How Much Can a Physical Therapist Earn Per Year- A Comprehensive Salary Guide
How Much Does a Physical Therapist Make Per Year?
The field of physical therapy has been growing in popularity over the years, and for good reason. Physical therapists play a crucial role in helping patients recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve their overall quality of life. But how much does a physical therapist make per year? The answer varies depending on several factors, including location, experience, and specialization.
On average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for physical therapists was $89,060 in May 2020. However, this figure can vary significantly from one state to another. For instance, the highest-paying states for physical therapists in 2020 were California, New York, Hawaii, Oregon, and Alaska, where the annual mean wage exceeded $100,000.
Experience is another important factor that affects a physical therapist’s salary. Generally, more experienced therapists tend to earn higher salaries. For example, according to the BLS, the median annual wage for physical therapists with 10 or more years of experience was $98,560 in May 2020, compared to $84,980 for those with less than a year of experience.
Specialization can also play a significant role in determining a physical therapist’s salary. Therapists who specialize in areas such as pediatrics, geriatrics, sports, or orthopedics may command higher salaries due to the demand for their specialized skills. According to the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), specialized physical therapists can earn anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000 more per year than their generalist counterparts.
Geographical location is a critical factor in determining a physical therapist’s salary. As mentioned earlier, some states pay significantly higher salaries than others. Additionally, the cost of living in certain areas can also impact a therapist’s take-home pay. For example, therapists living in high-cost-of-living areas like New York City or San Francisco may have to adjust their expectations for earnings.
When considering a career in physical therapy, it’s important to research the salary expectations in your desired location and specialty. By understanding the factors that influence a physical therapist’s salary, you can make a more informed decision about your future career path.
In conclusion, the question “how much does a physical therapist make per year?” does not have a one-size-fits-all answer. The median annual wage for physical therapists in the U.S. is around $89,060, but this figure can vary significantly based on location, experience, and specialization. By considering these factors, you can better understand the earning potential of a career in physical therapy.
