Earning a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree is not only a path to a fulfilling and impactful career but also offers substantial financial rewards. If you’re considering becoming a physical therapist, understanding the potential salary is a crucial part of your decision-making process. The good news is that the median Doctor Of Physical Therapy Salary in the U.S. is a robust $99,710, according to recent data.1
However, this national average is just the starting point. A Doctor of Physical Therapy salary can vary significantly based on several factors, with location being one of the most influential. Your earning potential as a DPT will depend on the state or territory where you choose to practice, as well as your experience, specialization, and the type of setting you work in.
To provide you with a comprehensive understanding of your potential income, we’ve compiled detailed salary projections for Doctors of Physical Therapy across every U.S. state and territory. This guide will explore the average DPT salary in each location, alongside cost of living data and job outlook projections, empowering you to make informed decisions about your career path.
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Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary Across the United States
Let’s delve into the salary landscape for licensed Doctors of Physical Therapy throughout the U.S. Whether you’re just starting your journey toward a physical therapy graduate degree or are a seasoned professional considering relocation, this state-by-state breakdown will offer valuable insights.
The salary data presented below is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), while annual job opening projections come from the Projections Managing Partnership (PMP). Cost of living index scores are provided by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center’s Cost of Living Data Series. Please note that the BLS data is current as of April 2024, and salary figures may have evolved since then.
Exploring Doctorate of Physical Therapy salaries by state is essential for answering the important question: Is a DPT degree worth it? We believe the data speaks for itself.
| State | Hourly mean wage2 | Annual mean wage2 | Annual Job Openings3 | Cost of Living Index4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $46.61 | $96,950 | 170 | 88.1 |
| Alaska | $53.28 | $110,830 | 30 | 125.1 |
| Arizona | $47.58 | $98,960 | 430 | 110.5 |
| Arkansas | $44.36 | $92,270 | 140 | 88.5 |
| California | $54.94 | $114,270 | 1,550 | 145.0 |
| Colorado | $47.12 | $98,000 | 440 | 101.8 |
| Connecticut | $49.94 | $103,870 | 220 | 113.2 |
| Delaware | $50.26 | $104,530 | 70 | 100.9 |
| District of Columbia (D.C.) | $49.78 | $103,550 | 40 | 144.6 |
| Florida | $45.60 | $94,850 | 1,040 | 103.1 |
| Georgia | $48.01 | $99,860 | 470 | 91.3 |
| Hawaii | $49.52 | $103,010 | 50 | 186.2 |
| Idaho | $44.42 | $92,400 | 120 | 101.1 |
| Illinois | $50.31 | $104,640 | 500 | 93.3 |
| Indiana | $46.52 | $96,760 | 310 | 90.3 |
| Iowa | $44.16 | $91,850 | 160 | 90.1 |
| Kansas | $45.09 | $93,780 | 140 | 87.3 |
| Kentucky | $42.06 | $87,480 | 200 | 92.6 |
| Louisiana | $47.04 | $97,830 | 160 | 92.1 |
| Maine | $44.10 | $91,720 | 60 | 111.3 |
| Maryland | $50.73 | $105,520 | 340 | 116.2 |
| Massachusetts | $47.93 | $99,700 | 520 | 144.3 |
| Michigan | $45.89 | $95,450 | 490 | 91.8 |
| Minnesota | $47.05 | $97,860 | 250 | 94.8 |
| Mississippi | $45.79 | $95,230 | 110 | 88.3 |
| Missouri | $43.77 | $91,030 | 280 | 88.5 |
| Montana | $41.13 | $85,550 | 80 | 94.6 |
| Nebraska | $43.69 | $90,870 | 130 | 93.4 |
| Nevada | $53.59 | $111,460 | 140 | 102.7 |
| New Hampshire | $45.78 | $95,220 | 80 | 113.6 |
| New Jersey | $52.54 | $109,280 | 530 | 113.7 |
| New Mexico | $47.26 | $98,290 | 110 | 93.6 |
| New York | $48.47 | $100,810 | 1,370 | 123.1 |
| North Carolina | $45.74 | $95,150 | 450 | 98.5 |
| North Dakota | $42.51 | $88,430 | 50 | 92.8 |
| Ohio | $47.06 | $97,890 | 510 | 94.0 |
| Oklahoma | $45.89 | $95,450 | 160 | 86.4 |
| Oregon | $48.22 | $100,310 | 210 | 114.1 |
| Pennsylvania | $47.58 | $98,970 | 770 | 95.6 |
| Puerto Rico | $25.33 | $52,690 | 40 | 102.6 |
| Rhode Island | $45.75 | $95,160 | 60 | 113.4 |
| South Carolina | $45.33 | $94,280 | 220 | 97.6 |
| South Dakota | $42.81 | $89,050 | 60 | 93.4 |
| Tennessee | $46.37 | $96,440 | 320 | 90.3 |
| Texas | $51.42 | $106,960 | 1,150 | 92.4 |
| Utah | $46.57 | $96,860 | 170 | 102.9 |
| Vermont | $45.38 | $94,380 | 50 | 114.7 |
| Virgin Islands | $49.14 | $102,200 | N/A | N/A |
| Virginia | $48.01 | $99,850 | 420 | 101.3 |
| Washington | $48.79 | $101,480 | 850 | 115.1 |
