Physical Therapist Assistant Salary 2025: $68,380 Median, 22% Growth
The median annual wage for physical therapist assistants is $68,380, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean hourly wage works out to about $33. This is a job that pays well above the national average for all occupations, and demand is surging. But pay varies a lot by location and experience. The bottom 10% earn less than $47,750; the top 10% take home over $89,510. If you're considering this career, the numbers are worth a close look.
How much Physical Therapist Assistants earn
The national median salary for physical therapist assistants is $68,380 as of May 2023 (the latest BLS data). The mean annual wage is $68,730, or about $33.05 per hour. Most PTAs earn between $47,750 (10th percentile) and $89,510 (90th percentile).
Pay can rise significantly with experience and specialization. PTAs working in home health services or nursing care facilities tend to earn more than those in physical therapy offices. The highest-paid industries include continuing care retirement communities ($75,910 mean) and home health ($74,860).
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. California pays the best, with a mean annual wage of $83,110. Massachusetts follows at $79,460, then New Jersey ($78,440), Texas ($78,000), and Maryland ($77,670).
At the other end, the lowest-paying states for PTAs are South Dakota ($49,310), Oklahoma ($59,480), and West Virginia ($60,430). Keep in mind cost of living when comparing these figures. A $60,000 salary in West Virginia may stretch further than $83,000 in coastal California, but the raw dollar difference is substantial.
How to become Physical Therapist Assistant
To become a PTA, you need an associate degree from an accredited physical therapist assistant program. These are typically two-year programs offered at community colleges and technical schools. Coursework includes anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and hands-on clinical training.
After graduation, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs to get licensed in your state. Most states also require a background check. Licensing requirements vary slightly by state, so check with your state's physical therapy board. The entire process—from starting school to being licensed—usually takes about 2-3 years.
- Complete an accredited PTA associate degree program (typically 2 years).
- Pass the National Physical Therapy Exam (NPTE) for PTAs.
- Apply for state licensure (includes background check).
- Consider specializations (orthopedics, geriatrics, etc.) to boost earning potential.
- Renew license as required by your state (usually every 2 years with continuing education).
Job outlook
Job growth for physical therapist assistants is projected at 22% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS estimates about 19,800 openings each year over the decade, largely from retirements and workers leaving the field.
Driving demand: an aging U.S. population that needs rehabilitation for chronic conditions and injuries, plus a growing emphasis on non-pharmacological pain management. PTAs will be needed in hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and home health. The 112,430 PTAs employed in 2023 could see that number rise sharply. It's a strong career outlook.
Frequently asked questions
Do physical therapist assistants make good money?
Yes. The median salary is $68,380, well above the national median for all occupations. Top earners make over $89,510.
What is the highest-paying state for PTAs?
California, with a mean annual wage of $83,110. Massachusetts, New Jersey, Texas, and Maryland also pay above $77,000.
How long does it take to become a PTA?
About 2-3 years total: a 2-year associate degree, then passing the licensing exam. Some programs are accelerated.
Will PTA jobs grow in the future?
Yes. The BLS projects 22% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 19,800 openings per year.
What is the lowest-paying state for physical therapist assistants?
South Dakota, with a mean wage of $49,310. Other low-paying states include Oklahoma ($59,480) and West Virginia ($60,430).
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 data.