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Physical Therapist Salary Guide 2026: PT Compensation Data

Complete 2026 PT salary analysis by setting, experience, and state. Essential for healthcare employers.

HealthTal Team
3 min read
Physical Therapist Salary Guide 2026: PT Compensation Data
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Physical Therapist Salary Guide 2026: Complete Compensation Analysis

With 15K annual job openings and 14% projected growth, Physical Therapists remain in high demand. This guide provides employers with essential 2026 compensation benchmarking data.

2026 Physical Therapist Market Overview

Key Statistics

  • Total employment: 262K
  • Median salary: $99,710
  • Projected growth (2024-2034): 14%
  • Annual job openings: 15K

National Salary Distribution

| Percentile | Annual Salary | |------------|---------------| | 25th Percentile | $85,270 | | Median (50th) | $102,710 | | 75th Percentile | $118,440 | | 90th Percentile | $132,000 |

Salary by Experience Level

| Experience | Average Salary | |------------|----------------| | Entry Level (0-2 years) | $78,000 | | Mid-Career (3-7 years) | $95,000 | | Senior (8-15 years) | $112,000 | | Expert (15+ years) | $125,000 |

Salary by Practice Setting

| Setting | Average Salary | |---------|----------------| | Hospital | $98,000 | | Outpatient/Clinic | $95,000 | | Long-Term Care | $92,000 | | Home Health | $100,000 |

  1. Average salary increase: 4.2% year-over-year
  2. Sign-on bonuses: Common for experienced Physical Therapists
  3. Student loan repayment: Growing employer benefit
  4. Flexible scheduling: Premium for work-life balance

Building Competitive Packages

Essential Components

  • Competitive base salary: Benchmark to top 50% of market
  • Comprehensive benefits: Health, retirement, PTO
  • Professional development: CE reimbursement, certification support
  • Work-life balance: Flexible scheduling options

Differentiators

  • Student loan repayment programs
  • Mental health and wellness support
  • Career advancement pathways
  • Modern equipment and technology

Top-Paying States for Physical Therapists

Geographic variation in Physical Therapist salaries reflects cost of living and demand:

  1. California, Massachusetts, Washington - Premium markets
  2. Texas, Florida, Arizona - Growing markets with competitive pay
  3. Rural and underserved areas - Bonus potential

Key Takeaways

  • Median 2026 salary: $99,710
  • 14% growth ensures continued demand
  • Total compensation beyond base salary differentiates employers
  • Benefits innovation attracts top talent

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Physical Therapist salary in 2026?

The national median Physical Therapist salary in 2026 is $99,710, with variation by state, setting, and experience.

What benefits do Physical Therapists value most?

Beyond salary, Physical Therapists prioritize work-life balance, supportive management, professional development, and comprehensive health benefits.


Published: January 2026 | HealthTal Salary Research

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HealthTal Team

HealthTal Team

Healthcare Recruiting Experts

The HealthTal team consists of healthcare recruiting professionals, industry analysts, and HR specialists dedicated to helping healthcare organizations build exceptional teams.

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