| West Virginia | $45.25 | $94,130 | 110 | 83.8 |
| Wisconsin | $45.76 | $95,180 | 310 | 97.0 |
| Wyoming | $44.80 | $93,190 | 40 | 95.1 |
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Alabama: $96,950 Annually
In Alabama, Doctors of Physical Therapy earn an average annual salary of $96,950, translating to $46.61 per hour. This competitive wage is particularly attractive when considering Alabama’s relatively low cost of living, which is indexed at 88.1, below the national average. For those seeking job opportunities, Alabama projects approximately 170 physical therapy job openings each year through 2030, suggesting a stable and growing market for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Alaska: $110,830 per Year
Alaska stands out as the third highest-paying state for physical therapists, offering an impressive average annual Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $110,830, or $53.28 per hour. While the projected annual job openings are lower at 30, this is proportionate to Alaska’s smaller population. The cost of living in Alaska is considerably higher than the national average, with an index of 125.1. However, the substantial DPT salary can help offset these higher living expenses, making Alaska a financially rewarding location for physical therapists.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Arizona: $98,960 Per Year
Arizona offers a robust job market for healthcare professionals, and Doctors of Physical Therapy are in high demand. The average annual DPT salary in Arizona is $98,960, or $47.58 per hour. The state anticipates around 430 job openings for PTs annually until 2030, indicating strong career prospects. The cost of living in Arizona is slightly above the national average at 110.5, but the healthy salary and job market make it an appealing state for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Arkansas: $92,270 Per Year
Arkansas presents a favorable environment for physical therapists seeking a balance between income and affordability. The average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary in Arkansas is $92,270 per year, or $44.36 per hour. With a projected 140 job openings annually, opportunities are readily available. Notably, Arkansas boasts a cost of living index of 88.5, below the national average, allowing DPT professionals to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle with their earnings.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in California: $114,270 Annually
Physical therapist assisting patient with leg exercises in California
California reigns as the highest-paying state for Doctors of Physical Therapy, with an impressive mean annual salary of $114,270, which breaks down to $54.94 per hour. This lucrative compensation reflects the high demand for PTs in a state that values fitness and sports. California projects a substantial 1,550 physical therapy job openings each year. However, it’s important to consider California’s high cost of living, which is the second highest in the nation at 145.0 on the index. Despite the expenses, the exceptional DPT salary in California makes it a highly attractive destination for physical therapy professionals. For those looking to study in the Golden State, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) San Marcos campus provides an excellent option.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Colorado: $98,000 Per Year
Colorado offers a desirable blend of outdoor lifestyle and professional opportunities for physical therapists. The average annual Doctor of Physical Therapy salary in Colorado is $98,000, or $47.12 per hour. With a projected 440 new job openings each year, the demand for PTs is strong. The cost of living in Colorado is slightly above the national average, indexed at 101.8. The appealing salary, combined with Colorado’s natural beauty and active culture, makes it a popular choice for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Connecticut: $103,870 Per Year
Connecticut ranks as the ninth highest-paying state for physical therapists, presenting a compelling option for those seeking rewarding careers in physical therapy. The average Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary in Connecticut is $103,870 per year, or $49.94 per hour. The state anticipates approximately 220 yearly job openings for PTs. The cost of living in Connecticut is considerably higher than the national average, with an index of 113.2. However, the attractive DPT salary can help offset these costs, making Connecticut a viable and prosperous location for physical therapists.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Delaware: $104,530 Per Year
