PT Assistant Salary: PTA Pay in 2024

May 2024 · 13 minute read

Aspiring physical therapy assistants (PTAs) may wonder about their earning potential in this rewarding field. In this section, we will explore the salary trends for PTAs in the United States in 2023, providing a comprehensive understanding of the physical therapy assistant salary range.

Before delving into the details, it’s important to note that physical therapy assistants play a crucial role in helping patients recover from injuries and illnesses. PTAs work under the supervision of licensed physical therapists, providing supportive care to patients through exercises, stretches, and other interventions. The demand for physical therapy assistants is expected to continue growing, which makes this a promising career path for those interested in the healthcare industry.

physical therapy assistant salary

Understanding the Role of a Physical Therapy Assistant

A physical therapy assistant (PTA) is a healthcare professional who works alongside physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries or illnesses. They assist with exercises, stretches, and other therapeutic modalities to improve patient mobility and function. They also help patients learn how to use equipment, such as crutches or wheelchairs, and provide guidance on how to perform daily activities safely.

The salary of a PTA can vary depending on the state or city in which they work. For example, PTAs in California may earn a higher salary than those in Texas due to differences in cost of living. It’s important to research the average physical therapy assistant salary by state or city when considering this career path.

Physical Therapy Assistant Salary by State

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average physical therapy assistant salary in the United States was $59,770 in 2020. However, this number can vary significantly by state. For example, the average salary for PTAs in California is $67,150, while in Texas, it’s $57,770. Other states with higher than average salaries for PTAs include New Jersey, Alaska, and Massachusetts.

It’s important to note that while the salary range for PTAs can vary by state, so can the job outlook and demand. It’s important to consider both factors when deciding where to work as a PTA.

Physical Therapy Assistant Salary in (City)

In addition to variations in salary by state, the salary of a PTA can also vary by city. For example, the average physical therapy assistant salary in Los Angeles is $71,150, while in Houston, it’s $57,840. Other cities with higher than average salaries for PTAs include San Francisco, Boston, and New York.

It’s important to research the average physical therapy assistant salary in your desired city when considering this career path. It’s also important to consider the cost of living in a particular city, as a higher salary may not necessarily mean a higher standard of living.

Overall, the role of a physical therapy assistant is rewarding and can offer a competitive salary. By researching the average physical therapy assistant salary by state and city, individuals can make informed decisions about where to work and negotiate a fair salary for their skills and experience.

physical therapy assistant salary by state

Several factors can affect the salary of a physical therapy assistant. These include the type of facility where they work, their level of education and experience, and the region or state where they are employed.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for physical therapy assistants in the United States is $59,770. However, this figure can vary widely depending on the setting in which they work. For instance, PTAs working in nursing care facilities tend to earn a higher salary compared to those working in other settings.

Experience and education can also impact salary. Physical therapy assistants with more years of experience and advanced degrees may earn more compared to entry-level PTAs. Additionally, the location of the job can affect the salary. Physical therapy assistant salaries may differ significantly from state to state or even within different regions of the same state.

A physical therapy assistant salary comparison across different settings will reveal which type of facility offers the highest paying jobs. Some of the highest paying physical therapy assistant jobs include positions in nursing care facilities, home healthcare services, and management, scientific, and technical consulting services.

It’s worth noting that salary figures can differ depending on the source of information used. For example, the BLS reports a significantly lower average salary for physical therapy assistants compared to some other sources.

physical therapy assistant salary

Despite potential variations in salary, physical therapy assistant jobs are expected to grow by 29% between 2019 and 2029, according to the BLS. This growth rate is much faster than the average for all occupations. This demand for physical therapy assistants is driven in part by an aging population that is in need of physical therapy services.

In the next section, we will examine the average physical therapy assistant salary in the United States and how it has trended over time.

Average Physical Therapy Assistant Salary in the United States

Physical therapy assistants play a critical role in helping patients recover from injuries and illnesses. So, what is the average salary for physical therapy assistants in the United States?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the average annual salary for PTAs in the United States is $59,770 as of May 2020. This figure is slightly higher than the reported average salary of $58,520 in May 2019. The BLS predicts that employment for PTAs is expected to grow by 33% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average growth rate for other occupations.

