A Doctor of Physical Therapy faculty-practitioner instructs USAHS DPT students.
Embarking on a career path with a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree not only positions you for impactful work in healthcare but also promises significant financial rewards. For those considering this profession, understanding the earning potential is crucial. Let’s delve into what you can expect to earn as a DPT graduate in the United States, with a detailed look at salary variations across different states.
The national median Doctor of Physical Therapy salary stands at an impressive $99,710 annually. However, this figure is just the starting point. Your actual DPT salary can be influenced by a range of factors, with location playing a pivotal role. Exploring salary expectations across different U.S. states and territories is essential for anyone planning their career in physical therapy.
Table of Contents:
Doctor of Physical Therapy Salary Across the United States
If you’re wondering about your financial future after earning your physical therapy doctorate and securing your license, let’s explore the landscape of DPT salaries across the U.S. Whether you’re considering relocating or staying within your current state, understanding the salary dynamics is key.
The following table provides a comprehensive overview of Doctor of Physical Therapy salaries by state. The data is sourced from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), job opening projections are from the Projections Managing Partnership (PMP), and cost of living index scores are provided by the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center. Please note that the BLS data is current as of April 2024, and average salaries may fluctuate.
This detailed salary information will help you make informed decisions as you consider, is a DPT degree a worthwhile investment? We believe the data strongly supports that it is.
| State | Hourly Mean Wage | Annual Mean Wage | Annual Job Openings | Cost of Living Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
DPT Salary in Alabama: $96,950 Annually
In Alabama, a Doctor of Physical Therapy can expect an average annual salary of $96,950, which translates to an hourly wage of $46.61. This is particularly appealing in a state where the cost of living is notably lower than the national average. Projections indicate a steady demand for physical therapists in Alabama, with approximately 170 job openings expected each year through 2030. The cost of living index in Alabama is 88.1, making it a financially sensible location for DPT professionals.
DPT Salary in Alaska: $110,830 Annually
Alaska emerges as the third highest-paying state for physical therapists in the U.S., offering an impressive average annual DPT salary of $110,830, or $53.28 per hour. While the projected annual job openings are fewer at 30, this is proportional to Alaska’s smaller population. The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average, indexed at 125.1, which is important to consider despite the higher salary.
DPT Salary in Arizona: $98,960 Annually
Arizona offers a competitive annual DPT salary of $98,960, or $47.58 per hour, reflecting a strong demand for healthcare professionals in the state. With a robust projection of 430 physical therapy job openings annually until 2030, Arizona presents ample opportunities. The cost of living index in Arizona is 110.5, placing it above the national average.
DPT Salary in Arkansas: $92,270 Annually
Physical therapists in Arkansas can earn an average annual salary of $92,270, or $44.36 per hour. The state anticipates around 140 job openings for PTs each year, providing solid career prospects. Arkansas boasts a cost of living index of 88.5, which is below the national average, making it a cost-effective state for DPT professionals.
DPT Salary in California: $114,270 Annually
California leads the nation as the highest-paying state for physical therapists, with an exceptional average annual DPT salary of $114,270, or $54.94 per hour. The demand for PTs is substantial in California, driven by a culture that values fitness and sports, with approximately 1,550 projected job openings each year. However, the cost of living in California is the second highest in the U.S., with an index of 145.0. For those aiming to study in California, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) San Marcos campus is a notable option.
DPT Salary in Colorado: $98,000 Annually
Colorado offers an attractive average annual physical therapy doctor salary of $98,000, or $47.12 per hour. The state projects about 440 new job openings for PTs annually, indicating a healthy job market. The cost of living in Colorado is slightly above the national average, with an index of 101.8.
DPT Salary in Connecticut: $103,870 Annually
Connecticut ranks as the ninth highest-paying state for physical therapists, with an average annual DPT salary of $103,870, or $49.94 per hour. With around 220 job openings projected each year, Connecticut offers promising opportunities, especially for those considering relocation. The cost of living in Connecticut is considerably higher than the national average, at 113.2.
DPT Salary in Delaware: $104,530 Annually
In Delaware, DPT professionals can expect to earn an average annual salary of $104,530, or $50.26 per hour. The state anticipates approximately 70 new physical therapy job openings each year. Delaware’s cost of living index is 100.9, slightly above the national average.
DPT Salary in District of Columbia (D.C.): $103,550 Annually
Washington D.C. offers an average annual DPT salary of $103,550, or $49.78 per hour. While the number of annual job openings is around 40, D.C. can be an ideal location for starting a private practice. However, the cost of living in D.C. is among the highest in the nation, with an index of 144.6, only surpassed by Hawaii and California.