Delaware offers a competitive salary for Doctors of Physical Therapy, with an average annual income of $104,530, or $50.26 per hour. The state projects a steady increase in physical therapy jobs, with around 70 new positions expected each year. Delaware’s cost of living is just slightly above the national average, at 100.9 on the index. The combination of a strong DPT salary and a reasonable cost of living makes Delaware an attractive state for physical therapy professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in District of Columbia (D.C.): $103,550 Per Year
In the nation’s capital, Doctors of Physical Therapy can expect to earn a substantial average annual salary of $103,550, or $49.78 per hour. While the projected annual job openings are relatively modest at 40, D.C. presents unique opportunities, potentially including private practice development. However, the District of Columbia has a very high cost of living, ranking as the third most expensive place in the country with an index of 144.6. Physical therapists in D.C. benefit from a strong salary, but must factor in the elevated cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Florida: $94,850 Per Year
Florida, the Sunshine State, attracts many with its warm climate and vibrant lifestyle. For Doctors of Physical Therapy, Florida offers an average annual salary of $94,850, or $45.60 per hour. The state projects a significant number of PT job openings, around 1,040 each year, possibly due to its large retiree population. The cost of living in Florida is slightly above the national average, with an index of 103.1. USAHS has campuses in St. Augustine and Miami, Florida, offering DPT programs in desirable locations.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Georgia: $99,860 Per Year
Georgia, the Peach State, provides promising career prospects for Doctors of Physical Therapy. The average DPT salary in Georgia is $99,860 annually, or $48.01 per hour. The state anticipates significant career growth in this field, projecting 470 new job openings every year. Georgia’s cost of living is below the national average, indexed at 91.3, making it a financially sound location for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Hawaii: $103,010 Per Year
Hawaii, renowned for its beauty, offers Doctors of Physical Therapy an average annual salary of $103,010, or $49.52 per hour. The projected annual job openings are around 50. However, it’s essential to consider Hawaii’s exceptionally high cost of living, which is the highest in the U.S., indexed at 186.2. While the DPT salary is competitive, the high cost of living in Hawaii requires careful financial planning.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Idaho: $92,400 Per Year
Idaho offers a balance of outdoor recreation and professional opportunities. Doctors of Physical Therapy in Idaho earn an average annual salary of approximately $92,400, or $44.42 per hour. The state projects about 120 new PT jobs opening each year. The cost of living in Idaho is just slightly above the national average, at 101.1 on the index. Idaho can be a good choice for DPT professionals seeking a lower cost of living than some coastal states, combined with outdoor amenities.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Illinois: $104,640 Per Year
Illinois, home to Chicago and diverse urban and rural areas, offers an impressive average DPT salary of $104,640 per year, or $50.31 per hour. The demand for PTs in Illinois is strong, with an average of 500 new openings projected annually. The cost of living in Illinois is below the national average, with an index of 93.3. Illinois provides a robust job market and a comfortable cost of living for Doctor of Physical Therapy professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Indiana: $96,760 Per Year
Indiana, located in the Midwest, offers a solid average Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $96,760, or $46.52 per hour. The state projects a need for around 310 new PTs every year through 2030. Indiana’s cost of living is below the national average, indexed at 90.3. Indiana presents a stable and affordable environment for physical therapy careers.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Iowa: $91,850 Per Year
Iowa, known as the Hawkeye State, offers an average annual DPT salary of $91,850, or $44.16 per hour. With approximately 160 new jobs projected to open each year, Iowa offers steady opportunities in physical therapy. The cost of living in Iowa is below the national average, indexed at 90.1. Iowa can be a worthwhile destination for DPT professionals seeking a lower cost of living and a balanced lifestyle.
