Physical Therapist Salary 2025: Median $102,760 and How to Become One
The median Physical Therapist earned $102,760 per year in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. That's roughly $49 per hour, with the top 10% of earners taking home over $135,140. The occupation is growing fast — 10.9% over the next decade — and the path to entry requires a doctoral degree and state licensure.
How much Physical Therapists earn
The national median salary for Physical Therapists is $102,760, with a mean wage of $105,280. Half of all PTs earn between $77,140 (10th percentile) and $135,140 (90th percentile). That wide range reflects differences in experience, setting, and location.
- Entry-level PTs (10th percentile): about $77,140
- Experienced PTs (90th percentile): up to $135,140
- Mean hourly wage: $49
Pay by state
Where you practice strongly affects your paycheck. The highest-paying state for Physical Therapists is California, with an average annual wage of $124,190. Alaska comes next at $115,280, followed by New Jersey ($112,140), Nevada ($111,250), and Maryland ($106,890). On the other end, North Dakota pays the least among states with reported data — average $85,330. South Dakota ($92,660) and Montana ($91,450) are also on the lower side. Keep in mind these are BLS estimates from 2024.
How to become a Physical Therapist
Becoming a Physical Therapist in the U.S. requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree from an accredited program. That's a three-year graduate program after earning a bachelor's degree with prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, biology, and psychology. After graduation, you must pass the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) and apply for a state license. Most states also require continuing education to renew the license. The entire process typically takes about 7 years after high school.
- Earn a bachelor's degree with prerequisite courses (1–2 years of science)
- Complete a 3-year DPT program (CAPTE-accredited)
- Pass the NPTE exam
- Obtain state licensure
- Consider optional board certification in a specialty (e.g., orthopedics, neurology)
Job outlook
Employment of Physical Therapists is projected to grow 10.9% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than the average for all occupations. That's about 13,200 job openings each year over the decade, many of which will stem from the need to replace workers who transfer or retire. The aging baby-boom generation and increased demand for rehabilitation services are key drivers. Current employment stands at 267,330 PT positions nationwide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average Physical Therapist salary in 2025?
The median Physical Therapist salary is $102,760 per year, according to the latest BLS data (2024). The mean wage is $105,280, and hourly pay averages $49.
How long does it take to become a Physical Therapist?
It typically takes about 7 years after high school: a 4-year bachelor's degree followed by a 3-year Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Then you must pass the licensure exam.
What is the job growth for Physical Therapists?
The BLS projects 10.9% growth from 2024 to 2034, with about 13,200 annual job openings. That's much faster than average.
Which state pays Physical Therapists the most?
California has the highest average wage at $124,190. Other top-paying states include Alaska ($115,280), New Jersey ($112,140), and Nevada ($111,250).
Do Physical Therapists need a PhD?
No, they need a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), which is a clinical doctorate, not a research PhD. It's a three-year graduate-level program.
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 Therapists data.