaries range from $72,000 for new graduates to $130,000+ for experienced PTs in high-paying areas.
Is physical therapy a good career?
Yes. PT offers strong salaries, high job satisfaction, 15% growth outlook, and work-life balance. The biggest downside is the DPT degree requirement adds 7 years of education and $100,000-$150,000 in student debt.
How long does it take to become a physical therapist?
7 years after high school: 4 years of undergraduate education (with prerequisites) plus 3 years of DPT (Doctor of Physical Therapy) graduate school.
Can physical therapists make six figures?
Yes. PTs in Nevada, California, and New Jersey commonly earn $100,000+. Travel PTs, home health PTs, and those who own practices can earn $120,000-$150,000+.
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Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.