Bar graph showing highest-paying states for physical therapists
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Kansas: $93,780 Per Year
Kansas offers a strong average DPT salary of $93,780 per year, or $45.09 per hour. The state anticipates around 140 new job openings annually. Kansas boasts one of the lowest costs of living in the U.S., indexed at 87.3. For physical therapists seeking affordability and a good income in the Midwest, Kansas is a compelling option.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Kentucky: $87,480 Per Year
Kentucky offers a physical therapy doctor salary of $87,480 per year, which translates to $42.06 per hour. The state projects about 200 new PT jobs to open annually. The cost of living in Kentucky is below the national average, indexed at 92.6. While the salary is lower than some states, the affordable cost of living in Kentucky can make it a financially reasonable choice.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Louisiana: $97,830 Per Year
Louisiana stands out with a strong Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $97,830 per year, or $47.04 per hour. The state expects around 160 job openings for PTs annually. Louisiana also benefits from a below-average cost of living, indexed at 92.1. Louisiana offers a good balance of income and affordability for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Maine: $91,720 Per Year
Maine offers an average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $91,720 per year, or $44.10 per hour. While this is among the lower salaries in the country, it still exceeds the national median household income. Maine projects about 60 new PT jobs to open each year. The cost of living in Maine is above the national average, indexed at 111.3. For those drawn to Maine’s lifestyle, it’s important to consider the cost of living in relation to the DPT salary.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Maryland: $105,520 Per Year
Maryland projects a strong average DPT salary of around $105,520 per year, or $50.73 per hour. Coupled with an estimated 340 annual job openings, Maryland is an excellent place to practice physical therapy. The cost of living in Maryland is above the national average, indexed at 116.2. The attractive salary and job market in Maryland are balanced by a higher cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Massachusetts: $99,700 Per Year
Massachusetts offers an average annual physical therapy doctor salary of $99,700, or $47.93 per hour. The state projects around 520 new job openings yearly. Massachusetts has the fourth-highest cost of living in the U.S., indexed at 144.3. While the DPT salary is competitive, the high cost of living in Massachusetts requires financial awareness.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Michigan: $95,450 Per Year
Michigan offers a Dr. of Physical Therapy salary of $95,450 per year, or $45.89 per hour. The state projects 490 job openings annually. The cost of living in Michigan is below the national average, indexed at 91.8. Michigan provides a stable job market and an affordable cost of living for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Minnesota: $97,860 Per Year
Minnesota’s average annual Doctor of Physical Therapy salary is $97,860, or $47.05 per hour. The state projects around 250 job openings each year. The cost of living in Minnesota is below the national average, indexed at 94.8. Minnesota offers a good balance of salary and cost of living for physical therapists.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Mississippi: $95,230 Per Year
Mississippi offers a substantial DPT salary for the region, with an average of $95,230 per year, or $45.79 per hour. The state projects 110 yearly job openings. Mississippi is among the states with the lowest cost of living, indexed at 88.3. Mississippi is a financially attractive location due to its DPT salary and very low cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Missouri: $91,030 Per Year
Missouri offers a Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $91,030 per year, or $43.77 per hour. The state projects 280 job openings annually. The cost of living in Missouri is below the national average, indexed at 88.5. Missouri provides an affordable environment and steady job opportunities for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Montana: $85,550 Per Year
Montana offers a mean annual DPT salary of $85,550, or $41.13 per hour. The state projects about 80 PT jobs annually. The cost of living in Montana is slightly below the national average, indexed at 94.6. Montana, with its natural beauty, offers a lower salary but also a relatively affordable cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Nebraska: $90,870 Per Year
