What is the typical salary range for physical therapists?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for physical therapists in the United States is projected to grow significantly in the next decade, driven by an aging population and increased focus on physical rehabilitation. This rapid growth raises a key question: What factors are influencing the rising demand for physical therapists, and how does income play a role in attracting and retaining talent in this field? 

As of 2025, physical therapists across the US earn competitive salaries of approximately $113,001. While this is a competitive physical therapy income, factors such as experience, clinic type, and specialization can all impact earnings. For both clinic owners and therapists, understanding these income trends is essential for planning career growth, setting competitive salaries, and optimizing clinic operations.

In this blog, we will understand the salary ranges for physical therapists in California and compare them with the national trends.

Physical Therapist Salary Trends in the US‍

When it comes to an entry-level position, a physical therapist's income typically starts around $109,503. Meanwhile, for a more experienced therapist, the salary range increases to $117,013. This variation is not only dependent on the experience and facility one works in but also varies statewide. Let's compare this with a broader spectrum.

National Salary Comparison

In the US, the median salary for physical therapists is around $99,710, while California stands out as one of the highest-paying states in the field. The state's significantly higher salaries are influenced by its elevated cost of living and the robust demand for healthcare services. 

Let us discuss these key drivers influencing higher physical therapy incomes in detail. 

Factors Influencing Physical Therapist Salaries in the United States‍

Several key factors influence the salaries of physical therapists across the United States, including the cost of living, regional demand, level of expertise, and the type of employment. While PT salary figures can vary by state and city, understanding these factors helps therapists and clinic owners to set competitive salaries and make informed career decisions.

Salary Variations by Location

Physical therapist salaries can vary by region due to factors like local demand, cost of living, and job availability. In metropolitan areas where demand for healthcare services is high, physical therapists often earn more than in rural areas. For instance, therapists in cities like New York or Chicago may see higher salaries compared to those in smaller towns or suburban regions.

Experience and Career Growth

Experience plays a pivotal role in determining salary potential. Entry-level physical therapists across the US typically start with salaries in the mid-range, but with a few years of experience, earnings can increase substantially. Many therapists see pay increases after gaining 5-8 years of experience as they build a reputation and enhance their clinical skills.

High Cost of Living

The cost of living is a major factor that drives salary expectations. In areas with a higher cost of living, such as major urban centers, employers often offer higher compensation to attract and retain talent. This trend is particularly noticeable in areas with expensive housing markets or high operational costs for healthcare businesses.

Impact of Education and Certifications

Practitioners with advanced education or specialized certifications can command higher physical therapy income. Specialized certifications in areas such as pediatric therapy, sports rehabilitation, or balance and vestibular therapy can make therapists more attractive to employers looking for specific skill sets, thus boosting earning potential.

Mobility

PTs who are open to relocation can access higher-paying opportunities in regions with greater demand or higher reimbursement rates. Flexibility in moving to areas experiencing shortages of qualified therapists can lead to increased salary prospects. Additionally, therapists willing to travel between multiple facilities or offer home health services may command higher fees due to the added convenience provided to patients.

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Top-Paying US Physical Therapy Specialties in 2025

In addition to geographic location, a physical therapist's specialization can impact their income. Below are some of the top-paying industries and specialties for physical therapists, based on the most recent data available for 2025:

Work Environment and Salary Variations in the US

PT salaries can vary depending on the work environment and specialized skills, with better work settings and advanced expertise often leading to higher pay. Let’s explore this more closely.

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Generic Salaries Overview

• Entry-level physical therapists generally earn around $70,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on the location and type of facility.
• Experienced physical therapists with specialized expertise or who work in high-demand areas can earn between $90,000 and $120,000, with variations based on geographic region, specialization, and work setting.
• Public sector therapists typically earn less in base salary but may benefit from better long-term benefits such as pensions and comprehensive health coverage.

Hourly Wages and Contract Options

Hourly wages and contract options provide physical therapists with additional avenues for income and work-life balance. The mean hourly wage for physical therapists in the US is approximately $51.04, although this can vary based on experience and location. 

Additionally, choosing hourly contracts offers physical therapists flexibility in their work schedules, making it an attractive option for those seeking part-time work or managing multiple jobs. This flexibility allows for a better work-life balance, particularly in regions with varying demands for physical therapy services.

Hourly wages can vary based on several factors, including:

• Experience: More experienced therapists typically command higher rates.
• Location: Salaries differ across cities; for instance, physical therapists in San Jose earn an average of $65.58 per hour, while those in Los Angeles earn around $72 per hour.
• Type of Facility: Therapists working in outpatient care centers tend to earn more, averaging about $59.57 per hour, compared to those in general medical hospitals, who earn around $50.25 per hour.

Also, the salary varies with the type of contract options.

• Hourly Contracts: Many physical therapists opt for hourly contracts, which provide flexibility in their work schedules. This arrangement is particularly beneficial for those seeking part-time work or managing multiple jobs.
• Travel Therapy: Travel therapists take on temporary assignments in various locations, often earning higher wages due to short-term contracts and additional benefits such as housing stipends. For example, travel therapists can earn upwards of $80 per hour, depending on the assignment and location. 

Physical therapists across the United States benefit from competitive hourly wages and various contract options that enhance their work-life balance and income potential. By considering factors such as location, specialization, and employment type, therapists can strategically shape their careers for optimal financial and personal satisfaction.

As you navigate your career and clinic management, optimizing your billing process is key to financial success. With SPRY’s billing software, you can maximize revenue, streamline operations, and get reimbursed faster. Upgrade your billing today! 

