Respiratory Therapist Salary 2025: $82,280 Median, Fast Growth & How to Start
Respiratory therapists in the U.S. earn a median annual salary of $82,280, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The typical range runs from $63,660 at the 10th percentile to $118,050 at the 90th, with a mean hourly wage of about $40. With a projected growth rate of 12.1% from 2024 to 2034 — much faster than average — and around 8,800 job openings each year, this career offers solid pay and strong demand.
How much Respiratory Therapists earn
The national median salary for respiratory therapists is $82,280 (mean $87,300, about $40/hour). Entry-level positions start around $63,660, while experienced therapists in the top 10% can earn $118,050 or more.
Pay varies significantly by work setting. Hospitals, the largest employer, tend to pay near the median. Nursing care facilities and home healthcare services may offer different ranges. Certification — particularly the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential — often leads to higher pay.
- Median annual salary: $82,280
- 10th percentile: $63,660 | 90th percentile: $118,050
- Mean hourly wage: ~$40
Pay by state
Where you work has a big impact on salary. The highest-paying states for respiratory therapists are District of Columbia ($111,950), New York ($107,810), California ($104,820), Massachusetts ($102,170), and Washington ($101,130). These states generally have higher costs of living and stronger healthcare demand.
On the lower end, South Dakota ($68,240), Alabama ($66,150), and Mississippi ($63,270) report the lowest average salaries. Even in these states, the pay often exceeds local median household income, making it a competitive option.
How to become Respiratory Therapist
The standard path starts with an associate degree in respiratory therapy from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Respiratory Care (CoARC). Many programs also offer bachelor's degrees, which may improve advancement opportunities.
After graduation, you must pass a national exam to become a Certified Respiratory Therapist (CRT). Additional exams and clinical experience lead to the Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) credential, which is preferred by most employers. All states require a state license; requirements vary but typically include education, exam scores, and background check.
- Earn an associate or bachelor's degree from a CoARC-accredited program
- Pass the CRT exam administered by the NBRC
- Obtain state licensure where you plan to work
- Advance to RRT credential for better job prospects
- Maintain certification through continuing education
Job outlook
Employment of respiratory therapists is projected to grow 12.1% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. This translates to about 8,800 job openings each year, many due to replacement of retiring workers.
Drivers include an aging population with higher rates of respiratory conditions like COPD, asthma, and pneumonia. Advances in critical care and neonatal medicine also boost demand. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the essential role of respiratory therapists, and that awareness continues to support hiring.
Frequently asked questions
Do respiratory therapists make good money?
Yes. The median salary is $82,280, well above the national median for all occupations. Top earners exceed $118,000.
What is the highest-paying state for respiratory therapists?
District of Columbia tops the list at $111,950, followed by New York ($107,810) and California ($104,820).
How long does it take to become a respiratory therapist?
An associate degree typically takes two years. After that, passing exams and getting licensed adds a few more months. Some bachelor's programs take four years.
Is respiratory therapy a growing field?
Yes, the BLS projects 12.1% growth from 2024 to 2034, much faster than average, with about 8,800 openings per year.
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 Respiratory Therapists data.