Exercise Physiologist Salary 2025: Median $59,460, 9.5% Growth Projected
The median Exercise Physiologist earns $59,460 per year, according to the latest BLS data. That works out to roughly $29 per hour. The typical range runs from $42,760 at the 10th percentile to $80,560 at the 90th. With only 8,560 jobs nationwide, it's a relatively small field, but demand is growing fast.
How much Exercise Physiologists earn
The BLS reports a mean annual wage of $60,940, with half of all workers falling between the 25th percentile ($49,470) and 75th percentile ($71,400). Entry-level positions typically start around $42,760, while experienced professionals in top roles can push past $80,560.
- National median: $59,460
- Mean annual wage: $60,940 (approx. $29.30/hr)
- 10th percentile: $42,760
- 90th percentile: $80,560
- Employment: 8,560 jobs (2024)
Pay by state
Washington is the highest-paying state for Exercise Physiologists, with an average salary of $81,310. Oregon follows at $71,630, then Minnesota ($67,230), Massachusetts ($65,950), and New Jersey ($64,680). At the lower end, South Carolina averages $46,550, Utah $43,850, and Mississippi $43,060. That's a swing of nearly $38,000 between the highest and lowest states.
How to become an Exercise Physiologist
You need at least a bachelor's degree in exercise physiology, exercise science, kinesiology, or a closely related field. Many employers prefer or require a master's degree for clinical roles. Most states also require certification from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) or the American Society of Exercise Physiologists (ASEP). To sit for the exam, you typically need a degree from an accredited program and a supervised internship. Licensure is mandatory in some states—check with your state's health board. Entry-level jobs often involve patient assessment, designing exercise programs, and working under a physician or physical therapist.
- Earn a bachelor's in exercise physiology, kinesiology, or similar
- Complete a supervised clinical internship (usually 400-600 hours)
- Get certified: ACSM Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist or ASEP Exercise Physiologist
- Check state licensure requirements (growing number of states require it)
- Consider a master's degree for advancement or clinical leadership
Job outlook
Employment of Exercise Physiologists is projected to grow 9.5 percent from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,700 job openings per year over the decade, mostly due to replacement needs and expansion in healthcare settings. The aging population and focus on preventive care drive demand.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for an Exercise Physiologist in 2025?
The BLS reports a median annual wage of $59,460, with a mean of $60,940. Typical pay ranges from $42,760 to $80,560.
What education do I need to become an Exercise Physiologist?
A bachelor's degree in exercise physiology, exercise science, or kinesiology is the minimum. Many clinical roles require a master's degree and certification from ACSM or ASEP.
Is the job outlook for Exercise Physiologists good?
Yes, the BLS projects 9.5% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with roughly 1,700 openings per year.
Which states pay Exercise Physiologists the most?
Washington ($81,310), Oregon ($71,630), Minnesota ($67,230), Massachusetts ($65,950), and New Jersey ($64,680) are the top-paying states.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Exercise Physiologists data.