According to the BLS, the top-paying industries for PTAs are nursing and residential care facilities, followed by home healthcare services. The states that pay PTAs the highest salaries are Texas, California, New Jersey, Nevada, and Connecticut.

average physical therapy assistant salary

It’s worth noting that salaries for PTAs can vary depending on factors such as location, experience, and education. PTAs who work in urban areas or in states with higher costs of living may earn higher salaries compared to those who work in rural areas. Additionally, PTAs who have earned a bachelor’s degree or advanced certifications may have higher earning potential.

Overall, the average salary for physical therapy assistants in the United States is on the rise. With expected job growth and potential for career advancement, pursuing a career as a PTA can be a lucrative and rewarding option for those interested in the healthcare field.

State-by-State Breakdown of Physical Therapy Assistant Salaries

When it comes to physical therapy assistant salaries, location can play a significant role. As such, it’s important to consider the average salaries for this profession across different states.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary for physical therapy assistants in the United States is $58,520 as of May 2020. However, this figure can vary significantly from state to state.

StateAverage Annual Salary
California$71,470
Texas$57,710
Florida$54,860
New York$52,680
Pennsylvania$52,020

As you can see, physical therapy assistants in California tend to earn higher salaries than those in other states, with an average annual salary of $71,470. By contrast, physical therapy assistants in Pennsylvania earn an average of $52,020 per year.

It’s also worth noting that the cost of living can impact the value of these salaries. For example, an average salary of $52,020 might go further in Pennsylvania than in California due to differences in housing and other expenses.

Comparing physical therapy assistant salaries by state is just one way to understand the earning potential of this profession. Keep in mind that other factors, such as experience, education, and work setting, can also impact how much you can earn as a PTA.

Physical Therapy Assistant Salary by State

While physical therapy assistants can earn a decent salary across a variety of settings, some roles offer higher salaries than others. These high-paying PTA jobs typically require specialized skills or additional education. Here are some of the highest paying physical therapy assistant jobs:

Job TitleAverage Salary
Home Health Physical Therapy Assistant$63,420
Physical Therapy Assistant Instructor$62,993
Pediatric Physical Therapy Assistant$61,739
Travel Physical Therapy Assistant$60,947
Outpatient Physical Therapy Assistant$59,372

Home health physical therapy assistants work with patients who require in-home therapy. They may also travel to different locations to provide therapy in a variety of settings.

Physical therapy assistant instructors work in academic settings, teaching students the skills and knowledge they need to become PTAs themselves.

Pediatric physical therapy assistants specialize in working with children, helping them to improve their physical function and mobility.

Travel physical therapy assistants work on a contract basis, traveling to different locations as needed to provide therapy services. This type of job can offer a great deal of flexibility and opportunity for adventure.

Outpatient physical therapy assistants work in a clinic or hospital setting, providing therapy services to patients who visit the facility for treatment.

highest paying physical therapy assistant jobs

Keep in mind that while these jobs may offer higher salaries, the competition for these positions may be fierce. It’s important to acquire the necessary education and experience to stand out from other candidates.

Ultimately, the highest paying physical therapy assistant jobs require specialized skills and knowledge. By investing in education and experience, PTAs can position themselves for success and maximize their earning potential in this rewarding career field.

Understanding the Salary Range for Physical Therapy Assistants

As we’ve discussed, physical therapy assistant salaries can vary significantly based on a variety of factors. It’s important for PTAs to have a comprehensive understanding of the salary range in order to make informed decisions about their career paths.

The salary range for physical therapy assistants typically falls between $30,000 and $60,000 per year. This range can be impacted by a number of factors, including experience, education, location, and type of employer.

Experience LevelAverage Salary Range
Entry Level$30,000-$40,000
Mid-Career$40,000-$50,000
Experienced$50,000-$60,000

As the table above demonstrates, experience plays a significant role in determining a PTA’s earning potential. Similarly, education can impact the salary range as well.

Location is another important factor to consider when it comes to physical therapy assistant salaries. Certain states and cities offer higher average salaries due to factors such as cost of living, job demand, and state-mandated minimum wage laws. It’s important for PTAs to research average salaries in their preferred location before accepting a job offer or relocating for work.