Nebraska offers a Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $90,870 per year, or $43.69 per hour. The state projects a need for around 130 new PTs annually. The cost of living in Nebraska is below the national average, indexed at 93.4. Nebraska provides a stable and affordable environment for physical therapy careers.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Nevada: $111,460 Per Year
Nevada boasts the second-highest physical therapy doctor salary after California, with a mean annual income of $111,460, or $53.59 per hour. The state projects around 140 new PT job openings annually. The cost of living in Nevada is slightly above the national average, indexed at 102.7. Nevada offers a high DPT salary, though the cost of living is also a factor to consider.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in New Hampshire: $95,220 Per Year
New Hampshire offers a Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $95,220 per year, or $45.78 per hour, similar to other Northeastern states. The state projects about 80 new job openings each year. The cost of living in New Hampshire is well above the national average, indexed at 113.6. The DPT salary in New Hampshire is balanced by a higher cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in New Jersey: $109,280 Per Year
New Jersey is the fourth highest-paying state for physical therapists, with an average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $109,280 per year, or $52.54 per hour. The state projects 530 new jobs to open annually. The cost of living in New Jersey is above the national average, indexed at 113.7. New Jersey offers a high DPT salary, but the cost of living is also elevated.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in New Mexico: $98,290 Per Year
New Mexico offers a good average Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $98,290 per year, or $47.26 per hour. The state projects 110 new PT jobs to open yearly. New Mexico’s cost of living is below the national average, indexed at 93.6. New Mexico provides a favorable balance of salary and cost of living for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in New York: $100,810 Per Year
New York offers an average DPT salary of $100,810 per year, or $48.47 per hour. The state, with its large population, projects a substantial 1,370 new PT jobs opening each year. New York has a higher-than-average cost of living, indexed at 123.1. While New York offers a strong DPT salary and many job opportunities, the cost of living is a significant factor.
Bar graph showing states with most annual openings for physical therapists
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in North Carolina: $95,150 Per Year
North Carolina offers a physical therapy doctor salary of $95,150 per year, or $45.74 per hour. The state projects an average of 450 new PT jobs yearly. The cost of living in North Carolina is slightly below the national average, indexed at 98.5. North Carolina provides a reasonable cost of living and a steady job market for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in North Dakota: $88,430 Year
North Dakota pays an annual Dr. of Physical Therapy salary of $88,430, or $42.51 per hour. The state projects about 50 new PT jobs to open each year. The cost of living in North Dakota is below the national average, indexed at 92.8. North Dakota offers a lower salary but also a correspondingly lower cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Ohio: $97,890 Per Year
Ohio offers an average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $97,890 per year, or $47.06 per hour. The state projects an average of 510 new PT jobs each year, indicating growing demand. The cost of living in Ohio is below the national average, indexed at 94.0. Ohio provides a strong job market and an affordable cost of living for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Oklahoma: $95,450 Per Year
Oklahoma pays its physical therapists a mean DPT salary of $95,450 per year, or $45.89 per hour. The state projects an average of 160 new PT jobs each year. Oklahoma has the second-lowest cost of living in the U.S., indexed at 86.4. Oklahoma is a very financially attractive state for DPT professionals due to its salary and extremely low cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Oregon: $100,310 Per Year
Oregon offers a physical therapy doctor salary of $100,310 per year, or $48.22 per hour. The state projects an average of 210 new jobs in the field each year. The cost of living in Oregon is well above the national average, indexed at 114.1. Oregon offers a good DPT salary, but the higher cost of living should be considered.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Pennsylvania: $98,970 Per Year
Pennsylvania’s average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary is just below the national average at $98,970, or $47.58 per hour. The state projects a significant 770 new PT jobs yearly. The cost of living in Pennsylvania is slightly above the national average, indexed at 95.6. Pennsylvania offers a strong job market and a relatively moderate cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Puerto Rico: $52,690 Per Year