DPT Salary in Florida: $94,850 Annually
Florida provides a sunny and financially viable environment for physical therapists, with an average annual DPT salary of $94,850, or $45.60 per hour. The state projects a high number of job openings, around 1,040 per year, possibly due to its large retiree population. The cost of living in Florida is slightly above the national average, at 103.1. Notably, USAHS has campuses in St. Augustine and Miami, Florida.
DPT Salary in Georgia: $99,860 Annually
Georgia offers an attractive average annual DPT salary of $99,860, or $48.01 per hour. The state is experiencing significant growth in the physical therapy sector, with about 470 new job openings expected each year. The cost of living in Georgia is below the national average, indexed at 91.3.
DPT Salary in Hawaii: $103,010 Annually
Hawaii, despite its high cost of living, offers a respectable average annual DPT salary of $103,010, or $49.52 per hour. However, prospective PTs should be aware that Hawaii has the highest cost of living in the U.S., with an index of 186.2. The projected annual job openings are around 50.
DPT Salary in Idaho: $92,400 Annually
Idaho provides an average annual DPT salary of $92,400, or $44.42 per hour. The state projects approximately 120 new PT job openings annually. The cost of living in Idaho is slightly above the national average, with an index of 101.1.
DPT Salary in Illinois: $104,640 Annually
Illinois offers a robust average annual DPT salary of $104,640, or $50.31 per hour. The demand for physical therapists in Illinois is strong, with about 500 new job openings projected each year. The cost of living in Illinois is below the national average, at 93.3.
DPT Salary in Indiana: $96,760 Annually
Indiana’s average annual DPT salary is $96,760, or $46.52 per hour. The state anticipates needing around 310 new PTs each year through 2030. Indiana has a cost of living index of 90.3, below the national average.
DPT Salary in Iowa: $91,850 Annually
Iowa offers an average annual DPT salary of $91,850, or $44.16 per hour. With approximately 160 new PT jobs expected annually, Iowa can be a viable option for physical therapists. The cost of living in Iowa is below the national average, with an index of 90.1.
Highest-paying states for physical therapists
A visual representation of the highest-paying states for physical therapists in the United States, emphasizing states like California, Nevada, and New Jersey.
DPT Salary in Kansas: $93,780 Annually
Kansas offers a solid average annual DPT salary of $93,780, or $45.09 per hour. With around 140 new job openings annually, Kansas is a strong contender in the Midwest for PT professionals. Kansas is also one of the most affordable states to live in, with a cost of living index of 87.3.
DPT Salary in Kentucky: $87,480 Annually
In Kentucky, physical therapists can earn an average annual salary of $87,480, or $42.06 per hour. The state projects about 200 new PT job openings each year. The cost of living in Kentucky is below the national average, at 92.6.
DPT Salary in Louisiana: $97,830 Annually
Louisiana stands out with a higher average annual DPT salary of $97,830, or $47.04 per hour. The state expects around 160 PT job openings annually. Adding to its appeal, Louisiana has a below-average cost of living, with an index of 92.1.
DPT Salary in Maine: $91,720 Annually
Maine provides an average annual DPT salary of $91,720, or $44.10 per hour, which, while lower compared to some states, still exceeds the national median household income. Maine is projected to have about 60 new PT jobs annually. The cost of living in Maine is above the national average, at 111.3.
DPT Salary in Maryland: $105,520 Annually
Maryland offers an attractive average annual DPT salary of $105,520, or $50.73 per hour. Coupled with approximately 340 annual job openings, Maryland is a highly favorable location for physical therapists. The cost of living in Maryland is above the national average, with an index of 116.2.
DPT Salary in Massachusetts: $99,700 Annually
Massachusetts provides an average annual physical therapy doctor salary of $99,700, or $47.93 per hour. The state anticipates around 520 new job openings each year for PTs. However, the cost of living in Massachusetts is the fourth highest in the U.S., with an index of 144.3.
DPT Salary in Michigan: $95,450 Annually
Michigan offers an average annual DPT salary of $95,450, or $45.89 per hour. The state projects around 490 job openings annually for physical therapists. The cost of living in Michigan is below the national average, indexed at 91.8.
DPT Salary in Minnesota: $97,860 Annually
Minnesota’s average annual DPT salary is $97,860, or $47.05 per hour. The state projects about 250 job openings each year for PTs across various settings. The cost of living in Minnesota is below the national average, with an index of 94.8.
DPT Salary in Mississippi: $95,230 Annually
Mississippi offers a substantial average annual DPT salary of $95,230, or $45.79 per hour, especially considering the area’s cost of living. The state projects around 110 job openings annually. Mississippi is among the five most affordable states, with a cost of living index of 88.3.
DPT Salary in Missouri: $91,030 Annually
Missouri provides an average annual DPT salary of $91,030, or $43.77 per hour. With approximately 280 job openings each year, Missouri offers ample opportunities for PTs. The cost of living in Missouri is below the national average, at 88.5.
