Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides earn $61,200 median salary in 2025
The median salary for Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides hit $61,200 in 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's roughly $29 per hour for the roughly 160,580 people working in these roles across the United States. The actual pay spread is wide: the bottom 10% earn around $31,180, while the top 10% take home more than $83,420.
How much Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides earn
The BLS estimate shows the national mean wage at $59,040, just a shade below the median. Most workers fall between the 10th and 90th percentiles. Experience, setting, and location drive the differences. Physical therapist aides typically earn less than assistants, but the BLS groups them together.
The typical hourly rate works out to about $29.40. Entry-level positions pay closer to $15 an hour, while seasoned professionals in high-demand settings can exceed $40.
- National median: $61,200 per year
- Mean annual wage: $59,040 ($29.40/hour)
- 10th percentile: $31,180
- 90th percentile: $83,420
Pay by state
Because the BLS does not publish state-level figures for this occupation, salary variations by state are not available from official sources. However, states with higher cost of living and stronger healthcare sectors typically pay more. California, Texas, Florida, and New York employ the largest numbers.
How to become a Physical Therapist Assistant or Aide
The path differs for assistants versus aides. Physical therapist assistants need an associate degree from a CAPTE-accredited program and must pass a state exam to get licensed or certified. Aides typically need a high school diploma and learn on the job. Both roles require passing a background check and possibly a CPR certification.
Associate programs take about two years and include clinical rotations. After graduation, you take the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs. Many states also require continuing education.
- Complete a high school diploma or GED.
- For PTA: Earn an associate degree in physical therapist assisting from an accredited program.
- For PTA: Pass the NPTE and apply for state licensure.
- For aide: Apply for entry-level positions; on-the-job training provided.
- Maintain CPR certification and meet state renewal requirements.
Job outlook
The BLS projects employment of physical therapist assistants and aides to grow substantially over the next decade. An aging population needing rehabilitation services, combined with increased demand for physical therapy, drives the need. For 2024–2034, the projected growth is not available at this time, but historical trends indicate strong expansion.
Frequently asked questions
Do physical therapist assistants make more than aides?
Yes. The BLS groups them together, but assistants with an associate degree and license earn significantly more—often $20,000–$30,000 more per year than aides.
What is the hourly wage for a physical therapist assistant?
The national mean hourly wage is about $29.40, with a range from about $15 at entry level to $40+ for top earners.
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 Physical Therapist Assistants and Aides data.