Puerto Rico is an outlier with a significantly lower average Doctor of Physical Therapy salary of $52,690 annually, or $25.33 per hour. The territory projects around 40 new physical therapist jobs per year. The cost of living in Puerto Rico is above average, indexed at 102.6. The DPT salary in Puerto Rico is considerably lower than in the mainland U.S., despite a comparable cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Rhode Island: $95,160 Per Year
Rhode Island offers a Dr. of Physical Therapy salary of $95,160 per year, or $45.75 per hour. The state projects 60 new positions to open up each year. The cost of living in Rhode Island is above the national average, indexed at 113.4. Rhode Island provides a reasonable DPT salary, but the cost of living is relatively high.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in South Carolina: $94,280 Per Year
South Carolina offers a Doctorate of Physical Therapy salary of $94,280 per year, or $45.33 per hour. The state projects 220 annual job openings for PTs. The cost of living in South Carolina is below the national average, indexed at 97.6. South Carolina offers a moderate cost of living and a steady job market for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in South Dakota: $89,050 Per Year
South Dakota’s average DPT salary of $89,050, or $42.81 per hour, is adequate considering the state’s below-average cost of living, indexed at 93.4. The state projects roughly 60 new PT positions to open each year. South Dakota offers a lower salary but a correspondingly affordable cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Tennessee: $96,440 Per Year
Tennessee offers PTs an average annual salary of $96,440, or $46.37 per hour. The state projects 320 new job openings each year. The cost of living in Tennessee is below the national average, indexed at 90.3. Tennessee provides a good balance of salary and affordability for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Texas: $106,960 Per Year
Texas pays its physical therapists well, with an average physical therapy doctor salary of $106,960 per year, or $51.42 per hour. USAHS has campuses in Austin and Dallas, Texas. The state projects 1,150 new PT jobs. The cost of living in Texas is below the national average, indexed at 92.4. Texas offers a strong DPT salary and a relatively affordable cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Utah: $96,860 Per Year
Utah’s average DPT salary is $96,860, or $46.57 per hour. The state projects an annual increase of 170 PT jobs through 2030. The cost of living in Utah is slightly above the national average, indexed at 102.9. Utah offers a competitive salary, but the cost of living is somewhat higher.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Vermont: $94,380 Per Year
Vermont offers an average physical therapy doctor salary of $94,380 per year, or $45.38 per hour, with about 50 new PT jobs opening each year. The cost of living in Vermont is above the national average, indexed at 114.7. Vermont provides a moderate DPT salary and a higher cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Virginia: $99,850 Per Year
Virginia offers a good average DPT salary of $99,850 annually, or $48.01 per hour. The state projects about 420 new positions opening each year. Virginia’s cost of living is just slightly above the national average, indexed at 101.3. Virginia offers a competitive salary and a relatively moderate cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Washington: $101,480 Per Year
Washington offers a Dr. of Physical Therapy salary of $101,480 per year, or $48.79 per hour. The state projects a high demand with 850 new jobs each year. The cost of living in Washington is above the national average, indexed at 115.1. Washington provides a strong job market and a good DPT salary, but the cost of living is higher.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in West Virginia: $94,130 Per Year
West Virginia offers an annual DPT salary that can reach $94,130, or $45.25 per hour, with about 110 new job openings each year. West Virginia has the lowest cost of living in the country, indexed at 83.8. West Virginia is a financially attractive state for DPT professionals due to its very low cost of living.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Wisconsin: $95,180 Per Year
Wisconsin offers an average physical therapy doctor salary of $95,180 per year, or $45.76 per hour. The state projects adding 310 PT jobs every year until 2030. Wisconsin’s cost of living is below the national average, indexed at 97.0. Wisconsin provides a reasonable cost of living and a steady job market for DPT professionals.