DPT Salary in Montana: $85,550 Annually
Montana offers an average annual DPT salary of $85,550, or $41.13 per hour. Given Montana’s lower population density, about 80 new PT jobs are projected annually. The cost of living in Montana is below the national average, at 94.6.
DPT Salary in Nebraska: $90,870 Annually
Nebraska offers an average annual DPT salary of $90,870, or $43.69 per hour. The state anticipates needing around 130 new PTs annually. The cost of living in Nebraska is below the national average, at 93.4.
DPT Salary in Nevada: $111,460 Annually
Nevada ranks as the second highest-paying state for physical therapists, with an average annual income of $111,460, or $53.59 per hour. The state projects about 140 new PT job openings annually. The cost of living in Nevada is slightly above the national average, with an index of 102.7.
DPT Salary in New Hampshire: $95,220 Annually
New Hampshire offers an average annual DPT salary of $95,220, or $45.78 per hour, similar to other Northeastern states. The state expects about 80 new job openings annually. The cost of living in New Hampshire is well above the national average, at 113.6.
DPT Salary in New Jersey: $109,280 Annually
New Jersey is the fourth highest-paying state for physical therapists, with an average annual DPT salary of $109,280, or $52.54 per hour. The state projects a robust 530 new job openings each year. The cost of living in New Jersey is above the national average, at 113.7.
DPT Salary in New Mexico: $98,290 Annually
New Mexico offers a competitive average annual DPT salary of $98,290, or $47.26 per hour. The state anticipates around 110 new PT jobs annually. The cost of living in New Mexico is below the national average, at 93.6.
DPT Salary in New York: $100,810 Annually
New York provides an average annual DPT salary of $100,810, or $48.47 per hour. Given New York’s large population, it’s projected to have approximately 1,370 new PT jobs annually. However, New York has a higher-than-average cost of living, with an index of 123.1.
States with the most annual openings for physical therapists
A bar chart illustrating states with the highest number of annual job openings for physical therapists, highlighting states like California and New York.
DPT Salary in North Carolina: $95,150 Annually
North Carolina offers an average annual physical therapy doctor salary of $95,150, or $45.74 per hour. The state projects approximately 450 new PT jobs annually. The cost of living in North Carolina is below the national average, at 98.5.
DPT Salary in North Dakota: $88,430 Annually
North Dakota provides an average annual DPT salary of $88,430, or $42.51 per hour. About 50 new PT jobs are expected to open annually in the state. The cost of living in North Dakota is below the national average, at 92.8.
DPT Salary in Ohio: $97,890 Annually
Ohio offers an average annual DPT salary of $97,890, or $47.06 per hour. The state projects a growing demand for PTs, with about 510 new jobs annually. The cost of living in Ohio is below the national average, at 94.0.
DPT Salary in Oklahoma: $95,450 Annually
Oklahoma offers a decent average annual DPT salary of $95,450, or $45.89 per hour. The state anticipates around 160 new PT jobs each year. Oklahoma has the second-lowest cost of living in the U.S., with an index of 86.4.
DPT Salary in Oregon: $100,310 Annually
Oregon provides an average annual physical therapy doctor salary of $100,310, or $48.22 per hour. The state projects about 210 new PT jobs annually. The cost of living in Oregon is above the national average, at 114.1.
DPT Salary in Pennsylvania: $98,970 Annually
Pennsylvania’s average annual DPT salary is slightly below the national average at $98,970, or $47.58 per hour. However, it’s a promising state for career entry, with approximately 770 new PT jobs expected annually. The cost of living in Pennsylvania is just above the national average, at 95.6.
DPT Salary in Puerto Rico: $52,690 Annually
Puerto Rico is an outlier with a significantly lower average annual DPT salary of $52,690, or $25.33 per hour. About 40 new physical therapist jobs are expected to open annually. The cost of living in Puerto Rico is above average, at 102.6.
DPT Salary in Rhode Island: $95,160 Annually
Rhode Island offers a reasonably high average annual DPT salary of $95,160, or $45.75 per hour for the region. The state projects about 60 new PT positions annually. The cost of living in Rhode Island is above the national average, at 113.4.
DPT Salary in South Carolina: $94,280 Annually
South Carolina offers an average annual DPT salary of $94,280, or $45.33 per hour. The state projects approximately 220 annual job openings for PTs. The cost of living in South Carolina is below the national average, at 97.6.
DPT Salary in South Dakota: $89,050 Annually
South Dakota’s average annual DPT salary is $89,050, or $42.81 per hour. Considering the state’s below-average cost of living (index of 93.4), this salary is quite adequate. About 60 new PT positions open each year.
DPT Salary in Tennessee: $96,440 Annually
Tennessee provides an average annual salary for PTs of $96,440, or $46.37 per hour. With approximately 320 new job openings projected annually, Tennessee is a growing market for physical therapists. The cost of living in Tennessee is below the national average, at 90.3.