It’s also important to note that certain types of employers offer higher salary ranges than others. For example, hospitals and outpatient care centers typically offer higher salaries than home healthcare services. However, the specific job duties and responsibilities within each type of employer can impact the salary range as well.

In order to maximize their earning potential, PTAs should consider gaining specialized skills or experience in areas such as geriatric care or sports therapy. These skills can make a PTA more valuable to certain employers, leading to higher salaries.

Overall, physical therapy assistant salaries can vary widely based on a multitude of factors. It’s important for PTAs to have a comprehensive understanding of the salary range in order to make informed decisions about their career paths.

physical therapy assistant salary comparison

As the healthcare industry continues to grow and evolve, the demand for physical therapy assistants is expected to increase. This growth is expected to have a positive impact on PTA salaries in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapy assistants is projected to grow 33% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

This projected growth can be attributed to several factors, including an aging population and advances in medical technology that allow for more effective treatment of injuries and illnesses. As more people seek healthcare services, the need for physical therapy assistants will also increase, leading to a rise in salaries.

Furthermore, as healthcare providers continue to focus on preventative care and early intervention, the demand for physical therapy assistants in outpatient clinics and home healthcare settings is expected to increase. These settings typically offer higher salaries than other healthcare facilities, further driving up PTA wages.

Overall, the future looks bright for physical therapy assistants seeking to maximize their earning potential. By staying up-to-date on industry trends and expanding their skillsets, PTAs can position themselves for success in this growing and rewarding profession.

Physical Therapy Assistant Salary Trends

Now that we’ve explored the various factors that can impact physical therapy assistant salaries, let’s summarize the key takeaways:

Maximizing Your Earning Potential

In order to maximize your earning potential as a physical therapy assistant, it’s important to prioritize education and experience. Pursuing additional certifications or advanced degrees can open up higher-paying job opportunities, while gaining experience in specialized areas such as pediatric or sports therapy can also increase your value to potential employers.

Understanding Salary Ranges

It’s essential to understand the salary range for physical therapy assistants in order to negotiate fair compensation. The average salary for PTAs in the United States ranges from $40,000 to $65,000 per year, with factors such as location, experience, and type of employer playing a significant role in determining individual salaries.

Exploring Job Opportunities

As we discussed earlier, some physical therapy assistant jobs offer higher salaries than others. For example, PTAs working in skilled nursing facilities or home health care may earn more than those working in outpatient clinics or hospitals. It’s important to research different job opportunities and their corresponding salary ranges in order to make informed decisions about your career.

Keeping Up with Salary Trends

Finally, it’s important to stay up-to-date on salary trends within the physical therapy assistant field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of PTAs is projected to grow 33% from 2019 to 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth, coupled with increasing demand for physical therapy services, is expected to drive up salaries for PTAs in the coming years.

By prioritizing education and experience, understanding salary ranges and job opportunities, and keeping up with salary trends, physical therapy assistants can maximize their earning potential and build fulfilling careers in this growing field.

FAQ

Q: What is the average salary for a physical therapy assistant in the United States?

A: The average salary for a physical therapy assistant in the United States is $59,770 per year.

Q: Do physical therapy assistants earn different salaries based on their location?

A: Yes, the salary of a physical therapy assistant can vary based on the state and city they work in. Factors such as cost of living and demand for PTAs can influence salary differences.

Q: What factors can affect the salary of a physical therapy assistant?

A: Several factors can impact the salary of a physical therapy assistant, including experience, education, location, and the type of setting they work in.

Q: What are some of the highest paying physical therapy assistant jobs?

A: Some of the highest paying physical therapy assistant jobs include positions in hospitals, home health care services, and nursing care facilities.

Q: What is the salary range for physical therapy assistants?

A: The salary range for physical therapy assistants can vary, but typically falls between $47,000 and $72,000 per year.

Q: How is the projected salary growth for physical therapy assistants?

A: The projected salary growth for physical therapy assistants is expected to be positive, with an increasing demand for their services leading to potential salary increases in the future.

Q: Where can I find more information about physical therapy assistant salaries?

A: For more information about physical therapy assistant salaries, you can refer to industry reports, job websites, or consult with professional organizations like the American Physical Therapy Association.

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