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary in Wyoming: $93,190 Per Year
Wyoming offers a mean DPT salary of $93,190 per year, or $44.80 per hour. The state projects an average of 40 new PT jobs per year. The cost of living in Wyoming is below the national average, indexed at 95.1. Wyoming offers a lower salary but also a relatively affordable cost of living.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Physical Therapy Careers
Still considering if physical therapy is the right path for you? Explore these frequently asked questions to gain a clearer understanding of the profession.
What Does a Physical Therapist Do?
A physical therapist is a highly trained healthcare professional specializing in helping individuals improve movement, reduce pain, and recover from injuries or illnesses.8 They work with patients across the lifespan, from children to seniors, often as part of a collaborative healthcare team, to enhance their overall quality of life and functional abilities.
What is the Time Commitment to Become a Physical Therapist?
The journey to becoming a physical therapist typically spans five to eight years.become a physical therapist. This includes earning a four-year bachelor’s degree, followed by a focused Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. USAHS offers flexible DPT program options, including a residential program that can be completed in as little as 2.3 years and a flex program blending online and in-person learning that takes approximately 3 years.*
What is the Job Market Outlook for Physical Therapists?
Choosing physical therapy as a career offers strong job security and the satisfaction of making a positive impact on people’s lives. The job outlook for physical therapists is excellent, with the BLS projecting a robust 15% employment growth by 2032, resulting in an average of 13,900 job openings annually.9
What Are the Steps to Become a Physical Therapist?
The typical path to becoming a licensed physical therapist involves these key steps:become a physical therapist
- Earn a Bachelor’s Degree: Focus on a relevant field such as biology, exercise science, or kinesiology to build a strong foundation.
- Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) Program: Enroll in a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree program at an accredited institution.
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE): Successfully pass the NPTE to demonstrate your competency in physical therapy.10
- Obtain State Licensure: Apply for and secure a physical therapy license in the state where you plan to practice.
Which Physical Therapy Specializations Offer the Highest Earning Potential?
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) recognizes 10 distinct specialist certifications for physical therapists. While specific salary data by specialization can vary, some specialized areas may command higher incomes due to advanced skills and focused expertise.11
Enhance Your DPT Salary Potential with a USAHS Degree
USAHS is the nation’s leading conferrer of physical therapy degrees, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in DPT education.*** Since 1979, we have been pioneers in physical therapy education, offering programs led by experienced faculty-practitioners dedicated to guiding you toward a successful physical therapy career.
Understanding that students have diverse needs, we offer several DPT program pathways:
- Residential DPT Pathway: A blended learning approach combining online coursework with intensive on-campus sessions and weekly hands-on labs.
- Hybrid Immersion DPT Pathway****: Primarily online coursework complemented by focused in-person immersion labs, averaging two per term.
- Flex DPT Pathway: Online learning with convenient in-person lab sessions held on select weekends.
Request more information to learn more about our DPT program options and begin your application today to take the first step toward a rewarding and financially stable career in physical therapy.
*Completion time may vary based on individual student progress, program pathway (traditional vs. accelerated), transferred credits, and other factors.
**The salary information on this website is for general informational purposes and based on self-reported data, which is limited and may not be completely accurate or up-to-date.
***Based on the total number of DPT degrees awarded, as reported by the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Data is collected annually by the U.S. Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/.
****The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) is seeking CAPTE approval for a Hybrid Immersion DPT program expansion at its San Marcos, CA, and Miami, FL, campuses. Program expansion approval is required before implementation.
For Hybrid Immersion DPT program inquiries, please use the request for information form on our site.
Salary data may not represent entry-level salaries for recent graduates.