DPT Salary in Texas: $106,960 Annually
Texas is a high-paying state for physical therapists, with an average annual DPT salary of $106,960, or $51.42 per hour. Texas is also home to two USAHS campuses and projects about 1,150 new PT jobs annually. The cost of living in Texas is below the national average, at 92.4.
DPT Salary in Utah: $96,860 Annually
Utah offers an average annual DPT salary of $96,860, or $46.57 per hour. The state projects an annual increase of 170 PT jobs until 2030. The cost of living in Utah is above the national average, at 102.9.
DPT Salary in Vermont: $94,380 Annually
Vermont provides an average annual physical therapy doctor salary of $94,380, or $45.38 per hour. The state expects about 50 new PT jobs opening each year. The cost of living in Vermont is above the national average, at 114.7.
DPT Salary in Virginia: $99,850 Annually
Virginia offers a strong average annual DPT salary of $99,850, or $48.01 per hour. The state’s physical therapy sector is growing, with about 420 new positions opening each year. Virginia’s cost of living is slightly above the national average, at 101.3.
DPT Salary in Washington: $101,480 Annually
Washington state offers an average annual DPT salary of $101,480, or $48.79 per hour. There’s a high demand, with approximately 850 new jobs projected each year. The cost of living in Washington is above the national average, at 115.1.
DPT Salary in West Virginia: $94,130 Annually
West Virginia provides an average annual DPT salary of $94,130, or $45.25 per hour. The state projects about 110 new job openings each year. West Virginia has the lowest cost of living in the U.S., with an index of 83.8.
DPT Salary in Wisconsin: $95,180 Annually
Wisconsin offers an average annual physical therapy doctor salary of $95,180, or $45.76 per hour. Wisconsin is expected to add 310 PT jobs every year until 2030. Wisconsin’s cost of living is below the national average, at 97.0.
DPT Salary in Wyoming: $93,190 Annually
Wyoming offers an average annual DPT salary of $93,190, or $44.80 per hour. About 40 new PT jobs are estimated per year in the state. The cost of living in Wyoming is below the national average, at 95.1.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Physical Therapist
Considering a career in physical therapy? Here are answers to common questions to help you decide if this path is right for you.
What Does a Physical Therapist Do?
Physical therapists are essential healthcare professionals who assist individuals in improving movement, reducing pain, and recovering from injuries or illnesses. They work with patients across all age groups and are integral to enhancing patients’ overall quality of life as part of a comprehensive healthcare team.
What is the Timeline to Become a Physical Therapist?
The journey to becoming a physical therapist typically spans five to eight years. It begins with a four-year bachelor’s degree, often in a related field, followed by a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. USAHS offers both a residential DPT program that can be completed in 2.3 years and a flexible hybrid program that takes 3 years. *
What is the Job Market Outlook for Physical Therapists?
Physical therapy is a promising career with excellent job prospects. The BLS projects a 15% growth in employment for physical therapists by 2032, with an average of 13,900 job openings annually. This strong outlook underscores the growing demand for skilled physical therapists.
What Are the Steps to Become a Physical Therapist?
To become a licensed physical therapist, you generally need to:
- Earn a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as biology or kinesiology.
- Complete a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program.
- Successfully pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
- Obtain state licensure to practice.
Which Physical Therapy Specializations Offer Higher Earning Potential?
The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) recognizes ten specialist certifications for physical therapists. While income can vary based on specialization, some areas may offer higher earning potential due to increased demand or specialized skills required.
Maximize Your DPT Salary Potential with a USAHS Degree
The University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) is the leading institution in conferring physical therapy degrees in the nation.** As a pioneer in physical therapy education since 1979, USAHS provides unparalleled faculty-practitioners to guide you through your DPT education.
Understanding the diverse needs of aspiring physical therapists, USAHS offers multiple pathways to earn your DPT:
- Residential DPT Pathway: A blended learning model combining online coursework with intensive on-campus lab sessions each week.
- Hybrid Immersion DPT Pathway****: Primarily online coursework complemented by immersive on-campus labs approximately twice per term.
- Flex DPT Pathway: Online learning with in-person lab sessions conducted on select weekends.
Request More Information about our DPT programs and Apply Today to take the first step toward a fulfilling and financially rewarding career in physical therapy.
*Time to completion varies based on individual student progress, pathway choice, transferred credits, and other factors.
**Salary data may not represent starting salaries for recent graduates and is based on self-reported data intended for general information. Data accuracy is subject to the limitations of voluntary submissions.
***Based on the total number of DPT degrees conferred, as reported by IPEDS. Data from interrelated surveys by the U.S. Department of Education’s NCES.
****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 prior to implementation. Contact an enrollment advisor for details.