Now that we have learned about hourly compensation and contract options, let us further understand the employment growth and compensation outlook in detail. 

PT Salary Outlook and Employment Growth in the US

Physical therapy positions across the United States are expected to see strong growth in the coming years. The increasing recognition of the benefits of physical therapy for sports injuries, post-operative care, and managing chronic conditions is contributing to the rising demand for qualified professionals.

Employment prospects are expanding across various settings, including outpatient clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities, offering prospective physical therapists a diverse range of career options. Below is a closer look at projected employment growth, salary expectations, and the key factors driving these trends nationwide.

Employment Growth

Across the United States, the demand for physical therapists is on the rise, with employment projected to grow by 14% between 2023 and 2033, making it one of the fastest-growing professions in the country. This growth is primarily driven by the aging population, who require more rehabilitation services, along with an increasing emphasis on preventive healthcare.

The US is expected to see a significant number of new job openings for physical therapists each year, with thousands of positions becoming available due to both new demand and the need to replace retiring professionals. These opportunities are particularly strong in outpatient clinics, hospitals, and rehabilitation facilities, offering physical therapists a broad range of career paths and specialization options.

Suggested read: Understanding the Average Growth Percent of a Small Physical Therapy Industry

Salary Outlook

Here is a breakdown of the average PT salaries in different states to give a clearer picture of how physical therapist incomes vary across the U.S. This table highlights the salary differences based on location, helping you understand regional compensation trends for physical therapists.

Board-Certified Specialization Salaries

The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) Specialist Certification program offers ten clinical specialties for physical therapists. Salaries can differ based on location, skills, and job type. Here are some average salaries for these specializations in the U.S.:

Factors Driving PT Demand in California

Several factors are contributing to the rising demand for physical therapy services in California, making it an attractive field for both current professionals and those entering the industry.

• Aging Population: California’s growing elderly population is a significant driver of demand. As baby boomers age, more individuals require rehabilitation for age-related health conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, and balance issues, all of which are effectively managed through physical therapy.
• Preventive Healthcare: There is a rising focus on preventive care and wellness, positioning physical therapy as a key component of overall health management. People are increasingly seeking physical therapy services to prevent injuries and manage chronic conditions, contributing to the growing demand for PTs across the state.
• Increased Awareness: Public awareness of the benefits of physical therapy has grown considerably. From sports injury recovery to post-operative rehabilitation and chronic illness management, more people are recognizing the role of physical therapy in improving quality of life. This heightened awareness is leading to increased utilization of physical therapy services statewide.
• Stat Example: By 2030, California’s elderly population is expected to exceed 9 million, which will dramatically increase the need for rehabilitation services.

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Top Paying Cities for Physical Therapists in California

Physical therapist income varies greatly throughout California, with metropolitan locations giving some of the best pay in the country. The following are the top cities where physical therapists earn the most.

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• San Francisco: Due to its high cost of living and high demand for healthcare services, San Francisco has the highest median annual wage of approximately $131,050 and leads as one of the highest-paying cities for physical therapists.
• Los Angeles: Physical therapists in Los Angeles earn around $117,000 annually, profiting from the vast population and different healthcare demands.
• San Diego: In San Diego, the average pay is over $112,000, reflecting the city's thriving healthcare industry and appealing lifestyle.
• San Jose: Due to the city's closeness with tech hubs and IT industries, San Jose is regarded as a wealthy city. Therefore, it provides physical therapists with an advantage in earning more, with an average of $131,930. 
• Sacramento: Physical therapists make an average of $131,760 and are in high demand in both public and commercial healthcare settings.

Tips for Achieving a Higher PT Salary

Boost your earning potential as a PT by focusing on specialization, strategic geographic choices, and effective salary negotiation.

• Specialization: Combining management with PT practice can lead to roles like Rehabilitation Director ($92,373), Physical Therapy Director ($91,894), Director of Managed Care ($123,219), and Senior Director of Clinical Services ($134,498).
• Geographic Targeting: PT salaries can differ based on city and state. It's beneficial to compare nationwide salary averages with the cost of living to identify the best opportunities.
• Negotiation: When accepting a new PT job or seeking a salary raise, it's crucial to advocate for oneself. Researching salary ranges in your area and highlighting your qualifications can be beneficial during negotiations.

Loan Forgiveness Programs for Physical Therapists

For physical therapists who are struggling with debt from their schooling, loan forgiveness programs provide an alluring alternative. Therefore, physical therapists working in qualified public or nonprofit organizations can apply for federal programs like Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), which provide a means of financial relief.

Additionally, California supports state-specific initiatives like the California State Loan Repayment Program (SLRP), which grants therapists practicing in underprivileged areas a partial loan forgiveness.

Therapists usually have to work in specific facilities for at least 10 years and make 120 qualifying payments to be eligible for these loan forgiveness programs. To be considered, applicants must submit their applications and employment documentation.

Conclusion

If you are looking to start your career or wondering if it's still fruitful to continue your career as a Physical therapist, the income potential in California proves to be promising. Therefore, it is evident that, as a physical therapist in California, you have a rewarding career path. Additionally, according to various reports, it is clear that the salaries of physical therapists regularly surpass the national average.

If you’re ready to advance your physical therapy career, SPRYPT is your trusted partner. SPRYPT offers powerful tools designed to streamline your clinic operations, from automated billing to real-time performance tracking. 

With features like intuitive software integrations and seamless management solutions, SPRYPT empowers you to focus on what matters most—delivering quality care to your patients. Ready to elevate your career? Book a demo today and discover how SPRY PT can help you thrive!